What Is Laser Hair Removal Equipment?
Laser hair removal equipment is used to permanently reduce hair growth. It works by targeting a natural skin pigment called melanin within the hair follicle to stop its growth. Such equipment is a popular alternative for other hair removal methods like waxing, sugaring, or shaving.
How Can Laser Hair Removal Machines Benefit Your Clients?
There are many benefits that clients can enjoy from using laser hair removal machines. These machines…
- …remove hair from any part of the body
- …are precise
- …can prevent ingrown hairs
- …are less painful than waxing or plucking
- …provide permanent results
Types of Laser Hair Removal Systems
There are 5 types of laser hair removal systems available today:
- Ruby
The Ruby laser hair removal method was one of the first to be developed. While it is nearly obsolete and doesn’t work as well on dark skin with coarse hair, it is still effective for finer hair and lighter skin. This type of hair removal method can have some side effects, including swelling, soreness, and redness. Such symptoms can be alleviated by using a cold compress.
- Alexandrite
Alexandrite is one of the most popular types of laser hair removal available. It’s best for people with lighter skin tones and is less painful than some other laser types due to its shorter wavelength. However, this also means that the laser doesn’t penetrate as deeply into the hair follicle. Permanent hair removal will only be achieved with more sessions.
- Diode
Diode laser hair removal systems are often compared to Alexandrite systems. What differentiates the diode laser is that it uses a longer wavelength that can penetrate more deeply into the skin. This laser type works best for people with coarser hair and medium to dark skin tones. Diode laser treatments often require fewer sessions for permanent hair removal.
- Nd:YAG
The Nd:YAG treatment is best for those who have thicker, coarser hair and darker skin. This laser type has the longest wavelength, which means it may be more painful and uncomfortable. It reaches the absolute bottom of the hair root and can result in permanent removal after just a few sessions.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Of the treatments listed here, IPL is the one that is not actually a laser. It uses pulsing light to damage hair follicles to prevent their regrowth. The advantage of IPL is that it can cater to different individuals’ needs since the power level and wavelengths can be adjusted. These configurations will determine how many sessions a client will require before permanent hair removal is achieved.
How Do Diode Laser Hair Removal Machines Work?
Diode laser hair removal machines work by emitting high levels of energy into the skin. It uses a single wavelength of light that will be absorbed well by the melanin while keeping the surrounding skin protected. As the melanin heats up, the hair root is destroyed and blood can no longer flow to it, disabling the hair permanently.
How Do IPL Laser Hair Removal Machines Work?
IPL achieves similar results for hair removal using broad spectrum of light. So unlike laser treatments, which uses a single wavelength, IPL uses many wavelengths of light to target the hair root. These gentle pulses of light make hairs go into their resting phase until they eventually fall out and gross less in the affected area.
Diode Laser Hair Removal Treatment
What Is Diode Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
A diode laser hair removal treatment is a cosmetic procedure that reduces hair growth, usually with permanent results. Dermatologists and trained technicians use a moderate wavelength to target the removal of coarse hair on medium-dark skin tones.
What Are The Side Effects Of Diode Laser Hair Removal? Does It Hurt?
There can be some side effects that result from diode laser hair removal treatments.
- Mild swelling
- Temporary changes in skin color
- Slight redness
- Temporary skin irritation
While diode laser hair removal isn’t that painful, it can cause some discomfort depending on the individual.
How Many Diode Laser Hair Removal Treatments are Needed?
Those undergoing diode laser hair removal may need 4 to 6 sessions for complete and permanent removal.
How Long Do Diode Laser Hair Removal Results Last?
Results can last between 3 to 6 months or up to a year after the last treatment. For some, hair removal is completely permanent.
Can You Have Diode Laser Hair Removal After Botox?
It’s important not to have facial or laser treatments after Botox injections for at least 10 days.
Diode Laser Hair Removal Recovery Time
Redness, bumps, and swelling may persist for 2 hours or longer after receiving the treatment. Lotions, moisturizers, and deodorants should not be used for the first 24 hours.
How Long Is Diode Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
The diode laser treats an area the size of a coin every second. This means that small areas like the upper lip can take less than a minute. Large areas like the legs can take up to 60 minutes or more.
Diode Laser Hair Removal Cost in the US
The average cost of laser hair removal in the US is $389.
Diode Laser Hair Removal Pros And Cons
Pros
- Long-term or permanent hair removal
- Hair removal on any area of the body
- Generally painless
Cons
- Expensive
- Long process
- Side effects
IPL Laser Hair Removal Treatment
What Is IPL Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
IPL laser hair removal treatment is a cosmetic procedure that uses light to prevent hair regrowth. Dermatologists and trained technicians use machines that emit a broad-spectrum wavelength of light to target the hair follicle at its root.
What Are The Side Effects Of IPL Laser Hair Removal? Does It Hurt?
