Advancements in laser hair removal

A variety of laser systems are commonly used as a safe and efficient treatment for long-term hair removal.

The ruby laser (694 nm), alexandrite laser (755 nm), diode laser (810 nm), Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm), and intense pulse light (IPL, 580 and 615 nm) have all proven to be clinically effective. Although effective, until recent years only a single wavelength emission has been used for the treatment of permanent hair reduction. While results have been achieved, the process has been slow in permanently reducing hair growth often failing to achieve the removal of fine and lighter coloured hairs with challenges of treating darker Fitzpatrick skin tones. Side effects including temporary erythema, perifollicular oedema, hypo- and hyperpigmentation, vesicle, and crusting have been associated with the treatment along with several reports documenting cases of the paradoxical effect after laser treatment.

Through clinical trials, it has been proven that optimal results for the permanent reduction of hair do require multiple laser wavelengths delivered in one emission for all combinations of hair types and skin colours. The appropriate selection ensures the destruction of the hair follicle without collateral damage to the surrounding skin and less pain for the patient.

Hair removal by the long-pulsed alexandrite laser is mediated by two mechanisms of action, selective photo thermolysis and thermokinetic selectivity. Alexandrite, a solid-state crystal reaching 755nm into the skin, absorbs into the melanin in the hair shaft and responds effectively to lighter skin types. It cannot be used safely on dark skin types. Nd: YAG, a solid crystal reaching deep into the skin dermis to a 1064nm penetration, is primarily absorbed by Oxyhaemoglobin and is suitable for all skin types, Fitzpatrick 1-6. Nd:YAG is the best laser source to treat darker skin types safely as it does not attack melanin.

Combining Alexandrite 755nm and Nd: YAG 1064 in one emission enables the practitioner to target two chromophores at the same time, melanin, and oxyhaemoglobin. Mixing the technology in one single shot produces unrivalled results and fewer treatments for the patients. The synergy of the two wavelengths can completely denature the hair follicles with improved safety even in darker skin conditions due to reduced fluences. Under these conditions, the epidermal temperature is reduced with improved safety and effectiveness.

What does this mean forthe practitioner and the patient?

• Highly effective treatments

• Ability to treat all Fitzpatrick 1-6

• Ability to treat all hairtypes

• Increased treatment speed

• Fewer treatments required

• Increased patient safety

• Flexibility to use single or combined laser sources.

Mixed modality lasers, pioneered by Quanta System provide complete flexibility and safety for the practitioner and patient. The latest innovation in using two mechanisms for laser hair removal has further expanded the treatment of gynaecological concerns and the removal of tattoos.

Distributed by AES For more information, visit advancedestheticssolutions.co.uk, call 029 2023 1228, or email info@advancedesthetics.co.uk.