If you have decided to explore the world of laser hair removal, you should not note that it is not an easy decision, considering how many options are available on the market today. Each brand touts its devices as being safer and more effective than other brands. In this case, you might find yourself in a dilemma about choosing the best one. Fortunately, there are some things you should consider when shopping for a laser hair removal system so that your chances of finding the perfect fit are even more significant.
1) Type Of Technology Used
The first aspect to look at is what type of laser technology is used in each machine. There are three types of laser technology that are used in commercial hair removal devices. Two of the three types are considered relatively mild compared to the third type, which is typically more aggressive and delivers faster results. They include:
Alexandrite
Considered one of the most effective choices for laser hair removal; it emits a beam with a 755-nanometer wavelength, basically incinerating the pigment inside the follicle (melanin) with heat. Unfortunately, this also means breaking down skin cells at an accelerated rate, causing them to die after only a few treatments. Most people respond well to this technology. However, it may not work well for you if you have darker skin or very coarse hair.
Diode
Considered a good choice for sensitive skin types because it only emits a 905-nanometer wavelength. It can be helpful to those with coarser hair but may not work as well on those with very dark-colored hair or those exposed to the sun extensively. It is an affordable choice for consumers.
Nd: YAG laser
Considered one of the most effective choices for laser hair removal. It emits a beam with 1064 nanometer wavelength, which penetrates deeper into the skin and targets melanin more effectively than other options available today. This procedure is effective due to its increased power, it is effortless to develop post-inflammatory hyper or hypopigmentation (discoloration of the skin) if proper care is not taken. It may also take longer for the device to see results, and older people may not respond well to this type either.
Some devices use a combination of these different types of lasers to improve their effectiveness and safety standards, making them good choices for more than just one group of consumers.
2) Treatments Required To Clear An Area
Another critical consideration when shopping for a laser hair removal system is how much energy it typically takes to clear an area. Some brands advertise that you can treat large areas in less time because their devices deliver more power, while other companies say that consumers will have to spend more time in front of their machines to see results with their products. You need to consider the size of the treatment head on each device. Typically, the larger it is, the easier it will be to cover large areas quickly.
3) Pain Level and Patient Satisfaction
Since most people are interested in getting laser hair removal treatments but are also put off by the prospect of pain, many companies have introduced various technologies and features that promise to make this process as painless as possible. For instance:
Painless Hair Removal
Some technologies use a combination of heat and light to offer more comfortable treatments for those who cannot otherwise tolerate the sensation well.
Gentle On Skin
Several brands now offer lasers that will not emit heat because they can cause discomfort in people with sensitive skin types. Instead, they will only deliver light that is less painful than traditional laser hair removal.
Quick Passes
Most machines on the market today allow you to perform multiple passes over an area without stopping to cool down so that your treatment session is faster and more efficient.
Quieter
Higher power devices are naturally louder than their less powerful counterparts, but some brands have used noise-dampening technology to make them much quieter. That is especially beneficial if your device is in a shared space and you will use it for an extended period.
