What's the Best Laser Hair Removal Machine?

The answer to this question most certainly depends on your skin type. One practitioner above claims that the long pulsed ND:Yg is the best laser while another claims it is the Lightsheer. In fact we agree with both of them. The long pulsed Nd:Yg laser is best for darker skin types and the Lightsheer (Diode) is best for lighter skin types. One other laser that was not mentioned is the alexandrite laser. This is an excellent laser for light skinned hair removal. One thing that is important to keep in mind when choosing a laser is that we are talking about types of laser and brands of lasers in this discussion.

Best TYPES of lasers for hair removal: Diode and alexandrite for light skin, long pulsed Nd:Yg for darker skin.

The Lumenis Lightsheer is an excellent Diode laser. The Cynosure Apogee is an excellent alexandrite laser and the Sciton Profile is an excellent long pulsed Nd:Yg laser. This is certainly not meant to be an extensive list of brand names but hopefully clarifies the different between the type of laser used and the brand name of the laser.

I am a big fan of:
alexandrite laser for light skinned people (cynosure apogee elite, candela gentlelase are examples of alexandrite lasers)
nd yag for darker skinned folks (cynosure apogee elite, candela gentleyag)
I think diode lasers (lightsheer) is also a good one, although I prefer individualized lasers mentioned above.
Not a big fan of IPL for laser hair removal...I used IPL for a while but gave it up in favor of above technologies.

There are many different laser companies offered in the aesthetic field.  As far as laser hair removal goes, they are fairly similar with the type of light that is used and strength etc.  In my office we carry a Sciton Laser and we have been very pleased with it and the results we have soon for laser hair removal.  It can be used for all skin types, it is fairly quick, virtually pain free, and can be used on all areas of the body.

It very much depends on your skin type and hair type. There are several FDA approved devices, as you have mentioned. As long as you see a doctor that is qualified and the doctor uses the appropriate device that is the most effective for your skin and hair type, then you will have successful results with no complications.

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

There are many types of Laser used in Laser Hair Removal.  The Lasers available are diode, ruby, alexandrite, and Nd:YAG laser, as well as intense pulsed light devices, IPL, [ technically IPL are not lasers ].    There really no single best laser for everybody and honestly most of them work pretty well.  The operator of the laser is very important. The operator not only to makes sure the setting are ideal for you and your hair and skin type but also ensures the timing and depth of treatment to be most effective. 
Most of Laser Hair Removal chains have gone out business but there are still some companies that use high pressure tactics.  Beware of high pressure sales. When considering a hair removal laser treatment, consumers should ask the following questions:First and foremost - Do NOT Pay for guarantee . Everyone responds differently and a reputable laser center will feel confident that you will come back for services.
Laser hair removal has come a long way since the first laser for hair removal received FDA clearance in the mid 1990’s.  Today, lasers can work on all skin colors and some lasers are even safe for treating tanned skinned. Lasers for hair removal can be performed on any area of the body. They are faster and more comfortable. 
 

There is not a single best laser to treat hair. Each laser has its pros and cons. Although many lasers are available with brand names, the key is to look at the frequency of laser to determine its effectiveness.Types of LASERS:Diode- Perhaps the best studied and good for many skin types (the type I favor in my practice). IPL- Not as effective as diode in head to head studies and not good for all skin types. May require more treatments.Nd:YAG lasers- A good selection for darker haired patients. May require more treatments than diode and has a smaller spot size typically and may require more treatmentsAlexandrite- Best for lighter skin types however it is almost as effective as diode in efficacy.

There are many different lasers for hair removal all of which work best on dark coarse hair .The alexandrite is one  of  the best for lighter skin and the long pulse  nd: Yag laser is best for darker skin types. Today the technology has come along way its not as painful and it does not take as much time to complete the treatment.

The Gentle Max Pro laser treats ALL skin types!  As its name implies, this laser is Gentle and Safe for all body treatments and skin colors.   It effectively destroys hair follicles with little to no discomfort and without messy topical gels.  

I have been working in the industry of medical aesthetics for 12 years and have had the great opportunity of performing laser hair removal with a handful of different types of technology for laser hair removal. They all are effective in permanently reducing and removing unwanted hair. However, I believe that Cutera Cool Glide laser is superior to any other type of IPL or laser technology out there.  It is great for all skin types. As long as the patient is a good candidate for laser hair removal, this device provides excellent results. 

The long pulsed Nd:Yg laser is good for dark skin, and either the Alexandrite or Diode is good for lighter skin types. IPL (which is not a laser, but filtered light) is also effective for light skin. That said, it's sort of a trick question since it depends not only on the color of a
person's skin and hair, but it also depends on the settings used for treatment and the timing of treatments. An experienced laser technician, nurse, or physician will choose the settings  most likely to be effective while minimizing risk to the skin. Also, consistent timing between sessions will ensure each individual hair has a high chance of being caught in the growth phase (when it can be targeted most effectively) during at least one of the sessions.