When it comes to finding the best system for laser hair removal in NYC, you have many laser systems to choose from. In part I of SKINNEY Medspa’s series on the different types of hair removal lasers you learned about the five most popular laser hair removal machines. In this, Part II of the hair removal lasers series, you will learn about the differences between each laser system to discern which laser system will work best for you.
<< Read Part I here.
Ruby Laser Hair Removal
Popular Ruby Laser System: RubyStar, Palomar E2000, EpiPulse Ruby
PROS of the Ruby Laser System: Because the Ruby laser has been around for so long, there is ample clinical research to support its effectiveness at permanent hair reduction. In addition, its slow repetition rate makes the Ruby laser one of the most tolerable of all the systems for laser hair removal.
CONS of the Ruby Laser System: Because the Ruby laser has been around for so long, many people consider it antiquated technology and opt for more current laser systems. The Ruby laser system has many constraints. It cannot treat darker skin tones. Slow repetition makes for longer treatment duration, so smaller treatment areas are ideal. Furthermore, the Ruby laser is not effective on light or grey hair.
The Ruby Laser System is Ideal for: Individuals with light skin tones who want to treat small areas of fine hair.
Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal
Popular Alexandrite Laser Systems: Candela, GentleLase, EpiTouch Plus, Cynosure Apogee
PROS of the Alexandrite Laser System: The Alexandrite is the fastest system for laser hair removal, making it ideal for treating larger areas. Its wavelength is longer than other systems, making it effective on a wider range of skin types, from light skin tones to olive skin tones. It works better on thinner hair than other hair removal lasers and can even treat individuals with light skin and freckles.
CONS of the Alexandrite Laser System: The Alexandrite laser system is more painful than other systems and can cause discoloration if used on patients with darker skin tones.
Alexandrite Laser System is Ideal for: The Alexandrite laser system works best on lighter skin tones and is ideal for larger treatment areas, such as the legs or the back.
Diode Laser Hair Removal
Popular Diode Laser Systems: SLP, F1 Diode, LightSheer, MeDioStar, SopranoXL, LaserLite, Epistar, Apex
PROS of Diode Laser Systems: Innovative laser technology decreases risk of epidermal damage by using a longer wavelength. Diode wavelengths may be customized to the needs of the patient. Rapid repetitions decrease treatment duration. Less trauma to the surrounding skin means shorter recovery times. More effective on coarse hair than other laser systems.
CONS of Diode Laser Systems: Diode laser treatments are typically more painful than other laser systems with slower repetitions. Newly introduced to the market, diode laser systems have less scientific research to back up its long-term effectiveness.
The Diode Laser System is Ideal for: Patients with light to tan skin. Ideal for treating larger areas quickly. Ideal choice for men wanting to remove hair from their back or chest.
Nd:YAG Laser Hair Removal
Popular Nd:YAG laser systems: Cynosure, Candela, GentleYAG, Medlite IV, Lyra, Sciton, Cutera
PROS of Nd:YAG laser systems: Does not target melanin, making it safe for all skin types, even dark skin tones. Its long wavelength means fewer pulses of energy are needed, making Nd:YAG laser treatments shorter and more comfortable than other laser systems with faster repetitions. The Nd:YAG is more effective than IPL treatments for removing unwanted body hair. Good for treating larger areas.
CONS of Nd:YAG laser systems: Nd:YAG is not as effective at removing fine hair as other laser systems and may require more treatments overall. In addition, while it is not the most uncomfortable laser system, it is not the most comfortable either.
The Nd:YAG laser systems is Ideal for: The Nd:YAG system is the hair removal laser of choice for individuals with dark skin tones. It’s large wavelength and ability to treat larger areas makes it ideal for removing leg hair and hair from the back.
IPL Laser Hair Removal
Popular IPL systems for hair removal: Aculight, Quantum, Vasculight, Epilight, PhotoDerm
PROS of IPL Laser Hair Removal: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) systems can be customized to the patient’s skin tone, treatment area, and hair type, making IPL laser hair removal optional for a broader range of skin types. IPL can target large areas, quickly
CONS of IPL Laser Hair Removal: While IPL systems are more customizable and approved for a wider range of skin types than other laser systems, they are not as effective as their Nd:YAG counterparts. In addition, IPL hair removal treatments are not recomended on skin with sun exposure because the IPL may exacerbate hyperpigmentation.
IPL Laser Hair Removal is Ideal for: IPL systems are ideal for individuals who are not good candidates for traditional laser hair removal. IPL works best on dark hair with light skin but treatments can be applied to a range of skin and hair types. Ideal for treating larger areas.
Laser Hair Removal NYC
The best way to find out which laser system will provide you with the best laser hair removal is to schedule a complimentary consultation with the hair removal specialists at SKINNEY Medspa. As NYC’s premier skin and laser spa, SKINNEY is the preferred provider of Laser Hair Removal in Manhattan and can help you discover which system will deliver the best results for your investment.
