Are you looking to acquire or upgrade your hair removal laser?
If so, read on, as this information could help you. There are indeed a plethora of brands and technologies, making it difficult to choose, let alone make the right choice. Our expert shares their knowledge and lists the questions to ask and the answers you should obtain.
CHAPTER 2: Diode Technology
The diode laser, with a wavelength of 805 or 810 nm, is highly appreciated in laser hair removal, especially among dermatologists who favor its effectiveness and ease of use.
Unfortunately, this wavelength has lost some of its appeal due to Alexandrite manufacturers flooding the market with their commercial presence in the 2000s. However, this wavelength has many advantages, such as numerous clinical studies demonstrating its effectiveness, ease of use, reliability, and less expensive maintenance compared to Alexandrite.
Before purchasing a hair removal laser, it’s essential to audit your practice, geographic area, number of users, and treatment environment to make the right choice. The diode laser might be a very good option.
The Diode Laser in Brief:
Advantages:
- Suitable for skin types 1 to 5, and sometimes 6
- Easy to use
- Operates with a standard outlet (no need for 20 or 32-amp outlets, so no electrical work required)
- Smaller and quieter than Alexandrite lasers
- Less expensive to purchase than Alexandrite lasers
- Robust and reliable with fewer breakdowns
- Cheaper maintenance with little to no consumables
- No preheating required before use
Disadvantages:
- Not always ergonomic
- Depending on the machine’s quality, it might be less effective on light and fine hair
- Requires a gel application for 95% of the devices on the market
- Patients are more familiar with Alexandrite lasers (more articles and forums about Alexandrite)
Important Things to Know:
I. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Is the handpiece heavy or light? Is the fiber long and flexible?
Expert Opinion: The weight of the handpiece is significant, especially for diode lasers, because laser hair removal sessions can be long (e.g., full legs and back).
- Does the machine have multiple handpieces and spot sizes? Do you need to restart the machine to change handpieces?
Expert Opinion: Additional manipulations will lead to time loss, and for practices with multiple users, increased manipulation raises the risk of malfunctions.
- What are the included spot sizes, and are there optional sizes?
Expert Opinion: This is crucial in choosing your diode laser, as treatments involve skin contact, and some areas are harder to access (e.g., bikini lines, intergluteal cleft). Hence, it’s beneficial to have versatile handpieces for different body areas.
- What is the machine’s maximum power? What is the minimum pulse duration?
Expert Opinion: When buying a diode laser, pay attention to many technical criteria, more so than for other hair removal lasers, due to the large number of diode manufacturers (the technology is relatively easy to develop). Beyond ergonomics, the machine’s power and stability are crucial for effective treatment. Therefore, closely examine technical specifications and favor manufacturers with strong reputations based on proven clinical studies.
- What is the laser’s maximum firing frequency? Does the machine work primarily in “motion” mode?
Expert Opinion: This determines the speed at which you can treat large areas. However, speed does not equate to effectiveness. This frequency should be combined with high energy delivery: not all lasers can consistently deliver uniform energy with each pulse.
Some machines operate in “motion” mode, meaning the user repeatedly passes over the same area (with a very high frequency, around 10Hz – 10 shots per second) to gradually increase the hair’s temperature and destroy it. This method can cause discomfort and repetitive motion issues (like tendonitis) for the user. Additionally, “motion” mode can be problematic for small or inaccessible anatomical areas (e.g., upper lip, full bikini line, intergluteal cleft).
- Is the handpiece ergonomically practical?
Expert Opinion: Beyond the machine’s reputation and power, ergonomics are vital. The trigger button should be well-positioned, and the handpiece should be ergonomic and light, making the diode laser practical to use. Diode laser treatment involves skin contact, with a sapphire cooling system for skin protection. 95% of diode lasers use a cooled sapphire in direct contact with the skin, requiring a contact gel (like an ultrasound gel), adding extra steps and costs, and necessitating gel removal after sessions. This is not very pleasant and should be considered in the overall use of your laser. However, the gel can have a mild analgesic effect.
- Are diode lasers painful for patients?
Expert Opinion: The 805/810 nm diode wavelength penetrates slightly deeper than the 755 nm Alexandrite. This deeper penetration may cause more noticeable pain but is beneficial for treating areas with deeply embedded hair, such as men’s backs or facial hair. A deeper wavelength can be more effective in these areas. Some diodes are less painful (those with “motion” systems or suction systems), but they have ergonomic drawbacks mentioned above.
2. PRICE:
What is the machine’s price, including service and replacement parts? What options and warranties are available? Do warranties cover everything? Are there consumables to consider?
Expert Opinion: High-quality lasers, depending on their brand, generation, and reputation, range from 45,000 to 65,000 euros*. Warranty and maintenance contracts vary by manufacturer. It’s complex to fully understand and detail, so ask us if things are unclear.
*Depending on negotiations, options, and warranties