The main difference between hair removal devices is the lasers they work with: most often it is alexandrite or diode, less often neodymium. Each has its own wavelength and target. Alexandrite (755 nanometers) affects the melanin of the hair, diode (810 nanometers) can destroy follicles, and neodymium (1064 nanometers) affects the vessel that nourishes the hair follicle (it disrupts this process).
The two most popular devices are Candela GentleLase Pro-U (Alexandrite) and LightSheer Duet (LED). Ideal patients for hair removal with these machines are those with white skin and dark hair. They are both effective and give excellent results, but the procedure is different - it’s up to you to choose.
View on Instagram
Operating principle of the alexandrite laser
The laser affects cells containing a sufficient amount of melanin (the dark coloring pigment on the skin, hair and hair follicles). The energy of the beam is absorbed by the hair follicle, then it is heated and destroyed. Additionally, under the influence of heat, capillaries are sealed, providing nutrition and hair growth.
This effect prevents the appearance of vegetation for several years. Before hair removal, a specialist diagnoses the skin and hair for the quantitative content of pigment in them, as well as how deep the hair follicle is located. Based on the data obtained, the length of the beam and its intensity of impact on the treated area are selected.
If there is a small amount of pigment in the hair or if the skin is dark, the procedure is not effective.
Alexandrite used in the laser creates a beam with a diameter of 10-18 mm, which allows you to reduce hair removal time to 30-60 minutes (depending on the treated area and the density of vegetation). To relieve painful symptoms from the heat generated, the device has a built-in specialized system for cooling the skin.
The laser beam is capable of affecting bulbs that are in the active phase (approximately 1/3 of their total number), which are at rest and remain unaffected. Therefore, it is necessary to repeat the procedure 5-7 times with a break of 30-40 days to completely eliminate hair in the desired area. It is recommended to carry out hair removal in spring and winter, when the skin does not tan.
Where did the alexandrite laser come from?
The States are considered the birthplace of the device; it was there that more than 20 years ago they began to carry out developments in the field of application of the new device. It is based on a laser made of chrysoberyl or alexandrite. It took scientists several years to obtain stunning results. The technology began to be officially used in the field of cosmetology, classical and aesthetic medicine.
The principle of operation of the laser is such that the light beam is absorbed by the pigment in the skin or hair. Transformation of the flash into thermal energy avoids affecting healthy areas of the skin.
Areas that can be treated with laser
Hair removal using an alexandrite laser is the safest and most effective. Thanks to this, this procedure can be performed on almost all areas of the skin.
Permitted areas for laser treatment:
| Part of the body | Zones |
| Face | Mustache growth area |
| Beard growth area | |
| Cheeks | |
| Torso | Bikini area |
| Armpit area | |
| Stomach | |
| Breast | |
| Back | |
| Upper limbs (arms) | Shoulder |
| Forearm | |
| Brush | |
| Lower limbs (legs) | Hips |
| Shin |
Before carrying out the procedure, you need to familiarize yourself with its contraindications and disadvantages.
Peculiarities
The procedure is painful . The degree of sensitivity during hair removal with an alexandrite laser depends on many factors.
- Firstly, from the venue. For example, in the bikini area and underarms, the skin is more delicate, and therefore sensitivity is higher. The most pain-free area is the legs.
- Secondly, pain depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle. It is better to carry out the procedure in the middle of the cycle. Then the perception will be more tolerant.
- Thirdly, individual sensitivity. It all depends on the human body and its pain threshold. Cooling with air, water, or cryogenic spray may be used to reduce pain during the procedure.
The Candela alexandrite laser is the most modern modification of lasers of this type.
It differs from others in the speed of the procedure, a large number of options and a long pulse duration. This device has two types of cooling to protect the epidermis - refrigerant or air, which is its distinctive feature. For more information about the Candela alexandrite laser, watch the video:
Using an alexandrite laser for hair removal is very effective and has many positive reviews. Among the advantages, patients highlight:
- speed of the procedure;
- smoothness of the skin;
- getting rid of ingrown hairs;
- no irritation.
However, the disadvantages of the procedure are:
- painful sensations;
- high cost due to an unexpected number of sessions;
- possible ineffectiveness as a result of hormonal fluctuations.
Did you know?
