Laser hair removal is the most popular procedure in our salon, and from October 15 it will be available in Moscow! Regardless of the time of year, hair removal is always in high demand. In this article we want to compare the effectiveness of different types of lasers, their advantages, and application features. Knowing these properties will help you choose a laser for hair removal and get the desired result - smooth skin - comfortably and safely.
Let's evaluate existing lasers through several parameters:
1. Versatility when working with different skin phototypes;
2. Duration of the effect of hair removal;
3. Painlessness and comfort during the session;
4. Safety (probability of burns);
5. Time to complete the procedure.
There are 3 main types of lasers used in the beauty services market: alexandrite, diode and neodymium. Each type has its own advantages and nuances in operation, on which the effectiveness and comfort of hair removal will directly depend.
Comparative table of parameters of alexandrite lasers
| Name | CYNOSURE Picosure | Duetto Quanta System | CYNOSURE ELITE | Motus AX Moveo | Candela GentleLase Pro-U | IRRADIA TRIPLE |
| Device type | Picosecond laser | Laser system including alexandrite laser | Multifunctional device including an alexandrite laser | Alexandrite laser | Long-pulse alexandrite laser | Alexandrite laser |
| Wavelength(nm) | 755 | 755 | 755 | 755 | 755 | 755 |
| Frequency Hz) | 1-10 | 1-10 | Until 3 | 1-10 | To 10 | Up to 5 |
| Pulse duration (ms) | 2-10 | 2-100 | 2-50 | 2-300 | 0,25-100 | 2-50 |
| Light spot size (mm) | 15-50 | 8-14 | 3-15 | 5-20 | 6-18 and 20-24 | 7-12 |
| Radiation density (J/cm²) | 1-50 | Up to 25 | 25-100 | Up to 160 | Up to 560 | Up to 50 |
| Cooling system | Water+air+semiconductor cooling | Built-in cooling | Cold air | Built-in cooling | Using cryogen/air cooling system | Closed air-water system |
| Maximum tip cooling temperature (°C) | 5 | 15 | 15-30 | 15 | — | 4-15 |
| Electrical network requirements | 220 V, 50/60 Hz 20 A | 230 V, single phase 50/60 Hz 20 A | 200-220 V, 30 A | 230 V, 50/60 Hz 20 A | 230 V, single-phase 50/60 Hz 20 A | 220 V, 50 Hz, 15 A |
| Dimensions (cm) | 117x62x138 | 90x48x93 | 104x38x64 | 95x51x83 | 108x50x99 | 93x69x37 |
| Weight, kg) | 70 | 85 | 82 | 90 | 108 | 60 |
| Device price | 8.3 million rubles | 6.3 million rubles | 4.6 million rubles | 5.9 million rubles | 2.6 million rubles | 950 thousand rubles |
Types of lasers used in dermatology and cosmetology
Translation by Marina Pavlichenko
Use of Lasers in Dermatology: Laser Hair Removal. Dr.Hanish Babu
The first lasers used for skin surgery were continuous wave lasers such as the carbon dioxide laser and the argon laser. They have been widely used to treat birthmarks such as hemangioma. Although birthmarks were removed, the side effect of scarring was unacceptably high with these lasers. New lasers that have been developed over the past two decades are relatively safe and much more effective than older versions.
Lasers are classified depending on the active medium used. The characteristics of wavelength, pulse duration, and absorption of various skin chromophores determine the clinical application of various types of lasers in dermatology.
Types of Medical Lasers
Lasers can be classified by the type of active medium used to generate photons. There are the following main types of medical lasers:
- 1. Gas lasers: CO2 laser, Argon laser, copper vapor laser, etc. These are the first lasers to emit a continuous beam of light.
- 2. Solid state lasers: Ruby, Nd:YAG (neodymium laser), Er:YAG (erbium laser), KTP (neodymium laser), Alexandrite, etc. These lasers operate in pulsed mode.
- 3. Liquid lasers: Dye lasers. Pulsed dye lasers are lasers with very short pulse durations and long intervals between each pulse. The energy of laser radiation from these lasers is quite high
- 4. Diode Lasers: Diode lasers have several wavelengths suitable for soft tissue procedures.
Lasers used in dermatology
- 1. CO2 Lasers: The laser beams from these lasers are absorbed by the water contained in the skin, hence are used for skin rejuvenation, removal of benign skin tumors such as warts, xanthelasmas, mucous cysts, cherry angiomas, leukoplakias and are used for surgical cutting.
