Is it okay to use 2 different lasers for laser hair removal treatment?

Question

I went to a medspa that told me I have type IV skin and they are going to use the YAG for the first 3 treatments(until my hair is thinner) at increasing intensities and then the Candela laser for the rest. They said the reason is to minimize the risk of burning my skin and because you cannot increase the intensity as much on the Candela? I don't know if this is effective and if I should continue treatment at the facility. What do you think?

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

While it is often necessary to use more than 1 laser to achieve best outcomes when performing laser-assisted hair removal, it is difficult to predict when it will be time to change devices.That decision is one which is typically made after evaluating the thickness and color of the hair and the underlying skin type.  Laser-assisted hair removal is a medical treatment which requires advanced decision-making in some situations; it should not be performed by simply following a standard formula.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about laser hair removal, laser hair reduction.Yes, sometimes it is necessary to use more than one kind of laser for laser hair removal.To be sure, see two or more licensed and board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have these treatments.I hope this helps.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

At Ethos Spa we have two type of FDA cleared lasers.  In our experience in laser hair removal it had shown that no one laser can be used on all skin types and colors. Darker skin types need a particular YAG laser for a safe and effective treatment. At Ethos Spa we use the Alexandrite laser for lighter skin types, which is considered the gold standard in laser hair removal.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I have 3 different hair removal lasers at my med spa. It's often advantageous to combine different lasers for patients. Sometimes a hair follicle may respond better to one type of laser and not to another; yet, the follicle next to it is the complete opposite. I think it's a great idea to have a combination of treatment laser options available. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Is it okay to use 2 different lasers for laser hair removal treatment?

Answers (4)