There can be some side effects from using IPL laser hair removal. These include:
- Redness
- Irritation and swelling
- Hyperpigmentation
Since IPL uses broad-spectrum light to remove hair, it is less painful than laser treatments.
How Many IPL Laser Hair Removal Treatments are Needed?
For best results, it is recommended to have 6 to 8 sessions for IPL laser hair removal.
How Long Do IPL Laser Hair Removal Results Last?
Results can last between 6 months to a year. Maintenance treatments yearly can help prolong these results.
Can You Have IPL Laser Hair Removal After Botox?
Botox can be done immediately after IPL.
IPL Laser Hair Removal Recovery Time
Healing after IPL treatments can take as little as 2 to 3 days and up to a week.
How Long Is IPL Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
Smaller areas may take 15 to 20 minutes while larger areas can take up to a half hour. Those planning on getting IPL for several areas can expect 40 to 60 minutes per session.
IPL Laser Hair Removal Cost in the US
The average cost of IPL laser hair removal in the US is $429.
IPL Laser Hair Removal Pros And Cons
Pros
- More affordable if done at home
- Less painful
Cons
- More sessions
- Generally more expensive
- Not as suitable for dark skin and light hair color
Diode Laser Hair Removal Vs IPL Hair Removal
There are several differences between diode laser and IPL hair removal treatments. Since laser works with a single spectrum of light to target the skin, it can penetrate more deeply to reach the bottom of the hair root. This makes it very effective at fully removing hair and prolonging results.
IPL distributes broad-spectrum light across the skin to target multiple hairs. Results can last for up to 6 months to a year, depending on the individual.
Treatment times can also vary between the two. Diode lasers are typically faster since they are more powerful. IPL is gentler on the skin, but this requires more sessions to see results.
IPL treatment is best for light skin tones and darker hair colors, such as dark blonde, brown, and black hair. Diode laser is best suited for those with coarse, dark hair and medium to dark skin tones.
Laser Hair Removal Alternatives
While laser is effective for long-term hair removal, not everyone may have access to these treatments. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Laser Hair Removal Vs Waxing
Waxing is a popular hair removal method that is commonly used at salons. An applicator is used to apply wax in the direction of the hair growth. Then, fabric or paper is applied on top and smoothed down. The cloth or paper strip is then quickly pulled off the skin in the opposite direction of the hair growth.
Waxing is quick and pulls the hair from the follicle. However, unlike laser hair removal, the follicle remains intact in the skin. This means hair grows again in a few weeks, which will require another session of waxing. Waxing is also more painful than laser treatments.
Laser Hair Removal Vs Sugaring
Sugaring is a method very similar to waxing, but instead of wax, water-based pastes made of natural ingredients such as sugar or honey are used. The paste is applied to the skin and quickly pulled off in the opposite direction of hair growth. Some sugaring methods also use cloth or paper to pull off the paste.
While sugaring is quick like waxing and pulls hair from the follicle, it is not as long-lasting as laser treatments. It is also less painful than waxing, but a little bit more painful than laser.
Laser Hair Removal Vs Electrolysis
While laser hair removal uses high-heat lasers to damage hair follicles and slow down their growth, electrolysis involves inserting an epilator device into the skin. Instead of mild radiation, it uses shortwave radio frequencies to prevent hair growth. Both methods work by damaging the hair follicles so that existing hairs fall out and new ones do not grow. Multiple treatments and follow-up appointments are required for best results.
Performing Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Who Can Perform Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Laser hair removal treatments are safest when performed by a board-certified dermatologist. This ensures that it is effective and reduces the chances of potential side effects. In some states like California, only physicians, physician assistants, or registered nurses can perform these procedures.
Licensed estheticians also do laser hair removal. Most states require these professionals to obtain an esthetician license and a specialized certificate from a laser hair removal program. Their training includes hair removal, makeup application, and other treatments like microdermabrasion and chemical peels.
As much as possible, it is best to seek treatment from a dermatologist, physician, or nurse to ensure safety and the best results.
How Long To Wait Between Laser Hair Removal Treatments?