In addition to hair removal, laser devices are used to remove pigmentation, treat acne, and remove vascular tissue.
Pros and cons compared to other methods
The Alexandrite laser (hair removal should be carried out only in trusted salons) has pros and cons when compared with other hair removal methods (sugaring, waxing, using an epilator).
| Advantages | Flaws |
| When the procedure is performed by an experienced specialist and modern equipment, no pain is felt. The safety of the method is also guaranteed. | To completely remove hair from the skin, repeat procedures are required. The amount depends on the skin type and the amount of pigment. And also from individual changes in the phase of hair growth. |
| The device can be adjusted according to the amount of pigment in the hair (brown or black). Gray hair is not removed. | After treatment, “surviving” hairs may remain. |
| The bulbs are not pulled out from the epidermis, but destroyed, so the integrity of the skin is preserved. | During the period of skin restoration, the use of specialized cosmetics is required. |
| Alexandrite creates a light beam with a diameter of up to 20 mm, which reduces the procedure time. | The high price of not only the course, but also one-time procedures. The cost pays off only after a full course of hair removal (provided it is carried out correctly). A repeat may be required after a few years. |
| The laser can be used on major areas of the body, with the exception of the ears and eyes. | Gray and blond hair is not removed. Also, do not use hair removal if you have a tan or dark skin (possible burns). |
| During hair removal, the skin is rejuvenated and pigmentation is eliminated. | If the specialist is inexperienced or due to the use of low-quality equipment, burns, abrasions and incomplete hair removal may occur. |
| With a properly designed course and high-quality procedures, hair stops growing for several years. | The procedure has contraindications, which you need to familiarize yourself with before starting hair removal. |
| Short preparatory and recovery period. | After the procedure, visiting solariums and sunbathing is temporarily prohibited. |
Even a one-time use of a laser allows you to achieve smooth skin for 1-2 months.
Don’t miss the most popular article in the section: Plasmolifting of the face - what it is, how it is carried out, results, photos before and after the procedure.
Indications for use
Hair removal using an alexandrite laser is indicated in the following cases:
- increased amount of facial hair in females;
- impossibility of depilation, sugaring or hair removal using a machine, due to the presence of contraindications or increased sensitivity of the skin;
- when hair grows under the skin;
- presence of light skin and dark hair. Which worsens the appearance even with a small amount of vegetation;
- increased hair growth due to hormonal imbalance;
- Removal of not only hair on the skin is required, but also removal of pigmentation.
Additionally, this procedure is used if it is impossible to visit salons frequently. Hair removal using an alexandrite laser eliminates hair growth for at least 30 days.
Does alexandrite laser have side effects?
The laser interacts quite well with the skin. Most patients at the beauty salon do not experience any discomfort after the procedure. But there are cases when, due to inattention and negligent adherence to safety precautions, a woman may experience side effects.
Usually there is slight swelling in the area of the affected area, sometimes a burn with blisters forms. In addition to this set, pain is felt. Fortunately, all symptoms do not require special treatment. To improve the general condition, apply clean, cool compresses, and for quick healing, you can lubricate the sore spots with Bepanten.
Contraindications
Alexandrite laser can be used after eliminating contraindications to this type of hair removal.
Prohibitions on the procedure:
- herpes and other infectious diseases on the skin;
- inflammatory processes in the treated area;
- diabetes;
- the period of bearing a child or feeding him breast milk;
- colds;
- taking antibiotics;
- tumor formations of a benign or malignant nature;
- predominance of gray hair in the treatment area;
- tan or dark skin;
- varicose veins, when removing hair on the legs;
- a large presence of pigmentation, as well as warts or moles;
- violation of the integrity of the skin (scratches, cuts);
- the presence of hormonal imbalance (menopause, period after childbirth or miscarriage);
- malfunction of the thyroid gland;
- an allergic reaction to ultraviolet light or the gel used (used to cool the skin and increase effectiveness);
- violation of blood composition and pathology of the cardiovascular system;
- adolescence (due to hormonal instability during this period);
- epilepsy and other diseases accompanied by voluntary muscle contraction.
For women, it is recommended not to epilate during menstrual flow.
Possible consequences
Alexandrite laser (hair removal may be accompanied by a negative reaction) can cause side effects if the rules of use are violated.
