Which Laser is the Best for Skin Rejuvenation, IPL or Diode?

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is not technically a laser, but is very effective at treating mild pigment problems and redness. IPL alone does not have a major impact on skin texture unless it is combined with another energy source. An example is the ELOS SRA applicator combining IPL and radiofrequency.

The diode laser is used primarily for hair removal. It is quite effective but cannot be used in darker skin types. It is not typically used for skin rejuvenation.

The best laser for skin rejuvenation depends upon many factors, including your skin type, tolerance for downtime, and your specific goals in having the treatment. It could take quite some time to explore all the possibilities. If you would like to share I would be happy to make specific recommendations.

 

I have been using medical lasers since 1985, and your question has been popping up all the time.  Whatever laser or light therapy a practitioner seems to have, they will tell you that their technology is the best for you, often claiming it is the best for nearly everything.  In reality, technique is usually more important than the machine.  This is where you need to see examples of the consultant's work and look at their experience. Each machine out there has its strengths and limitations....and so do its users.  A good question to ask is, "what do we do if your treatment doesn't work?"  Hopefully you will get a response with something other than, "Let's do it again!"