When it comes to laser hair removal, there are different laser technologies such as the diode and the Alexandrite that have their specific features. It can become difficult to decide about the best laser hair removal technology. However, consulting skincare professionals and having enough information about each hair laser removal type can help you choose the right laser technology. In this article, you will read more about the functionality of the diode and Alexandrite laser hair removal, their advantages and disadvantages, and their effectiveness for each skin type.
Understanding how laser hair removal works
Before starting to talk about Alexandrite and diode laser hair removal, it is better to know how laser hair removal works. In the laser hair removal method, the laser targets the hair pigment and by heating the follicles, destroys it which results in permanent hair reduction over time. However, it is vital to consider that not all lasers use the same wavelength, and it is an important feature that makes a difference in the effectiveness of laser hair removal methods like diode and Alexandrite.
What is a diode laser?
The diode laser hair removal uses a wavelength of 800-810 nm to penetrate to the skin depth for destroying hair follicles. Diode laser is best known for its effectiveness on various skin types especially darker skin types.
Advantages of diode laser hair removal
Diode laser hair removal is one of the most common laser methods with the following advantages:
- Broad skin type effectiveness: As it mentioned earlier, diode laser hair removal is an effective method for different skin tones and types (light and dark), specifically darker skin tones.
- Precise hair targeting: As diode laser penetrates the skin deeply, it can more precisely target hair follicles.
- Less risk of skin pigmentation issues: For darker skin tones specifically, there is less risk of pigmentation issues compared to other laser types.
Disadvantages of diode laser hair removal
Like any other hair removal method, diode laser hair removal has some possible disadvantages that are listed below:
- More laser treatment sessions may be required: To get a permanent hair reduction result using diode laser hair removal, more sessions may be necessary based on your skin tone.
- Painful procedure: Some people believe that diode laser hair removal is more painful than Alexandrite. However, this can be a personal feeling and it is not the same in all people who use diode laser hair removal.
What is an Alexandrite laser?
The Alexandrite laser uses a shorter wavelength of 755 nm. This laser hair removal method is more effective for lighter and finer hair, and it is effective for individuals with light to medium skin tones.
Advantages of Alexandrite laser hair removal
Here are the most significant advantages of Alexandrite laser hair removal:
- Fast treatment: Due to the large spot size of the Alexandrite laser, it can treat larger areas like legs and chest quickly.
- High effectiveness for lighter skin tones: Alexandrite laser is an effective hair removal technology for people with lighter skin types as it can target light and fine hair easily.
- Less painful: Due to the shorter wavelength the Alexandrite laser uses, it is less painful for some patients compared to the diode laser.
Disadvantages of Alexandrite laser hair removal
Alexandrite laser hair removal has also some disadvantages that should be considered before deciding about the best laser hair removal method for your skin.
- Not a suitable option for darker skin tones: Due to the shorter wavelength that Alexandrite uses, it is not recommended for individuals with darker skin tones to go for this laser technology as there is the possibility of hyperpigmentation and burning issues.
- Less effective on coarse hair: The Alexandrite laser may not perform well on thick and coarser hair.
Diode vs. Alexandrite: Which is better for your skin type?
One of the important factors for choosing the suitable laser hair removal method is to know about your skin type and the effectiveness of each method.
For light skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-III)
If you have light skin with dark hair, Alexandrite laser is the best choice for your skin. It works efficiently and quickly along with fast results and less downtime and discomfort.
For darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI)
If you have dark skin, diode laser hair removal is the best choice to get rid of unwanted hair permanently. As this method penetrates deeply into your skin due to its longer wavelength, it only targets the hair follicles and does not damage the surrounding skin. Therefore, there is less chance of discoloration and burn.
Diode vs. Alexandrite: Which is more effective for coarse or fine hair?
Another important factor to be considered before going for diode or Alexandrite laser hair removal is to ensure your hair thickness.
For coarse hair: If you have thicker body hair, especially in areas like underarms or the bikini line, the longer wavelength of the laser is more helpful and effective. Hence, diode laser hair removal is a better choice for thicker hair.
For fine hair: If you have fine and lighter body hair on areas like the face or arms, it is better to go for the Alexandrite laser as it has a shorter wavelength and can be more effective for light and fine hair.
Diode vs. Alexandrite: Which is faster?
Alexandrite laser has a larger spot compared to diode laser hair removal which makes it a faster option. Therefore, the Alexandrite treatment duration for each session takes less time, while diode laser treatment can take longer to be done each session. Regarding the number of required sessions to see permanent hair reduction or removal for each laser hair removal treatment, diode laser, or Alexandrite, it completely depends on your skin type and hair color. If you choose the right laser hair removal method considering your skin and hair color, you will see the best results between 6 to 8 sessions in both Alexandrite and diode laser hair removal.
Side effects of diode and Alexandrite lasers
Both diode laser hair removal and Alexandrite laser have minimum side effects such as redness, irritation, and swelling after each session of treatment, but they disappear some hours after the treatment. However, some long-term side effects may happen in specific cases. Generally speaking:
- Diode laser hair removal has fewer side effects, especially for individuals with darker skin colors.
- Alexandrite laser may cause some pigmentation changes for individuals with darker skin tones.
Conclusion
The decision between diode laser and Alexandrite laser hair removal depends on your hair color, skin tone, and your treatment goals.
If you have darker skin color or thicker body hair, it is highly recommended to choose diode laser hair removal.
If you have a lighter skin tone with dark or fine body hair, it is better to go for the Alexandrite hair removal method which is a fast and effective hair removal procedure for your skin and hair type.
Besides all the mentioned information, it is always of high priority to consult with a skincare professional who is expert and experienced enough to provide you with the right consultation and help you choose the best hair removal method based on your skin color and hair color and thickness. Purify Skincare Clinic in Melbourne is always here to help choose the right hair removal method. Just schedule an appointment with our skincare experts to find the best hair removal solution for your body.