The different types of laser hair removal, which one is for me?
Are you considering laser hair removal but don’t know where to begin? Heard horror stories about a friend of a friend who got the wrong type of laser? Considering an at home device instead of an in-office treatment? Have you heard the myth that laser hair removal still isn’t suitable for darker skin tones?
There are so many types of laser hair removal treatments, and between the ‘home laser devices’ and in-office laser treatments, it can be hard to discern which laser treatment will be most effective for you and your skin care routine. Don’t worry, here at Aspire Beauty & Aesthetics, we’ve got your back, and we’re here to explain to you all the key facts.
Lets start with the basics, what is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal involves a laser emitting a light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, known as melanin. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages the hair follicles, which are small sacs in the skin that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth, leaving you silky smooth. At Aspire B&A, it’s a quick process, and for most is next to painless, depending on the area and personal pain threshold.
Now that’s covered, what are the different types of lasers?
There are many, but let's focus on the main ones.
Alexandrite laser:
The traditional laser, alexandrite has a medium penetration wavelength and works best on shallow, fair, fine hair, as it is extremely attracted to melanin and unsuitable for darker skin tones, as it can burn them.
Diode:
Diode lasers are an alternative to the alexandrite lasers, with a longer wavelength better suited to treating darker, thicker hair and not being as attracted to melanin, therefore being suitable for darker skin. The soprano A diode laser reduces pain by 60%.
Yag Laser (Nd-Yag)
This laser was designed to be used on darker skin, targeting hemoglobin instead of melanin. It has a longer wavelength than the Diode and is used to also treat varicose veins and spider veins.
IPL (Intense Pulse Light):
IPL isn’t actually laser hair removal, though it is often advertised as it. IPL is used by most at home hair removal devices. It does work, however is found to be less effective with results not lasting as long as true forms of laser hair removal, so while it might seem cost effective upfront, you’re probably better off getting real laser hair removal to save time and get long lasting results. That being said IPL is seen to be more effective for red and blonde hair.
The breakdown:
All skin types + medium or thick and dark hair: Diode Laser
Light skin + fine and light hair: Alexandrite Laser.
Red, gray or white hair: These cannot be removed with lasers or pulsed light.
We offer laser hair removal for all types of suitable hair here at Aspire Beauty & Aesthetics, located in hounslow. This is the perfect treatment for some selfcare this summer, feel free to contact us with any questions!