LASER HAIR REMOVAL AND YOUR SKIN TYPE
Before starting laser hair removal, it’s important to know that there is a direct effect on which type of laser hair removal treatments you can have based upon your skin type. Skin types are categorized by the Fitzpatrick scale on a sliding scale between 1 and 6. In its simplest form, the Fitzpatrick scale is a way to classify how easily someone can get sunburn with Type 1 being the lightest of skin which never tans and always burns to Type 6 being a very dark skin tone which never burns.
Determining the right laser for your particular skin type and taking the time to understand the differences between lasers’s used for hair removal will ultimately lead to a better and safer outcome for you.
There are three accepted types of Class IV medical lasers for hair removal, Diode, Alexandrite and Yag. IPLs are used, however should never be mistaken for a laser and are less effective when you want a permanent hair removal treatment.
Below, we’ve provided a quick breakdown and identified pros and cons for each which may help you in making a more informed decision.
IPL :
IPLs as previously stated are not lasers. IPLs produce a broad spectrum of wavelengths (like a light bulb) and cannot be focused to a concentrated beam. Because a range of different wavelengths are dispersed at a variety of depths only some of these will be effective for hair reduction. IPL’s shallow penetration in comparison to a laser means that deeper, thicker hairs are not effectively treated.
DIODE:
The Diode produces a beam of highly concentrated light. The light emitted by the Light Sheer Diode is well absorbed by the pigment located in the hair follicles. During the procedure, the laser pulses for a fraction of a second, long enough to heat up the hair and significantly impede the follicles ability to re-grow. The Light Sheer system technology has proven effective on a wide range of hair colors, from blonde through auburn to brown and dark hair. And most important, Light Sheer systems can successfully remove hair from all skin types – from porcelain white through olive to dark brown complexions.
ALEXANDRITE LITE:
The Alexandrite laser is one that uses an alexandrite crystal as the laser source. The Alexandrite laser produces a specific wavelength of light and is considered a red light laser. The Alexandrite laser penetrates the skin 755nm (nanometers) deep and is suitable for skin types 1 through 4 and not recommended for darker skin types 5 and 6.
YAG:
The YAG is a long pulsed laser and penetrates the skin at 1064 nm. The physical properties of this laser allows it to penetrate deeper than the Diode or Alexandrite lasers, thus bypassing the upper layers of skin that contain higher levels of melanin darker skin types making the Alexandrite laser more suitable for darker skin types with very thick coarse hair.
In summary, there are two important things to remember. First of all, unfortunately laser hair removal does not work on light, grey or red hairs because of the melanin in the skin. Secondly, some laser professionals do not use lasers for hair removal treatments, they use IPL (intense pulse light) which is far less effective at getting rid of unwanted hair.
The best laser on the market is the Gentle Max Pro, as it has a dual wavelength – YAG for darker and deeper follicles plus the Alexandrite for lighter, more shallow hairs – allowing individuals of all ethnicities to be treated for laser hair removal.
Sanctuary Salon & Med Spa is the go-to day spa in Orlando, Florida for expert laser hair removal in Orlando. At our luxurious day spa in Orlando, we use the gold standard in laser hair removal with the Gentle Max Pro and the Luminus Light Sheer Diode.
Please call Sanctuary Salon & Med Spa today to schedule your complimentary consultation to begin your hair free tomorrow!
FAQs
Alexandrite 755nm lasers are the shortest, best used on lighter skin and thinner hair. Darker skin types need a longer wavelength to avoid the laser targeted the surface skin pigment rather than the hair follicle. This is why Nd:YAG 1064nm is the best and safest option for darker skin.
What is my skin type for laser hair removal? ›
The laser is attracted to the melanin, or color, in your hair follicles, so the treatment works best on an individual with dark, coarse hair and pale skin — the contrast helps the laser better target the hair follicles. That said, the Cynosure laser works well on all skin colors and types and almost every type of hair.
What is the difference between salon and at home laser hair removal? ›
Visiting a professional will give you access to better machines. These machines can offer better results than even the best at-home laser hair removal device. However, you might need maintenance appointments if you visit a professional. An appointment every few months or years can help you remain hair-free.
