Continue using Alexandrite laser or start nd:YAG for Skin Type IV/V Indian? Which is most effective? (Photo)

Question

I have had 15 treatments with the Alexandrite Gentlelase candela. As I have continued to educate myself more about the types of lasers suitable for my skin type, I am now starting to doubt whether I should continue using the Alexandrite laser or switch to the Cynosure Elite nd:YAG laser. I would like to know which one would be the MOST EFFECTIVE for my skin type and hair thickness. The pictures were taken two weeks after my last laser treatment. (The black dots are the destroyed hair follicles)

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photos.  You need to find a very experienced provider at this point – if you have had this many treatments and things are still active, then something seems amiss to me.  The lasers you are describing are both good and its usually the Nd: YAG laser that requires more treatments because although it is the safest for dark skin, it also usually needs more treatments to get the best results.  You have had too many Alex treatments so it’s time to move to the Nd: YAG or one of the diode lasers. Often it is best to go somewhere where there are multiple devices so that they can be used where needed – instead of having one device and trying to make it work everywhere!

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting pictures.  You did not mention for how long you have had the 15 treatments.  If you this has transpired in less than 2 years, you probably have been getting ineffective treatments.  This could be due to poor settings, calibration of the laser or technique.  It also could be an underlying hormonal imbalance.We utilize a Vectus diode laser to safely and effectively treat all skin types.  We recommend finding an experienced and reputable provider in your area with updated equipment.  Calibration and power of the laser is important for a safe, comfortable and effective treatment.  Find out if their laser is under a maintenance contract.  If their laser isn’t calibrated on a regular basis or is underpowered, your treatment may be painful or inefficient. Best of luck.

Manu B. Aggarwal, MD · Answer

Wow, 15 treatments is quite many. In your skin type, Nd:Yag is typically better to start with and then switch to Alexandrite for finer hair (only in very experienced hands because of the risk of burns is higher with the Alex with your skin type). Facial hair is the most difficult to treat. It seems you have had decent results, I am not sure; you still have quite a few thick dark hairs. In our office this is why we combine our treatments with electrolysis for facial hair. It is very effective, especially on the face. You can definitely switch and see what kindness of results you get.

Continue using Alexandrite laser or start nd:YAG for Skin Type IV/V Indian? Which is most effective? (Photo)

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Continue using Alexandrite laser or start nd:YAG for Skin Type IV/V Indian? Which is most effective? (Photo)

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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.