Alexandrite 755 nm laser or LightSheer DUET for fair skin with dark coarse hair?

Question

I have fair skin (between Type I and Type II on the Fitzpatrick scale) and dark black, coarse hair. I have never done laser hair removal before. I went for consultations in two separate clinics (both are certified and their specialists are well reputed for laser hair removal treatments). The first suggested Alexandrite 755 nm laser, while the second suggested LightSheer DUET. I am treating my underarms, full legs and Brazilian. Please help me. Which one is more effective in my case?

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Jennifer. We use the Lightsheer Duet for our laser hair removal clients with your skin type and it works very well. In general, Diode devices like the Lighsheer are the best for laser hair removal. Alexandrite can also work well with your skin type. More important is the skill and experience of your provider. It is also important to understand that multiple treatment sessions will be needed for optimal results. Make sure you are under the care of an experienced provider. Best wishes.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Jennifer. For light skin and coarse dark hair, either option will likely work well for the first 1-2 visits. But as treatments proceed, the coarse hair will disappear and fine and medium hair will need to be treated.  This is the time when the alexandrite will vastly outperform the Lightsheer Duet (if the practitioner uses the large spot size).We love the Lightsheer.  The problem is that the Duet uses a very large spot size with a maximum fluence (energy) of 10 j/cm2.  Most patients with your skin type are treated between 30-40 j/cm2 on the diode laser.  The proper question if you decide to go with the practice using the Duet is how many treatments they plan to do with the large spot.  If they plan on using the large spot size the whole time, then you are better off with the Alexandrite.  To be safe, choose the Alexandrite option from the beginning.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Diode, alexandrite and yag lasers work best for hair removal. I typically have patients do every 4 weeks for the first 3 times and then every 4-6 weeks for 3 times after. It will take a series of treatments and some people need treatments to maintain. See an expert in laser hair removal for best results. Best, Dr. Emer

Douglas J. Fife, MD · Answer

The Alexandrite 755 and LightSheer will both work for your fair skin and dark hair. However, 755 would be slightly more effective due to its shorter wavelength and your fair skin.

Joyce Davis, MD · Answer

You have an ideal combination- light skin and dark hair.  Almost any laser will work well for you.  I like the light sheer duet for the pain free, jelly free convenience.  But, any will work.  Choose a board certified dermatologist for your treatments.

Alexandrite 755 nm laser or LightSheer DUET for fair skin with dark coarse hair?

Answers (5)

Answer: Alexandrite 755

Answer: Alexandrite 755

Answer: Best laser for hair removal with light skin and dark hair

Answer: Best laser for hair removal with light skin and dark hair

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Alexandrite 755 nm laser or LightSheer DUET for fair skin with dark coarse hair?

Answers (5)

Answer: Alexandrite 755

Answer: Alexandrite 755

Answer: Best laser for hair removal with light skin and dark hair

Answer: Best laser for hair removal with light skin and dark hair

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.