- 2. Nd:YAG lasers: The active medium is neodymium in yttrium aluminum garnet, wavelength 1064 nm. Nd:YAG lasers have little absorption in melanin and hemoglobin and are used for laser hair removal, laser vein treatment, laser photorejuvenation, laser acne treatment and are used in laser skin surgery.
- 3.Q Switched Nd:YAG Lasers have strong absorption in dark ink pigments hence are used in laser tattoo removal.
- 4. Er: YAG lasers have a wavelength of 2940 nm; their working medium is erbium in yttrium aluminum garnet. It is absorbed by water into the skin and is used for skin resurfacing, laser photorejuvenation and skin growth removal.
- 5. Ruby lasers have a wavelength of 694 nm and contain chromium ions in aluminum oxide as the working medium. Ruby laser light has very strong absorption in melanin and black-blue ink pigments. This is especially useful for tattoo removal. Laser hair removal and removal of pigmented (dark) skin lesions.
- 6. Potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser: Nd:YAG laser at the second harmonic of radiation and a wavelength of 532 nm, a laser with absorption in hemoglobin and melanin, is used to remove vascular and pigmented skin lesions.
- 7. Alexandrite lasers: 755nm wavelength, pulsed laser used to remove blue, black and green tattoos, epidermal and dermal pigmentation such as melasma.
- 8. Diode lasers: with different wavelengths. The absorbing chromophores are melanin and hemoglobin in the skin. Diode lasers are used for laser hair removal, treatment of varicose veins and laser photorejuvenation.
- 9. Dye lasers contain organic compounds in solution (often rhodamine) as the active medium and have an effective wavelength between 400 - 800 nm. Absorbing chromophores are hemoglobin and melanin pigment. Dye lasers are useful in the treatment of vascular lesions and non-ablative skin rejuvenation.
- 10. Excimer lasers contain compounds of xenon, krypton and argon, target protein and water molecules, and have wavelengths between 190-350 nm. Excimer lasers are useful in the treatment of psoriasis and vitiligo.
- 11. Fractional lasers are the latest lasers that produce microscopic target areas and affect specific depths in the skin. It is especially useful for treating acne, wrinkles, sun damaged skin, melanosis skin, etc. The wavelength is in the range of 1550 nm, and the absorbing chromophores are water in the tissue.
It is important to know which laser is suitable for your skin type and specifically for which cosmetic procedure. The effect of laser radiation on different areas of the skin depends on the wavelength, power density and temperature characteristics of the laser. It is also important to know how lasers work in dermatology before choosing the most suitable one.
IRRADIA TRIPLE
Laser hair removal using the Swedish-made IRRADIA TRIPLE device is highly effective and acts directly on hair follicles that are subject to destruction. In this case, the device affects not only the follicles that are in the active growth phase, but also the dormant bulbs, which prevents the reappearance of hairs on the treated skin. IRRADIA TRIPLE has a number of advantages compared to modern devices:
- The duration of the hair removal procedure is minimal, which is achieved due to the size of the light spot and the high frequency of laser flashes.
- Laser hair removal procedures using the IRRADIA TRIPLE device are characterized by increased safety, since its operation has been tested by clinical trials and approved by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation.
- Epilation with this device is characterized by the absence of painful sensations, and thermal damage to the skin by the tip is prevented by a unique cooling system.
- The IRRADIA TRIPLE laser device can be used on any part of the body, including sensitive areas. In addition, hair removal with this device is equally suitable for both women and men.
How does the device work?
The principle of operation of the laser is based on alexandrite stone. It is with the help of it that the beam is fixed, the length of which reaches 755 nm and the diameter is about 1.8 cm.
It is worth knowing that the alexandrite laser will be effective when performing laser hair removal on light skin with dark hairs. Laser beams are absorbed by melanin in the cells, and as a result of intense heating, the hair follicles die. At the same time, nearby cells remain untouched, since the laser beam in this case acts in a targeted manner.
Candela GentleLase Pro-U
According to many specialists who have used this device in their work, Candela GentleLase Pro-U is the most powerful and effective of modern alexandrite lasers. A distinctive feature of this device is its convenient intuitive interface and the ability to adjust the pulse duration. Among the characteristics of Candela GentleLase Pro-U are the following:
- Effective hair removal of any type, even the lightest ones.
- You can use decorative cosmetics immediately after the procedure.
- The procedure is absolutely painless.
- There is no need for a rehabilitation period after the session.
- The effect of the hair removal procedure is noticeable immediately after the first procedure.