What skin tone is best for laser hair removal? ›
The best candidates for this type of hair removal are those who have pale skin and dark hair. The contrast between light skin and dark hair allows the melanin to be easily targeted. Blond, fine hairs cannot be targeted by the lasers and therefore, cannot be removed with this method.
What is the best laser for a 60 year old woman? ›
One of the best lasers for skin resurfacing, Fraxel Repair effectively treats deep lines and wrinkles, sunspots and age spots, uneven skin tone and texture, hyperpigmentation, scarring, and melasma. The laser is also renowned for producing long-lasting results.
Which hair removal laser is the most effective? ›
Studies consistently show that alexandrite laser devices can eliminate a greater percentage of hairs compared to other machines. Alexandrite is proven safe and highly effective for Fitzpatrick skin types 1-3, but those with deeper skin tones will do better with a different laser, such as the Nd:YAG.
What makes you a bad candidate for laser hair removal? ›
People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.
Who is not suitable for laser hair removal? ›
Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
- Are pregnant.
- Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
- Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
- Have keloid scars (raised scars).
- Have or have had skin cancer.
Grey and white hair as well as blonde and red hair both lack pigment therefore it is difficult for lasers to detect and treat. When a laser has no pigment to target it is harder to zap away the hair, thus making laser hair removal an ineffective treatment for grey hair.
Is it worth buying at home laser hair removal? ›
If an at-home laser works for you, it may be worth the investment, as it would be significantly cheaper to use at home than to continuously get treatments at the doctor's office. However, for best results, you would have to use the device fairly often, which may make it not all that different from shaving.
Downsides of At-Home Laser Hair Removal Treatment
The risk is especially high if you use a machine that's incompatible with your hair color and skin tone. You may also be prone to redness and irritation if you treat sensitive skin and delicate areas such as pubic hair.
What is the best option for laser hair removal? ›
What Are the Best Lasers for Hair Removal Treatments That Work?
- IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) IPL is often classified as a laser hair removal treatment, but it is not actually a laser. ...
- Diode Laser Hair Removal. ...
- Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal. ...
- Nd and LP Nd: YAG. ...
- Ruby Laser Hair Removal.
If your priorities are younger looking skin, no surgery and minimal recovery time, fraxel treatments may be the way to go. Fraxel treatments help facial tone and texture damaged from the sun or simply aging improve. In just one treatment you will notice younger looking skin without a dramatic change in your appearance.
Which laser is best for African American skin? ›
The most effective, and perhaps the safest laser for darker skin tones uses Nd:YAG laser technology. This laser creates wavelengths that go deep into the skin, effectively bypassing the pigmentation in the skin. So, it doesn't affect the melanin in your skin, or damage the surface layer.
Does your skin get lighter with laser hair removal? ›
Pigment changes.
Laser hair removal might darken or lighten the affected skin. These changes might be temporary or permanent. Skin lightening primarily affects those who don't avoid sun exposure before or after treatment and those who have darker skin.
Which laser treatment is best for skin? ›
CO2 laser resurfacing has been successfully used to treat wrinkles and scars as well as other benign skin growths such as warts, birthmarks, rhinophyma (enlarged oil glands on the nose), and other skin conditions. Recovery time with CO2 laser resurfacing is up to two weeks.
What skin type is best for laser? ›
In the past, laser treatment was only recommended for people with skin types I – IV at the highest. But thanks to advances in technology, Laser Hair Removal can now be effective for all types of skin. Its effectiveness on darker skin types, however, is still very much dependent on the quality of the laser being used.
What laser is best for skin texture? ›
Lasers like Fraxel®, Clear + Brilliant®, PicoSure®, MicroLaserPeel, and IPL are fantastic for tackling textured skin on the face.
What is the best laser for skin damage? ›
Ablative lasers are suitable for many types of sun damage lesions, even severe ones like deep wrinkles, loose skin and actinic keratoses. The Er:YAG or erbium laser creates less damage and is more precise than the CO2 laser. However, in expert hands, CO2 laser therapy can be more effective for skin rejuvenation.
