What Types Of Lasers Are Used For Laser Hair Removal?

Tired of dealing with razor burn, ingrown hairs and having to shave every day? Ready to wave goodbye to the days of tweezing, waxing and threading? If you’re looking for a more permanent solution when it comes to hair removal, laser treatments are your answer! But before you lie down on a bed of lasers inside an at-home spa, let’s take some time today to discuss the types of lasers used for laser hair removal.

Types Of Lasers For Laser Hair Removal

Alexandrite Laser

Common brand names:Candela GentleLase, Cynosure Apogee, and EpiTouch Plus

The Alexandrite laser’s main advantages are that it has a shorter wavelength system compared to other types of lasers, and can treat hair that is medium to light brown. Those with light skin are the best candidates, given that it can result in discoloration on darker skin types.

Ruby Laser

Common brand names: Palomar E2000 and RubyStar

The Ruby laser, one of the oldest types of lasers used in hair removal, is best suited for those with light or fine hair and fair skin. Compared to the newer laser technologies, the Ruby laser can be more time-consuming because it only covers a smaller area of skin at a time.

Diode Laser

Common brand names: LightSheer, SLP 1000, LaserLite, and SopranoXL

The Diode laser is one of the newest and most commonly used lasers today. It is designed for fair to medium skin tones. Compared to other lasers like the Alexandrite or Ruby, the Diode laser has a longer wavelength of light, reducing the risk of skin damage than lasers with shorter wavelengths.

Nd: YAG Lasers

Common brand names: Cutera CoolGlide, Cynosure Elite, Altus Cool Glide, and Candela GentleYAG

The Nd: YAG laser is the preferred laser for dark hair on darker skin. One advantage of the Nd: YAG laser is that it uses the longest wavelengths out of all four lasers, meaning it has the most potential to destroy hair at the very bottom of the shaft.

Each of these lasers has been FDA-approved for laser hair removal. They are proven effective, fast and safe methods for successful hair removal and permanent hair reduction. Your dermatologist will select the laser most appropriate for you depending on your hair and skin type and area of the body.

Remember: Compared to shaving or waxing, all four types of lasers for hair removal achieve longer-lasting results with less frequent maintenance.