For most people, waiting 4 to 8 weeks between treatments is best. The number of treatments can range between 6 to 10 depending on the type of laser hair removal used.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment Areas
Laser hair removal treatments can be used to remove hair on several areas of the body, including the following:
- Face
- Back
- Arms
- Legs
- Chest
- Underarms
- Bikini area
Laser Hair Removal Treatment For Face
Hair removal for the face is quite common and popular. It can be done on single spots such as the brow area, upper lip, and sideburns. Areas that are treated in conjunction with each other can also be targeted in one session. Not all clients will need or want hair removal for the whole face, but the option exists. It’s best to get a consultation with a dermatologist or physician trained in laser hair removal to decide on treatment areas before doing the procedure.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment For Underarms
The underarm area experiences shaving and waxing most frequently because of how fast it grows. This makes it an ideal and very common treatment area for laser hair removal treatments. It is important to note that the underarms may be more prone to pain than other parts of the body since the skin in this area is much thinner.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment For Legs
The leg area usually responds well to laser hair removal. This is because leg hair is typically darker and thicker than body hair in other areas. It’s possible to get better results with fewer treatments when doing hair removal for the leg area.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment For the Back, Abdomen, and Buttock Area
When considering hair removal for the torso, most people think of areas such as the shoulders, lower back, and the nape of the neck. There are some clients that will need hair removal for the front of their bodies, too. There are laser hair removal treatments available for the lower abdomen all the way up to between the breasts, pectoral muscles, and breastbone. Removing hair from the buttocks is also a popular option.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment For Bikini Area
The bikini area is one of the most commonly treated areas for laser hair removal, for both men and women. There are several options for the size of the area to be treated, whether it’s the bikini line or a full Brazilian procedure. This allows clients to choose the one that meets their needs and gives them the look that they want. While the area is small in terms of skin coverage, the different options for treatment will help clients determine whether it should be treated as a mid-size or large area.
Laser Hair Removal Expenses
Having a laser hair removal system for your business comes with certain expenses. You will have to account for the following:
Laser system. Purchasing a professional laser system can cost as much as $100,000. Unless you already have the capital, it is usually best to take out a loan to finance this.
Salaries. Laser hair removal technicians are just as important as your machine. Across the United States, technicians make an average of $63,140 a year.
Certification and licensing. Providing training, certification, and licensing is essential to operate a legitimate laser hair removal business. This can cost between $4,250 and $6,000 per technician.
Maintenance. Regular maintenance is required to ensure the laser equipment performs effectively. Service contracts with manufacturers can cost as much as $12,000 per year.
Benefits Of Laser Hair Removal Machine For Your Spa Business
There are several benefits of having a laser hair removal machine for your spa business:
Speed. These machines remove hair faster than traditional methods such as epilating, waxing, and sugaring. This means you can serve more clients in a day and increase your bottom line profits.
Multifunctionality. The right laser equipment will also allow you to do other treatments, such as anti-acne, photo rejuvenation, dark spot removal, and treatment of varicose veins.
Marketability. Laser hair removal machines have a unique selling point because they are fast, painless, and permanent.
Repeat business. Laser hair removal machines work on a cumulative basis, which means that several treatments are required for long-lasting results. This brings in more business.
Treatments You Can Perform With Diode Laser Hair Removal Machine
Several treatments can be done using diode laser hair removal machines. These include the following:
- Hair removal
- Fat reduction
- Treatment of varicose veins
- Scar removal
- Acne reduction
Treatments You Can Perform With IPL Laser Hair Removal Machine
IPL hair removal machines can also be used for several functions:
- Hair removal
- Photofacial
- Skin lightening and pigment reduction
- Treatment of spider veins
- Boost collagen production
Instagram Hashtags for Laser Hair Removal Procedure
Use these hashtags on Instagram to find out more about laser hair removal procedures:
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Summary
Laser hair removal machines can permanently reduce hair growth with several treatments by destroying the hair follicle at the root. There are several benefits to using laser, such as hair removal on any part of the body and providing permanent results.
Of the five types of laser hair removal methods available, two are most popular: Diode and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). The first uses a longer wavelength and is most suitable for people with medium to dark skin and coarse, dark hair. Diode laser treatments require fewer sessions before permanent results are apparent. IPL is not actually a laser. Instead, it uses a pulsing broad-spectrum wavelength of light to target multiple hair follicles at once. It is often gentler than other laser types.
There are also other hair removal alternatives to laser. Waxing and sugaring methods use paste made of synthetic and natural ingredients that pull hair in the opposite direction of its growth. Compared to laser treatments, this only lasts several weeks before hair grows again. Electrolysis functions similarly to laser hair removal in that it destroys the hair follicle to prevent hair regrowth.
Laser hair removal treatments can be applied to different areas of the body. The most popular areas for treatment are the face, underarms, and bikini line. Clients also opt for hair removal on the arms and legs. Some choose to target the back, torso, and buttocks as well.
When investing in professional laser hair removal for your spa or cosmetic business, there are several things to consider. First is the expense of laser hair removal. Business owners need to take into account the costs of the laser system itself, salaries of laser technicians, certification and licensing, and equipment maintenance.
There are also many benefits to having a laser hair removal machine for your spa business. These machines can remove hair more quickly, provide treatments other than hair removal, and encourage clients to come back for more sessions. They are also attractive to clients because they are painless, fast, and permanent.
Conclusion
Hair removal is one of the fastest-growing businesses in cosmetics, with hair removal devices amounting to
. This makes it a profitable business to invest in. Not only that, but research has also found that these devices are generally safe and effective at reducing hair growth over time compared to other hair removal methods. As people continue to invest in their health and appearance during the pandemic, more individuals are prioritizing treatments like laser hair removal. Overall, laser hair removal equipment adds value, both to business owners and customers alike.
