
A Comparative Review of Laser and Photoepilation
A Comparative Review of Laser and Photoepilation
Hair removal systems can be divided into two major categories: laser epilation and photoepilation (IPL).
Laser Types (by generation):
- Ruby — no longer used
- Alexandrite
- Diode
- Nd:YAG (latest generation)
Photoepilation Types (IPL-based):
- Classic IPL
- ELOS epilation (IPL + radiofrequency)
Alexandrite Laser (755 nm)
Ideal when there is strong contrast between the skin and the hair—e.g., dark or coarse hair on fair skin.
Since it targets melanin, the less pigment in the skin and the more in the hair, the more effective the treatment. When contrast is not sufficient, the specialist cannot use high energy, meaning only partial or temporary removal occurs, requiring many more sessions.
On darker skin types, burns occur easily because the skin pigment also absorbs the light. Therefore, Alexandrite lasers have strict tanning restrictions and require highly qualified specialists.
In Georgia, the typical Caucasian skin type contains a high concentration of pigment in both hair and skin. For this reason, Nd:YAG or diode lasers are often better alternatives.
Diode Laser (810 nm)
This laser heats the pigment-containing cells inside the hair follicle, destroying them. It vaporizes the visible hair shaft instantly, which is why hair must be shaved prior to sessions.
However, diode lasers are:
- Ineffective on light hair (low melanin),
- Risky for dark skin, due to the high chance of burns and subsequent keloid formation.
The therapeutic window is narrow, meaning the specialist cannot finely adjust beam energy based on skin and hair type—something that Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers allow.
Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm) — Latest Generation
With the longest wavelength, Nd:YAG light penetrates deeply and targets the capillary feeding the hair follicle, causing it to collapse. The root dies and sheds naturally within 10–14 days.
Key Advantages:
- Reaches the deepest follicles (coarse hair often sits up to 4 mm deep)
- Does not burn the hair shaft (unlike diode)
- Works selectively, removing coarse hair while not destroying peach fuzz, preserving a natural look
- Suitable for darker skin types, tanned skin and even blonde or low-pigment hair
- Never causes burns, as the beam bypasses the skin’s melanin
- Ideal for Caucasian and Fitzpatrick types III–VI
This laser does not instantly burn hair because it works internally on the follicle’s vascular supply, making it more effective and safer long-term.
Photoepilation (IPL)
IPL devices emit multiple wavelengths (600–1200 nm). Only one or two of these wavelengths are effective for hair removal; the rest cause side effects.
Key drawbacks:
- Impossible to “filter out” unwanted wavelengths
- Beam is diffuse and uneven, causing:
- weaker effect in some areas
- stimulation of hair growth at the periphery
- The effective energy is low—final, lasting results are nearly impossible
- Higher risk of burns
- Fine (vellus) hair is destroyed, but often grows back thicker
Advantages:
Low cost and relatively less pain due to weaker energy.
ELOS Epilation
ELOS = IPL + radiofrequency current.
The mechanism is similar to IPL, with added electrical damage to the follicle. This makes it somewhat more effective, but also damages surrounding tissues. Split-beam delivery may stimulate hair growth in adjacent areas.
It also removes fine facial hair, which often returns as coarse hair later.
Advantage:
Relatively inexpensive and less painful.
Skin Care After Tanning
Tanning is especially popular during the summer.
Freshly tanned skin often looks smooth and radiant, temporarily masking imperfections. However, once the tan begins to fade, pre-existing skin issues become more noticeable—and even more concerning, UV exposure may trigger new problems.
For example, if your skin is prone to breakouts, it may appear clear and even immediately after tanning, but over time the problem tends to worsen and more active lesions may appear. Freckles—particularly undesirable on the face and chest—can darken or newly develop. Dryness, pigmentation, uneven tone and premature photoaging are also common consequences.
As the tan fades, the skin often loses its glow, resulting in what we call tired skin syndrome.
Although proper skin care is always essential, it becomes especially important during and after tanning. Here are our recommendations:
- Wash your skin with a special moisturizing cleanser.
- Use creams rich in Vitamin E and urea.
- Avoid tanning beds for a while—give your skin time to rest.
- Use moisturizing masks at home (for example, sour cream or yogurt masks).
- Take a vitamin complex regularly.
If you prefer professional, comprehensive skin care that accelerates results and helps prevent unwanted problems, our clinic’s doctors are ready to offer an individualized consultation and select a suitable treatment plan—such as plasmolifting, mesoroller therapy, hyaluronic acid enrichment and other advanced techniques. These procedures deeply hydrate the skin, boost its resilience to high summer temperatures and prevent dryness.
After the procedures, the skin quickly regains its natural radiance, healthy color, smooth texture and most importantly—you prevent the formation of premature wrinkles.
