Which laser is best for Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal has quickly become one of the most popular cosmetic treatments worldwide. Clients seek a long-lasting solution to unwanted hair, and laser technology offers a safe, effective way to achieve smooth skin. But not all lasers are created equal.

This guide explains the different types of lasers used for hair removal, why Alexandrite and YAG are preferred, and what makes Candela the top choice for professionals and clients alike.

Which laser is best for hair removal?

Different Types of Lasers Used for Hair Removal

Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in hair follicles with concentrated light energy delivered in short pulses. This energy damages the follicle, and with repeated damage, reduces hair growth over time. Various lasers differ in wavelength, pulse duration, and cooling technology, affecting their suitability for different skin types and hair colours. Let's explore...

Alexandrite Laser

The Gold Standard - the only laser you'll find used in medical settings for hair removal. The Alexandrite laser operates at a wavelength of 755. It emits a red light that is highly absorbed by melanin, the pigment in hair. It is the wavelength which is the most absorbed by melanin out of all of the options. This makes it very effective for treating light to olive skin tones with dark hair - including very thin and light hairs (not white/grey/blonde/red - see Electrolysis). The Alexandrite laser is known for its fast repetition rate, allowing for quick treatment of large areas such as legs and backs, and its ability to clear thin hairs which other lasers simply can't. Alexandrites are limited when it comes to tanned or darker skin tones and pose a high burn risk if this is not managed well by the practitioner.

Nd:YAG Laser

Often coming as part of an Alexandrite laser system in order to treat all skin tones - The Nd:YAG laser uses a longer wavelength of 1064. This deeper penetration makes it safe for darker skin tones (fitzpatrick 4-6) because it bypasses the melanin in the epidermis and targets the hair follicle directly. It is less absorbed by melanin, reducing the risk of skin damage or pigmentation changes. Nd:YAG lasers are ideal for patients with tanned or dark skin. It's limitations come when the client has both dark skin but very thin hair. These hairs may be too difficult to treat with any laser.

Diode Laser

Diode lasers operate at 800-810nm and offer a middle ground between Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers. They work well on lighter skin tones with thick dark hair as this laser is less absorbed by melanin than the alexandrite so struggles with thin hairs, & doesn't have the advantage of bypassing the upper layers like the YAG for darker skin tones. Diode lasers are hugely limited by their inability to safely treat much darker skin tones, often leading to painful, hot, and ineffective treatments with a higher risk of burns for these clients due to the melanin absorption.

Ruby Laser

Ruby lasers have a wavelength of 694nm and were among the first lasers used for hair removal. They are most effective on very light skin with dark hair but have largely been replaced by Alexandrite and diode lasers due to slower treatment times and higher risk of side effects.

Electrolysis (not laser but needs a mention)

Electrolysis is a method of hair removal that uses electrical currents to destroy hair follicles, preventing future hair growth. This technique involves inserting a fine probe into each hair follicle and delivering a short burst of electricity, which effectively disables the follicle's ability to produce hair. Unlike other laser hair removal methods, electrolysis is suitable for all skin types and hair colours, making it a versatile option for those seeking long-term hair removal solutions with white, blonde, grey or red hair which lasers can't touch due to the absence of melanin.

Why Alexandrite / YAG systems are the Best Choice for Laser Hair Removal

Choosing the right laser depends on skin type, hair colour, and treatment area. Alexandrite / Nd:YAG lasers cover the broadest range of needs, making them the top choices for most clients.

Effectiveness Across Skin Types

• Alexandrite works best on light to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types I to III). Its high melanin absorption means it targets hair follicles efficiently, resulting in faster and more effective treatments.

• Nd:YAG suits darker skin tones (types IV to VI) because its longer wavelength penetrates deeper without damaging the skin surface. This reduces the risk of burns and pigmentation changes.

  
  

Versatility in Hair Types and Areas

• Alexandrite lasers excel in treating fine to medium hair on large body areas due to their speed.

• Nd:YAG lasers handle coarse, thick hair well and are often used on sensitive areas like the face and bikini line.

• Both lasers can be adjusted for pulse duration to target different hair thicknesses (as low as 5ms for thin hairs vs 100ms for most diodes) and energy levels (boasting the most power per shot), allowing customisation for individual client needs which most other lasers do not.

  
  

Safety and Comfort

Alexandrite/YAG systems work alongside Cryo Cooling devices without the need to apply gel for maximum client comfort. Most clients prefer this to the gel & cooling tip that most diodes offer. These features minimise side effects such as redness, swelling, and pain.

Why Candela Is the Leading Brand in Laser Hair Removal

Candela has built a strong reputation in the laser hair removal industry by combining advanced technology, safety features, and user-friendly designs. Here’s why Candela stands out:

Proven Technology and Innovation

Candela’s Alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser systems, such as the GentleMax Pro found in our Bicester clinic, integrate both wavelengths in one device. This dual-wavelength approach allows practitioners to treat a wide range of skin types and hair colours with a single machine, increasing efficiency and patient satisfaction.

Clinical Results and Reliability

Numerous clinical studies support Candela’s effectiveness in permanent hair reduction. The company’s devices are widely used by dermatologists and medical spas worldwide, reflecting their reliability and consistent results.

User-Friendly Interface and Training

Candela machines feature intuitive touchscreens and preset treatment parameters, helping practitioners deliver safe and effective treatments.

Practical Tips for Choosing Laser Hair Removal

If you are considering laser hair removal, here are some practical tips to help you make the best choice:

• Consult a qualified professional trained to at least level 4 standard (the standard set across all Glow Clinics) who can assess your skin type and hair colour to recommend the best course of treatment for you

• Ask about the laser technology used. Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers cover most needs safely and effectively (found. in all Glow Clinics)

• Inquire about cooling methods to ensure your comfort during treatment.

• Check the provider’s experience with Candela or similar high-quality laser systems.

• Understand the treatment plan, including the number of sessions and expected results.

  
  

Summary

Laser hair removal offers a long-term solution to unwanted hair, but the choice of laser technology matters. Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers provide the best coverage for different skin tones and hair types, combining effectiveness and safety. Candela leads the market with innovative devices that integrate these lasers, advanced cooling systems, and proven clinical results. When selecting a laser hair removal provider, look for those using Candela technology to ensure a comfortable, reliable, and successful treatment experience.