ND YAG; is it as effective in the long run as other lasers?

Question

I have a light olive skin tone with darker areas (Bikini and underarms). My skin tone is close to Mika Kunis'. I have black/dark brown hair everywhere. The center I picked used a Candela Gentleyag. According to a few sources online, the YAG lasers are not as effective when it comes to long term results as other lasers. I know every laser will require follow up sessions, I'm just worried that with the YAG laser, more hair would come back faster thus requiring more sessions. is that the case?

Adaeze Okeke, MD · Answer

Hi, while the Nd:YAG or 1064nm wavelength is generally used for darker skin, there are many people with olive and brown complexions on whom the Alexandrite or 755nm wavelength will work better. Also it is possible that one person can have different skin types on their body. Sun exposed areas like forearms and legs for example may be significantly darker than skin on the torso. We have had great success in using both wavelengths on the same person. Find a provider who is willing to work with you. You can ask for a test spot of a lower setting on the 755 wavelength and see if that works for you. Good luck!

Dennis Gross, MD · Answer

We have seen great results using the Candela GentleMax Yag laser and as a few others mentioned below, it is critical to choose the right laser for your skin type to avoid doing more harm than good. Unfortunately, those with lighter skin and darker hair will generally have the most success with laser hair removal, however like I mentioned, we have seen really incredible results with this laser so I would recommend sticking with it for at least a few treatments.

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! It is important to choose the laser that is best suited for your skin color. The Nd:YAG laser works best for all skin tones, which is why it is referred to as the gentle YAG in some cases. When treating darker skin it is important to start out at a lower fluence (energy level) to make sure the skin reacts fine before setting higher parameters. As long as the technician is carefully choosing the parameters that are appropriate for your skin tone then the treatment should be effective. For more information please feel free to look at our website!

Dinesh Maini, MBChB · Answer

We have used a different YAG laser called the Lyra since 2004 and to be fair it does not have this issue over thousands of patients.
I think there have been issues when treating at too low a fluence but I think in good hands there is no need to be concerned.
An Alexandrite laser is out of the question for your skin type.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

If you have a darker skin type, there is no other safe choice than a 1064 laser. The laser is effective but might need more treatments than an Alexandrite laser. You have to do what is safe for your skin type.

ND YAG; is it as effective in the long run as other lasers?

Answers (5)