Types of Laser Hair Removal
Hair Removal Journal is brought to you by American Medical Media, in conjunction with our Advisory Board, and our medical affiliates. With new technologies rapidly emerging, tedious or painful removal methods such as shaving or electrolysis can now be left behind. The purpose of Hair Removal Journal is to provide patients interested in hair removal, specifically with laser hair removal, a credible resource to research laser hair removal.
Laser Hair Removal, when first introduced in the late 1990’s, was limited to light skinned individuals with dark hair. Efficient Laser Hair Removal was produced by Alexandrite and Diode lasers. Dark skinned individuals could not use these lasers for effective hair removal because early generation lasers were unable to distinguish between skin pigment and hair follicles, which led to the burning of those with darker skin. Today this has all changed. The advent of the new laser line, the YAG, and the re-invention of the IPL system has afforded excellent results for individuals with dark skin and dark hair.
What kind of lasers does Ideal Image use?
While many laser hair removal centers use a “one-laser-fits-all” mentality, Ideal Image has multiple FDA-approved lasers onsite. In that way, our experienced practitioners can select the best laser for customizing an individual’s treatment to their specific hair color and skin type.
Who performs laser hair removal?
All laser hair removal treatments are performed by one of Ideal Image’s well-trained medical professionals. Before performing any treatments, each practitioner is extensively trained – not only at Ideal Image’s state of the art training facility and experienced staff, but also by the manufacturer of each laser utilized at that location. Additionally, a licensed medical doctor serves as a medical director of each individual location and oversees all treatment and competency of the medical staff.
Types of laser hair removal
The Ruby Laser is the oldest type of hair removal laser and works best for fine and light hair. The Ruby Laser cannot be used on patients with darker skin, including people with tanned skin. This and other factors, such as the relatively small area that they cover, have made Ruby lasers increasingly less popular for laser hair removal in recent years.The Alexandrite Laser is the fastest of the laser types and is good for treating large body areas in patients with light-to-olive complexion. This is one of the most widely used lasers for hair removal.The Diode Laser is most effective for darker skin types and is less effective on lighter, finer hair. It covers large areas and has fast repetition rates, allowing brisk treatment of large body areas.
Side effects from laser hair removal include:
Incomplete hair removal or regrowth: Some hair may be resistant to the laser treatment or may regrow after treatment. Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation). This is usually a temporary condition, but in rare instances, is long lasting or permanent. Lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation). This is of special concern with people who have darker skin. Laser hair treatment is more successful on fair skin, but darker skin also can be treated. Blistering and scarring. These rarely occur. Changes in the skin texture. These rarely occur. Crusting or scabbing. If this occurs, it’s temporary.