For example:
- when using faulty equipment or if the specialist is inexperienced, burns and incomplete hair removal may occur;
- inflammation of the hair follicle, develops when skin care rules are not followed during the recovery period;
- white spots in the presence of dark skin;
- an increase in the number of age spots when visiting a solarium or sunbathing during the recovery period;
- painful procedure when using old equipment;
- red spots or dots due to vasodilation;
- allergic skin rashes accompanied by itching;
- impairment of the quality of vision when not wearing glasses during the procedure.
There may be a temporary burning sensation and dryness of the skin of the treated area.
If infectious diseases, tumors or pathologies of the cardiovascular system have not been excluded, then an exacerbation of the disease occurs.
How does laser hair removal work?
Epilation takes place in 3 stages. The final result depends on the correct preparation for the procedure, the doctor’s manipulations and skin care during the recovery period.
Preparation
The preparatory stage for the procedure begins with choosing a clinic with qualified specialists and high-quality equipment.
Step-by-step preparation:
- Visiting a therapist and dermatologist to exclude the presence of hidden contraindications.
- Passing diagnostics in the salon to determine the type of skin, determining the darkness of the hair and the depth of the bulb. Additionally, a specialist conducts a laser reaction test for a possible allergic reaction (use of one-time irradiation).
- 4 weeks before the manipulation, avoid visiting the solarium and sunbathing. They are contraindicated throughout the course. In the presence of bright sun, it is necessary to use creams with protection from ultraviolet rays. It is recommended to start the procedure in late autumn, when the summer tan has faded. According to average indicators, the course is completed by the summer season.
- For a month, manipulations to remove hair along with the bulb are excluded. Otherwise, the follicle is injured, which will affect the effectiveness of the procedure and increase the likelihood of side effects.
- Avoid aggressive cosmetics 3 weeks before hair removal, especially at the treatment site.
- Depending on the area of hair removal, it may be necessary to remove hair in 7-10 days using a razor (other methods are prohibited). Their length at the moment of the procedure should be 3-5 mm. More often, hair removal is required, also using a razor, 24 hours before the procedure. This nuance needs to be discussed during the initial visit to the salon.
- Avoid procedures that increase the likelihood of injury to the skin in the treatment area.
- Stop using cosmetics for 3 days to keep your pores free.
Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages 48 hours before going to the salon. If you have had a cold or taken antibiotics. Then the break from recovery to hair removal should be at least 10 days.
Progress of the procedure
The procedure is carried out in the salon by a specialist and consists of the following steps:
- The client sits down or lies down in a chair.
- You need to wear specialized glasses on your eyes. This will protect the melanin in the iris from damage if accidentally hit by a laser beam.
- The specialist treats the area with a disinfectant and anesthetic composition. If necessary, a gel with an anesthetic effect is used.
- Based on preliminary diagnostics, the equipment is configured to the required parameters.
- The area is being processed. Depending on the area, the procedure can take from 15 to 90 minutes. The process may be accompanied by a slight burning or tingling sensation.
- Finally, a protective moisturizer is applied to the skin.
During the manipulation, the patient is required to remain calm and not make movements. Hairs on the treated area fall out 7-10 days after the procedure. Hair removal is repeated 30-40 days after the appearance of new vegetation from the awakened bulbs.
Skin care after the procedure
After the procedure, it is important to properly care for the treated area. Otherwise, the effectiveness of hair removal will decrease and side effects may occur.
The duration of the recovery period is 10-14 days.
Care tips:
- water procedures are prohibited for up to 36 hours (even wiping);
- physical activity is limited due to the risk of increased sweat production. It may irritate the follicles;
- swimming, baths and saunas are excluded for up to 14 days;
- If there is bright sun, use a cream that protects against UV rays;
- Do not pull out any remaining hair. They will fall out on their own. Otherwise, damage to the skin with subsequent tissue inflammation is possible;
- Remove new vegetation in the treated area only with a razor. Other procedures are contraindicated. Repeating manipulations earlier than after 30-40 days is prohibited;
- avoid tight clothing (except if facial hair was removed) as it can injure the treated area;
- if there is irritation on the skin, use bepanthen or its analogues.