IMPORTANT! GentleLase Pro-U allows you to select the size of the anatomical spot required for laser treatment and adjust the radiation flux density. In addition, the device menu allows you to select a cooling system that is more suitable for a given skin type.
Before alexandrite hair removal
You should prepare for the hair removal procedure in advance. Approximately two weeks before the procedure itself, certain preparatory measures should be taken, regardless of the type of laser device:
- During this time, the hairs in the area that will be treated with the laser can be shaved. Other methods of removal are prohibited.
- You should stop taking any steroids, as well as antibiotics and tranquilizers. All these drugs increase the sensitivity of the skin, which means that the appearance of pigments on the skin cannot be ruled out.
- During this period, you must completely avoid any type of tanning.
Motus AX Moveo
The Motus AX Moveo laser hair removal device from the Italian company DEKA has been proving its effectiveness for many years. Alexandrite laser using the unique Moveo technology allows you to effectively remove hairs of different shades and thicknesses on any skin phototype.
ATTENTION! Unlike other lasers, this device can be used even on skin after sunbathing.
The Motus AX alexandrite laser has a number of features that make it special among devices of this level:
- Hair removal with Motus AX is carried out as quickly as possible; it is capable of treating an area of 100x100 mm in 10-20 seconds.
- The contact cooling system of the tip allows you to treat any, even the most sensitive and hard-to-reach areas of the skin, without overheating it.
- The technology of the device allows procedures to be performed safely and painlessly.
- An hair removal session with the Motus AX device will provide the client with only pleasant tactile sensations.
Already the first procedure with the Motus AX device will allow you to process and eliminate up to 50% of unwanted hair, although after a few days the client may notice hair growth. However, this process is observed because the hairs begin to emerge from the hair openings. After 1-17 days they will begin to fall out spontaneously.
ATTENTION! This procedure can be repeated after 1-1.5 months, and the full course is 5-6 hair removal sessions.
Neodymium laser
The procedures performed with its help are not painless. The wavelength is much higher than that of other species - 1,064 nm. The beam of light penetrates very deeply, affecting the lower layers of the epidermis. The energy is dissipated into surrounding tissues, warming them up. The duration of one pulse is up to 100 ms.
Risk – the laser not only acts on melanin, but “glues” the blood vessels, depriving the follicle of nutrition.
Peculiarities:
- Low power - you have to increase the manipulation time and course duration.
- Helps eliminate vascular networks on the skin.
- Recognized as effective for eliminating red and blonde hair tones.
- Lots of side effects.
- High price.
CYNOSURE ELITE
Alexandrite laser CYNOSURE ELITE is a multifunctional system that allows you to effectively remove unwanted hair on any skin phototype. The gentle effect of the device on the skin makes it possible to use it even on the face and bikini area. One of the main advantages of this device is the wavelength of the laser radiation, which can vary from 755 to 1064 nm. This technology allows you to remove up to 98% of hair in the active growth phase. A wide range of light spots makes it possible to remove hair from hard-to-reach areas of the body with pinpoint precision. This procedure is available at any age and at any time of the year.
REFERENCE! In addition, the CYNOSURE ELITE device ensures the safety and speed of laser hair removal sessions. This device is also used for coagulation of blood vessels on the face or legs, treatment of age spots, and is even effective in the fight against acne and age-related skin changes.
Thanks to these properties, one visit to a cosmetologist will allow the client to solve several skin problems at once.
How does the procedure work?
To carry out the procedure, it is advisable to have hairs 1-2 mm long (this length is achieved 1-3 days after shaving). You should not let your hair grow for 2 weeks, as this may lead to less effectiveness.
Before the procedure begins, the patient is placed on a couch. The specialist explains exactly how it will take place, what contraindications there are after exposure and what skin care is required during this period. The specialist also clarifies whether there have been any visits to the solarium in the last 2 weeks, because this is a contraindication for the procedure.
The unpleasant sensations from the laser are minimal: cryogen is sprayed and a slight chill is felt. When epilating, there is a smell of burnt hair, this is normal.
Some patients report more acute sensations in the bikini area, where there is a lot of hair and it has a tougher structure. For increased sensitivity, special painkillers are used.
At the end of the procedure, only “stumps” of hair will remain, which will begin to fall out on their own within 4-9 days after laser treatment.
Duetto Quanta System
Next in my rating is the unique alexandite laser Duetto Quanta System. The Italian laser hair removal system Duetto Quanta System is a unique combination of alexandrite and neodymium laser beam, which allows you to effectively remove hair and forget about it forever.
