Laser Hair Reduction

Written By: SKINN In Dermatology, Date: Tue May 13 2025

Laser hair reduction is generally considered better than other methods (like waxing, shaving, or depilatory creams) for several key reasons:

1. Long-Term Results

  1. Laser: Offers semi-permanent to permanent reduction in hair growth after multiple sessions.
  2. Others: Shaving lasts days, waxing a few weeks—none reduce hair growth over time.

2. Precision

  1. Laser: Targets pigment in hair follicles without damaging surrounding skin, making it ideal for areas like face, underarms, and bikini line.
  2. Others: Less precise, especially for fine or awkward areas.

3. Reduced Ingrown Hairs

  1. Laser: Reduces or eliminates ingrown hairs over time.
  2. Waxing/shaving: Often causes irritation and ingrowns, especially in sensitive areas.

4. Speed

  1. Laser: Can treat large areas quickly (e.g., legs in 30 minutes).
  2. Waxing/plucking: Time-consuming for big areas.

5. Less Pain Over Time

  1. Laser: Discomfort reduces with each session as hair thins.
  2. Waxing: Equally painful each time; shaving can cause nicks and cuts.

6. Cost-Effective in the Long Run

  1. Laser: Higher upfront cost but fewer sessions needed over time.
  2. Others: Recurring costs add up with no long-term reduction.


The Nd:YAG laser (Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet, wavelength 1064 nm) is considered better for fair to brown skin tones (Fitzpatrick types III–V) because of the following advantages over other laser types:


1. Deeper Penetration

  1. Nd:YAG penetrates deeper into the skin than other lasers (like Alexandrite or Diode), reaching the hair follicle base without strongly affecting the upper skin layers.
  2. This reduces the risk of damaging melanin-rich skin, which is more sensitive to heat.


2. Lower Melanin Absorption

  1. It has lower absorption by melanin, meaning it’s safer for darker skin.
  2. Other lasers (e.g., Alexandrite at 755 nm) are highly absorbed by melanin, which can cause hyperpigmentation or burns in medium to darker skin tones.


3. Reduced Risk of Skin Discoloration

  1. Because it bypasses much of the skin’s surface pigment, it minimizes the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or hypopigmentation.


4. Effective on Coarse Hair

  1. While it may take a few more sessions than Alexandrite for lighter hair, Nd:YAG is still very effective on coarse, dark hair, which is common in fair to brown skin types.


Nd:YAG is the safest and most effective laser for hair reduction in fair to brown skin tones due to its deeper reach and lower interaction with skin melanin.

The Fotona SP Dynamis is a state-of-the-art laser system that combines Nd:YAG (1064 nm) and Er:YAG (2940 nm) wavelengths, offering a versatile platform for various aesthetic treatments.

Advantages of Fotona SP Dynamis for Hair Removal

  1. Dual-Wavelength System: The combination of Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers allows for comprehensive treatment options. The Nd:YAG laser penetrates deeply, making it effective for hair removal, while the Er:YAG laser is suitable for superficial treatments like skin resurfacing.
  2. Suitable for All Skin Types: The Nd:YAG laser's wavelength is less absorbed by melanin, reducing the risk of skin damage in individuals with darker skin tones. This makes it a safer option for a broader range of skin types.
  3. Advanced Pulse Modes: Fotona's proprietary modes, such as PIANO and FRAC3®, enhance treatment efficacy. PIANO mode delivers super-long pulses for deep heating, while FRAC3 targets specific skin imperfections without damaging surrounding tissue.
  4. High-Speed Treatment: The system supports high-speed scanners like the L-Runner Pro and S-11, enabling efficient treatment of large areas, such as the back or legs.


  1. Minimal Downtime: Treatments with the SP Dynamis are designed to be minimally invasive, often resulting in less discomfort and shorter recovery periods compared to traditional methods.

Conclusion

The Fotona SP Dynamis stands out as a top-tier option for laser hair removal, offering effective treatment across various skin types with advanced technology that ensures patient comfort and safety.