After the procedure, you should not take antibiotics or hormonal medications for 14 days. To moisturize the skin, use moisturizing cosmetics prescribed in the salon and drink more clean water.
How much effect is there?
Alexandrite laser (epilation allows you to get rid of hair for 30-50 days after the first procedure) helps to remove excess body hair painlessly and for a long time, after completing the full course. The bulk of vegetation is eliminated when processing the zone. The remainder falls out within 14 days.
New hairs appear after the bulbs “awaken”. This process is individual for everyone. It can take from 14 days to 2 months. To eliminate them, repeated manipulations are required. The course ends after complete cessation of hair growth. On average, the frequency is 7 epilations. Further growth of vegetation is possible after 5-7 years or will not resume.
Cons of alexandrite laser hair removal
Despite the fact that this device is universal and can permanently get rid of unwanted hair on the body, this method also has its drawbacks.
The disadvantages of laser hair removal with an alexandrite laser include:
- the procedure will not be effective when removing light hair
- if you remove hair in a sensitive area (armpits or bikini area), slight redness may occur immediately after the procedure, but it goes away on its own
Types of lasers for hair removal - which laser is better?
To eliminate unwanted vegetation, you can use not only an alexandrite laser. Their differences are in wavelength, penetration depth and beam diameter.
What is alexandrite laser hair removal? Advantages and disadvantages.
Types and features of lasers:
| View | Peculiarities |
| Diode | Allows you to remove hair from any skin type. If you have hair with a hard structure, it makes it softer and more invisible. Fine hair is eliminated immediately. |
| Neodymium | Used to remove hair on dark skin (tan or dark complexion). The beam does not destroy melanin, but hair cells that are in the active phase. Additionally, it eliminates capillary mesh. |
| Ruby | Capable of removing only dark hair on light skin tones, as well as tattoos and increased pigmentation. It is less effective when compared to the alexandrite laser. |
It is not recommended to choose the type of laser yourself and insist on choosing it in a salon.
The appropriate option is determined by a specialist according to the indications, and the presence of contraindications is also taken into account.
The effectiveness of the hair removal method
Of all existing types of lasers, alexandrite is the most effective. It removes up to 95% of unwanted hair. In the place where the laser beam reached, the follicle will never form, which means new hair will not grow.
The only rule is that this applies to hairs that are in the active growth stage at the time of hair removal. And the laser pulse will not affect hair that is in the phase of loss or “hibernation”. These hairs will fall out along with others. But after some time, new roots will form in the follicles, and the vegetation will appear again.
In just one session, alexandrite hair removal allows you to get rid of 20-30% of unwanted hair. In order to achieve absolutely smooth skin, a course of 3-8 procedures will be required. Sessions are held at intervals of 20-45 days. Their frequency depends on individual characteristics: the color and structure of the hair, its quantity and growth rate. It is easier and faster to remove dark hair on fair skin with an alexandrite laser.
After completing the course, you can forget about excess hair for at least 6-12 months. And for some, for life.
The laser hair removal method is equally effective for both women and men. In addition to body hair, it can be used to get rid of age spots and spider veins, as well as rejuvenate the skin.
The effectiveness of laser hair removal depends on:
- depilated area;
- time of year (the most suitable period is winter);
- hormonal levels;
- equipment quality, etc.
How much does hair removal cost in salons?
The price of a procedure using an alexandrite laser varies depending on the treatment area, salon level and region:
| Processing area | Minimum price (in rub.) | Maximum price (in rub.) |
| Face | 5800 | 8100 |
| Mustache | 1400 | 1900 |
| Armpit area | 3100 | 7200 |
| Shoulders | 4500 | 9100 |
| Forearm | 3900 | 7800 |
| Breast | 7100 | 9300 |
| Stomach | 3100 | 5900 |
| Bikini area | 3900 | 6800 |
| Deep bikini | 5900 | 10100 |
| Hip | 8800 | 14700 |
| Shin | 6900 | 12300 |
The Alexandrite laser allows you to get rid of vegetation for a long time, even after a one-time procedure. Before carrying out it, it is recommended to check the presence of contraindications not only with specialists in the salon, but also with a therapist. The procedure takes place without any pain. If the skin is treated correctly, hair removal has no side effects.
Author: Kotlyachkova Svetlana
Article design: Anna Vinnitskaya
