I have a question for Lori Haney R.N. With regard to the very helpful and comprehensive information you provide on laser hair removal, I'm a little confused about what, in your view, is the most effective laser treatment: on the one hand you agree with your colleague's comment that "the Lumenis Lightsheer is the gold standard for hair removal" while in response to another question you indicate that the Alexandrite laser is "arguably the most effective, at least for lighter skin types".
I would be very grateful if you could clarify as I'm considering which of the two I should opt for.
Furthermore, I'm wondering if the Alexandrite laser is generally considered more painful due to a larger spot size.
Thanks in advance,
John
John
4/22/08
Hi John,
I'd be happy to better clarify our opinion on the two lasers. After re-reading my earlier responses, I realized this could be confusing and will make needed changes. We still believe the Lumenis Lightsheer Diode laser is considered the "gold standard" by us as well as many practitioners. The Alexandrite is also a good laser; however, the shorter wavelength makes this less appropriate for medium to darker skin types. The wavelength of a laser is extremely important when considering which laser is the most effective and safest for a particular skin type. We currently use the Lightsheer for skin types 1,2,3 and light to medium skin types 4. For those that are darker, we always use a long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser (Sciton) which has provided excellent outcomes. With regards to your question on discomfort, I can only really comment on what we use and our own patient feedback. I haven't found that spot size really makes much of a difference when it comes to discomfort. Usually, it's the fluence being used, how coarse the hair is, the patient's own pain tolerance, cooling mechanisms, and the speed (Hertz/repition rate) of the laser firing. Since I'm not sure what your skin type is, I would recommend the Lightsheer as a good place to start if your skin type is not considered a dark medium. It's good that you are asking questions and doing research!
5/2/08
I agree with Lori Haney. But I would add that some LightSheer models have a setting that allows for treatment of very dark skin types. However, I always inform these patients that they will likely require more treatments because I have to be more cautious with the energy level I use. All patients are told to strictly avoid sun exposure of the treatment area to maximize results and minimize complications.
5/3/08
Hi i am 18 years old and as a little kid i us to be hairy in the butt area. My skin type is a mediam tan but i have notice that i have dark spots hyperpigmention on my butt cheecks. I am plaing to get laizer hair on my butts cheecks and the upper area of the leg both front and back. What type of laizer should i get for my skin type. Thanks
5/5/08
Hi David,
This is not an uncommon area to treat for our male patients. Generally, the hair in this area tends to be very coarse in texture and oftentimes leads to ingrown hairs that present as bumps that are mistaken for acne lesions. When these ingrown hairs resolve or become irritated, they often leave hyperpigmentation (dark spots). Based upon your description of the hair, the area, and your skin type, we would recommend either the Lightsheer Diode laser and/or the long-pulsed Nd: Yag laser. The patients we are currently treating for the same condition have been receiving good outcomes on either laser. Sometimes a combination of both lasers (wavelengths) renders improved results. When finding a practitioner, be certain to ask what technology they use and what type of training the person doing the treatments has had. Also find out what expectations you should have for results and safety.
L. Haney
5/30/08
Having been a Certified Laser Tech for over 9 years, I have loads of experience with many lasers, including the Candela GentleLase (Alexandrite), and the Lumenis LightSheer Diode lasers. While most of my experience is with Candela lasers (6 yrs.), I've used many others, including Cutera's, Syneron's, Asclepion, etc, etc. The Alexandrite was, by far, the best laser, not only to use, but provided the best results. The only issues I ever had with this system was its' tendancy to overheat and the wonderful smell of burned hair. These can be helped with in room air conditioners, and smoke evacuators (although, the smell of burned hair sold many, happy clients on the effectiveness of the process...I call it aromatherapy). The LightSheer, on the other hand brings back memories of a two week period during which we were "allowed" to try it out on ourselves 7 or so years ago. The resulting pain and scarring are still felt on my leg, which could only withstand about a 6" strip of treatment before I made them stop. Need I say more???
5/31/08
Dear Ms. Golden,
You obviously have a long history with lasers and have much experience with the treatments delivered. As such, with all due respect, it is my opinion that when a patient suffers such an adverse outcome, it is almost always related to improper technique, inappropriate settings, lack of cooling/contact, or a contraindication for lasers. We have never had such a reaction with our Lightsheer. Thank you for your feedback.
L. Haney, RN, CMLSO