Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: 5 Laser Hair Removal Techniques

26 February 2015
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An excess amount of hair in unwanted places can be bothersome, embarrassing, and leave you feeling unattractive. If you've been thinking about getting rid of pesky hair through laser removal treatment but don't know which method is best, consult the list below to find out which technique might be best for you. 

Pulsed Light (IPL)

This technique is also trademarked as Ultimate Light, and is performed using one of many different machines. Unlike many other kinds of hair removal treatments, it is able to treat specific chromophore ranges. It also reduces hair by up to half after only a couple of treatments. Though it cannot treat white hairs, pulsed light is effective on every skin type and color. Another benefit many patients find attractive is that it's not even remotely painful. There are very few patients who experience any side effects, and those who do only report temporary lightening or darkening of the skin.

Diode Lasers

Diode laser systems also use a variety of machines. Diode laser procedures are fairly new, but studies have found them to be very effective, as the lasers possess a longer wavelength than most other systems. That said, the Diode method does have its drawbacks. Only those people with lighter skin types (I, II and III) are guaranteed candidates for the procedure, while those with darker skin may want to undergo different methods.

Nd: Yag Lasers

All skin and hair colors can be treated with the Nd: Yag type of laser procedure, though there is not yet enough evidence to suggest that the hair removal will last any longer than six months. Those seeking an inexpensive short-term solution will find the Nd: Yag lasers ideal, but should also be aware that many patients often report the lasers to be quite painful.

Alexandrite Lasers

Alexandrite lasers possess a shorter wavelength than most other laser systems, and as such often produces side effects such as lightening or darkening of the skin. This specific procedure is best for those with very fair skin, but there is virtually no difference in the effectiveness of hair removal between alexandrite lasers and pulsed light treatments.

Ruby Laser

Much like Alexandrite lasers, Ruby lasers have a short wavelength in the deep red part of the visible light spectrum, and therefore are often responsible for side effects in patients with darker skin. Those with lighter skin will probably fare much better and run fewer risks of temporary pigmentation change. Contact Drs. Young & Wouters Laser Hair Removal for more information.