Laser hair removal is gaining momentum as the most popular aesthetic treatment on the planet. This service already boasts a market share of nearly $800 million, and its prevalence is growing for practical reasons: As treatment availability spreads and aesthetic technology continues to evolve, the need for the treatment itself appeals to a nearly universal audience.
Hair removal: A growing trend
Many patients across all demographics suffer from unwanted hair to some degree. And as energy-based solutions become more accessible, a rising number of patients are turning to medical aesthetics practitioners for their safe, effective, long-lasting hair removal technology.
But in a marketplace packed with hair removal options, which device should professionals choose? Read on for a rundown of three of the most popular devices available today.
Intense pulsed light technology (IPL)
During an IPL treatment, pulses of broad-spectrum light target pigment within the hair follicle. This photothermal effect essentially destroys the follicle and prevents regrowth.
IPL devices for hair removal: Downsides & drawbacks
As a result, IPLs are not always an ideal hair removal option across all skin types. Lighter skin types usually fare better, particularly if the patient also has darker hair.
IPL devices for hair removal: The verdict
Because of its unique technology, an IPL device is incredibly useful for a number of applications. Photofacials, for example, are excellent to treat the visible signs of aging, including sun damage and fine lines. As a rejuvenation device, the IPL has been touted as a clinic essential. However, its application for hair removal is effective mainly for specific skin types. If you plan to heavily market hair removal treatments to a broad spectrum of patients, other energy-based devices might be a better match for your needs – and the needs of your patients.
Overall, aesthetic practitioners will need to evaluate each individual patient and situation to be certain an IPL option is right for their treatment plan.
Nd:YAG laser devices
Nd:YAG laser devices like the MediYag use longer wavelengths than a number of other energy-based technologies, thereby allowing deeper penetration into the skin cells.
During a treatment, the YAG laser is absorbed by melanin within hair follicles, where it receives sufficient thermal damage to neutralize the follicle and disrupt future growth. Our Q-switched YAG laser works faster than other modalities, so it minimizes thermal effect and maximizes the photoacoustic effect.
The advantage of pigment-targeted efficacy means the laser will not damage surrounding tissue or blood vessels – it only destroys the necessary pigment particles. After the particles are destroyed, they are broken down and eliminated naturally via the body’s lymphatic system.
Where YAG laser devices fall short for hair removal
Nd:YAG aesthetic lasers are especially ideal for treating darker skin tones – with the logical caveat that the device is properly calibrated to the patient’s unique needs.
However, when it comes to eliminating finer hairs and/or treating lighter skin types, YAG laser devices may fall short. Since the laser works by targeting pigment, it cannot necessarily access lighter follicles with the same efficacy.
YAG laser devices for hair removal: The verdict
As effective as YAG technology can be, some practitioners may look for laser hair removal devices that treat all skin types more comprehensively. But that doesn’t mean every practice doesn’t need a YAG. NdYAG devices are superstars when it comes to hyperpigmentation and rejuvenation. Plus, it’s gold standard technology for tattoo removal – and since one in four Americans has a tattoo they regret, that treatment will be a staple on service menus for years to come.Diode laser devices
Diode lasers target melanin in the hair follicle, relying on the same thermal damage to destroy follicles that Nd:YAG lasers do. Similarly, diode lasers minimize damage to surrounding tissue, reducing risk of complications or discomfort. Diode lasers have the added advantage of reaching deeper than other devices (such as YAG lasers), allowing for better efficiency and superior results. It’s also effective for coarser hair, which reduces the potential need for additional treatments or multiple passes with the emitter. And because the technology combines high frequency with flexible fluence, Diode lasers are generally safe on every skin type, giving practitioners the ability to treat any patient.Diode laser devices for hair removal: The verdict
For many practitioners, a diode device is ideal for hair removal treatment. Its functionality is dedicated to that one specific indication, so the technology precisely and consistently delivers the best results.
Here at Medicreations, we’ve taken that advantage one step further with our MediDiode, which is designed to make treatments fast, safe, and easier than ever.
The MediDiode is designed for effortless operation; practitioners can simply pass the emitter over the treatment area in a paintbrush style rather than relying on awkward stamping motions. Plus, the MediDiode’s flexible features give aesthetic professionals the ability to treat any spot size on any skin type with ease.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to add laser hair removal treatments to your skincare clinic, or you simply want to increase hair removal treatment bookings, the MediDiode is probably the right pick for you. And since it’s from Medicreations, you’ll get complete training and educational resources included, plus the confidence of our industry-leading 2-year warranty.
