At Silky Skin Laser Centers we use the Cynosure Elite Aesthetic Workstation with SmartCool 6, the most comprehensive laser hair removal system available today. It combines two optimal laser hair removal wavelengths into one system; the 755-nm wavelength, which is widely known in the laser industry as the Alexandrite or Alex laser, and the 1064-nm wavelength, which is known
The Alexandrite laser is excellent for light skin, and the Nd:YAG is the safest and most effective laser for dark or tanned skin. These are combined with the SmartCool 6, which keeps your skin safe and cool by providing a continuous flow of chilled air during any Cynosure laser treatment.
Because of this, we are able to safely treat a wider variety of skin types. In addition, the system is optimized for effective treatment of facial and leg spider veins, as well as sun and age spots..
Know the difference between Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Some laser hair removal centers use IPL, which should not be mistaken for laser. IPL devices use a very intense flash of light, like the flash on old cameras. They can be effective for those with light skin and dark hair, but those with darker skin could receive burns if they were to use IPL. (See example)
True laser machines use a single beam of light at specific wavelengths, which makes it safer and effective for a wider range of skin types. The Alexandrite wavelength is the gold standard for light skin, and the Nd:YAG wavelength is the safest for dark or tanned skin.
Here are some of the differences between the two technologies:
| Laser | Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) | |
| Hair Removal (Light Skin) | Excellent (Alexandrite) | Good |
| Hair Removal (Dark Skin) | Excellent (Nd:YAG) | May cause burns |
| Spider veins | Excellent (Nd:YAG) | Very Good (Light skin only) |
| Skin Tightening | Very Good (Nd:YAG) | Limited |
| Superficial Pigmentation | Excellent (Alexandrite) | Excellent (Light skin only) |
| Deep Pigmentation | Excellent (Alexandrite) | Limited |
| Machine Cost | $100K and up | $25K – $40K |
“Many providers who use IPL devices typically market them as lasers despite the fact that they are not, by definition, lasers. Consumers are becoming more aware of these differences and are asking wavelength specific questions during consultations as they understand what they should look for as they shop.”
I am not convinced that a 500 watt IPL can outperform a 20,000 watt Alexandrite laser in hair removal as much as I know a Hyundai cannot outperform a BMW.
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