There are many types of lasers that are used for hair reduction and hair removal. Thus, it can be difficult to understand which type of laser would be best suited for you. You should consider the laser machine based on your skin type (colour), and how quickly you want to see results. Generally speaking, the more basic lasers are cheaper treatments which produce slower results. The more advanced laser treatments will result in in quicker and more noticeable results.
The Ruby laser is the oldest type of hair removal laser but is now somewhat outdated. It can only be used on small areas and cannot be used on those with tanned or dark skin.
The Alexandrite laser has a slightly longer wavelength than the Ruby laser, which means it can be used on a wider range of skin tones, although it is still not suitable for use on darker skin types. The high laser repetition rate also means it can be more painful. For darker skin, the Nd:YAG Laser is more suitable to use. However, it also has weaker melanin absorption, which means it requires more treatments to see results. It is less effective on fine hair.
Today, one of the most modern and commonly used laser systems today is the Diode laser. It is suitable for fair to medium skin types, and can even be used on darker skin types.
How does the diode laser work?
The laser targets the pigment melanin located in the hair follicle. The pigment then absorbs the light and the energy is converted to heat, which in turn weakens the hair follicle. The hairs in the active growing phase are affected, and their damage leads to delayed hair regrowth. With the diode laser, multiple follicles are targeted at a time ,making it very effective on large body areas. The hairs will begin to fall out about a couple of weeks after treatment. The damaged hair follicles do not produce hair, and many of them are permanently destroyed. Some follicles will rebuild as part of the body’s natural healing process, and they will need to be treated again.
Compared to other laser systems, the Diode laser has a longer wavelength allowing for safer and deeper skin penetration. Treatment is quicker and more effective, as large areas of skin can be treated at any one time. Another benefit is that there is less risk of epidermis (skin) damage and therefore recovery after each treatment is faster. Each laser treatment leaves you with less and less hair and you will gradually notice the difference after each treatment.