If necessary, you can use one of the specified lasers or their combinations according to the Mixed Technoogy system. You can also change the device attachments that are included with the equipment. The device is equipped with a built-in contact skin cooling system (SKIN COOLER), which provides reliable protection against burns and overheating of the skin during hair removal.
The device has the following advantages:
- This device allows you to perform fewer hair removal procedures compared to other alexandrite lasers.
- Duetto Quanta System effectively removes even gray and vellus hairs.
- Unique laser technology allows procedures to be performed even on tanned skin.
- A convenient and intuitive interface allows you to customize the device to suit any skin type and any hair structure.
- The effectiveness of hair removal with this device allows you to carry out procedures much less frequently compared to other lasers.
CYNOSURE Picosure
The leader in my rating was a new product from the American company CYNOSURE - the picosecond laser Cynosure PicoSure, a unique invention of aesthetic medicine with a PDA certificate. This device is mainly intended for removing tattoos of any complexity and on any area of the skin, however, it is also used with equal effectiveness for epilation of unwanted hairs.
The safety of exposure to picosecond pulses allows the laser to be used in the area of the eyelids, eyebrows and lips. The device is equipped with a unique cooling system that combines the effects of water and air when treating the skin, which minimizes pain during procedures.
REFERENCE! Picosecond pulses, which are 100 times shorter than nanosecond pulses of previous generations of devices, act on the skin not thermally, but mechanically, without damaging it.
This allows the device to be used for skin rejuvenation procedures. In addition, such a system significantly reduces the duration of the procedure to several minutes.
Important parameters
- laser type;
- frequency;
- light spot size;
- radiation density;
- pulse duration;
- cooling;
- tip cooling temperature.
Laser type
An Alexandrite laser may have additional parameters that will make its operation more comfortable, and the use of such a device will become more widespread.
Frequency
This indicator indicates how many oscillations the device makes in one second. The wider the frequency range, the more powerful the device. Accordingly, it works better and removes hair.
Light Spot Size
Depending on the size of the spot, the speed of the procedure on large areas of skin also increases. At the same time, in hard-to-reach places, in folds and on sensitive skin, the spot should be smaller in diameter.
Radiation Density
The speed of the procedure depends on the radiation density. The higher the density, the less time you will have to process one area, and the effect on dense, thick hairs will be stronger.
Pulse duration
The impact on the hair follicle, which will be destroyed by the laser, depends on the duration of the pulse. A sufficiently long pulse (over 100 milliseconds) can damage the dermis. However, it all depends on the area of influence. Thus, lasers with a larger pulse duration range are more versatile.
Cooling
Since the device heats up, it needs constant cooling, especially for its tip, which is in contact with the skin. The cooling system works constantly. It depends on how painful the procedure will be.
Tip cooling
Assumes maximum tip cooling temperature range. Indicates the extent to which the surface of the device that comes into contact with the skin can be cooled.
Rating of alexandrite lasers
- Cynosure PicoSure
- Duetto Quanta System
- CYNOSURE ELITE
- Motus AX Moveo
- Candela GentleLase Pro-U
- IRRADIA TRIPLE
So I introduced you to my rating of alexandrite lasers, which are considered the most popular in modern cosmetology. Which one to choose is a personal matter for everyone; I just analyzed their work. But before you decide to buy an alexandrite laser for hair removal, weigh the pros and cons, study the contraindications and nuances of use. I hope my rating will help both cosmetologists in choosing a device for work, and their potential clients when visiting a salon.
A visual table of the characteristics of different lasers:
| Alexandrite | Diode |
| AlexandriteThe device is perfect for fair-skinned people | DiodeUsed for light-skinned and dark-skinned people |
| Alexandrite has an effect on excess hair of any color | Diode Effects exclusively on dark growing hair. Is ineffective against emerging gray hair |
| Alexandrite Tanning is not recommended 10 days before the upcoming removal of excess hair | Diode Tanning is possible before and after this session |
| Alexandrite Course consists of 5 - 8 planned sessions | Diode course most often consists of 8-10 procedures |
| AlexandriteThe use of anesthesia gel during the session is not required | DiodeThe use of gel for pain relief during the procedure is mandatory |
| AlexandriteHair loss occurs after 5-7 days | DiodeHair falls out after about 2-3 weeks |
| AlexandriteThe cost of this course is more expensive, but requires fewer sessions | DiodeRequires a larger number of procedures, but the price of one session is lower |