Hair removal systems can be divided into two major categories: laser epilation and photoepilation (IPL).
Laser Types (by generation):
- Ruby — no longer used
- Alexandrite
- Diode
- Nd:YAG (latest generation)
Photoepilation Types (IPL-based):
- Classic IPL
- ELOS epilation (IPL + radiofrequency)
Alexandrite Laser (755 nm)
Ideal when there is strong contrast between the skin and the hair—e.g., dark or coarse hair on fair skin.
Since it targets melanin, the less pigment in the skin and the more in the hair, the more effective the treatment. When contrast is not sufficient, the specialist cannot use high energy, meaning only partial or temporary removal occurs, requiring many more sessions.
On darker skin types, burns occur easily because the skin pigment also absorbs the light. Therefore, Alexandrite lasers have strict tanning restrictions and require highly qualified specialists.
In Georgia, the typical Caucasian skin type contains a high concentration of pigment in both hair and skin. For this reason, Nd:YAG or diode lasers are often better alternatives.
Diode Laser (810 nm)
This laser heats the pigment-containing cells inside the hair follicle, destroying them. It vaporizes the visible hair shaft instantly, which is why hair must be shaved prior to sessions.
However, diode lasers are:
- Ineffective on light hair (low melanin),
- Risky for dark skin, due to the high chance of burns and subsequent keloid formation.
The therapeutic window is narrow, meaning the specialist cannot finely adjust beam energy based on skin and hair type—something that Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers allow.
Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm) — Latest Generation
With the longest wavelength, Nd:YAG light penetrates deeply and targets the capillary feeding the hair follicle, causing it to collapse. The root dies and sheds naturally within 10–14 days.
Key Advantages:
- Reaches the deepest follicles (coarse hair often sits up to 4 mm deep)
- Does not burn the hair shaft (unlike diode)
- Works selectively, removing coarse hair while not destroying peach fuzz, preserving a natural look
- Suitable for darker skin types, tanned skin and even blonde or low-pigment hair
- Never causes burns, as the beam bypasses the skin’s melanin
- Ideal for Caucasian and Fitzpatrick types III–VI
This laser does not instantly burn hair because it works internally on the follicle’s vascular supply, making it more effective and safer long-term.
Photoepilation (IPL)
IPL devices emit multiple wavelengths (600–1200 nm). Only one or two of these wavelengths are effective for hair removal; the rest cause side effects.
Key drawbacks:
- Impossible to “filter out” unwanted wavelengths
- Beam is diffuse and uneven, causing:
- weaker effect in some areas
- stimulation of hair growth at the periphery
- The effective energy is low—final, lasting results are nearly impossible
- Higher risk of burns
- Fine (vellus) hair is destroyed, but often grows back thicker
Advantages:
Low cost and relatively less pain due to weaker energy.
ELOS Epilation
ELOS = IPL + radiofrequency current.
The mechanism is similar to IPL, with added electrical damage to the follicle. This makes it somewhat more effective, but also damages surrounding tissues. Split-beam delivery may stimulate hair growth in adjacent areas.
It also removes fine facial hair, which often returns as coarse hair later.
Advantage:
Relatively inexpensive and less painful.
Skin Care After Tanning
Tanning is especially popular during the summer.
Freshly tanned skin often looks smooth and radiant, temporarily masking imperfections. However, once the tan begins to fade, pre-existing skin issues become more noticeable—and even more concerning, UV exposure may trigger new problems.
For example, if your skin is prone to breakouts, it may appear clear and even immediately after tanning, but over time the problem tends to worsen and more active lesions may appear. Freckles—particularly undesirable on the face and chest—can darken or newly develop. Dryness, pigmentation, uneven tone and premature photoaging are also common consequences.
As the tan fades, the skin often loses its glow, resulting in what we call tired skin syndrome.
Although proper skin care is always essential, it becomes especially important during and after tanning. Here are our recommendations:
- Wash your skin with a special moisturizing cleanser.
- Use creams rich in Vitamin E and urea.
- Avoid tanning beds for a while—give your skin time to rest.
- Use moisturizing masks at home (for example, sour cream or yogurt masks).
- Take a vitamin complex regularly.
If you prefer professional, comprehensive skin care that accelerates results and helps prevent unwanted problems, our clinic’s doctors are ready to offer an individualized consultation and select a suitable treatment plan—such as plasmolifting, mesoroller therapy, hyaluronic acid enrichment and other advanced techniques. These procedures deeply hydrate the skin, boost its resilience to high summer temperatures and prevent dryness.
After the procedures, the skin quickly regains its natural radiance, healthy color, smooth texture and most importantly—you prevent the formation of premature wrinkles.