The article discusses the most common question in laser hair removal: whether to choose an Alexandrite laser or a Diode laser for laser hair removal. We will look at the advantages and disadvantages of both types and how to make an informed decision as customers.
Alexandrite Laser – The “Gold Standard” in Laser Hair Removal
Alexandrite lasers are probably the most widely used worldwide. The first Alexandrite laser was created in 1970, and it took scientists about 40 years to develop an effective laser system for hair removal purposes. So, what are the characteristics of the Alexandrite laser?
- Wavelength 755 nm – the gold standard in laser hair removal, extremely suitable for treating fine and thin hairs, unlike the diode laser;
- Effective for I, II, III and IV skin phototypes – from light to more matte skin and when treating larger areas of skin;
- High speed – one of the fastest lasers, making it suitable for use on large areas of the body.
The laser light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair (the pigment in the hair), (the pigment in the hair), uses the hair as a conductor, with the goal of reaching the hair follicle. It, in turn, is heated to a high temperature and is successfully destroyed. Here we note a small detail – only hair follicles that are in the anagen phase are successfully treated. This is why several procedures are needed for long-term hair reduction and reduction in a given area.
Given that the melanin in the hair is used, alexandrite lasers are not recommended for use on tanned and dark skin, because there is a real chance of a severe skin reaction. The good news is that we at LAVEDY laser studio will successfully treat your skin if it is darker in color thanks to the best laser for dark skin – Nd:Yag from the Cynosure Elite+ laser system. here.
Let’s return to the topic of alexandrite lasers – procedures with this type of laser are performed simultaneously with a Cryo cooling system. – a jet of cold air helps to quickly cool the heated skin and contributes to overall comfort during the procedure. An advantage of alexandrite lasers over diode lasers is the ability to use this non-contact Cryo system, rather than a contact and cooling gel, as is used with diode lasers.
What do clients say about the sensation during laser hair removal – minimal discomfort – most clients report a slight stinging sensation or a sensation like a slight snap of a rubber band. Of course, the team of aesthetic specialists at LAVEDY laser studio will take care of your maximum comfort.
In Bulgaria, Alexandrite lasers are less common than diode lasers due to their higher cost, leading to fewer salons and centers being able to invest in them. This situation can be positive for customers, as choosing Alexandrite laser treatments allows for quicker comparisons among available laser hair removal studios.
Diode Laser: Effective Technology or Marketing Gimmick?
Diode lasers have recently been introduced in Bulgaria as a technology that can effectively treat hair even on tanned skin. However, there are questions about their efficacy and whether they are simply a marketing ploy. You can decide for yourself what to believe in after completing this article.
The diode laser is advertised as suitable for all skin types, effective on thick and dark hair, but less effective on light and thin hair. This is because the wavelength (808-810 nm) is not as strongly attracted to melanin as with alexandrite lasers. An effect is observed only in the first 2-3 procedures. However, when the hairs lighten and thin, the diode laser does not destroy them effectively. Unfortunately, sometimes with poor selection of parameters, paradoxical hypertrichosis can be observed – increased hair growth in a given area – i.e. the energy with which the hairs are treated is not enough to destroy the hair root. It only heats up and this in turn stimulates increased growth in the treated area. In this situation, why start laser hair removal first with one type of laser and then have to switch to a second type of laser – choose your laser hair removal location well and invest both your time and money wisely.
Before using diode lasers, a cooling gel is applied to the skin, which raises hygiene questions when the same contact head is used for multiple clients in sensitive areas.
Safety measures should be prioritized when opting for diode laser hair removal.
Conclusion
We would summarize that Alexandrite lasers are the better choice for individuals with light skin, due to their high power and capability to destroy finer and lighter hair. Although diode lasers may offer lower initial investment costs, they could result in longer-term issues with hair regrowth and the need to switch to a different laser type for effective treatment.
If you are still unsure, come in for a free consultation with our aesthetic specialists today to discuss the two types of lasers. We will also choose the one that is right for you and together we will decide how many treatments you will need for a wonderful result of soft and smooth skin.
