Laser Hair Removal: Diode Lasers

The Diode Laser consists of a high power laser diode which emits invisible infrared light at a wavelength of around 800-808nm.

This longer wavelength allows the laser's energy to penetrate deeper into the into the skin than either the Ruby or the Alexandrite laser, and thus this laser is thought to be safer for darker skin types than those two machines.

In addition, fast repeat rates and large spot sizes are available with Diode lasers, allowing them to treat large areas like the full back or legs almost as quickly as the Alexandrite lasers such as the GentleLase.

However, the Diode is thought to be less effective for lighter and finer hair than either the Ruby or the Alexandrite. With some patients, initial treatments with the Diode laser create thinner, more sparse regrowth. For these patients, it might be wise to start on the Diode, then switch to treatments on an Alexandrite laser once the hair has been sufficiently thinned.

The following are some of the most common Diode lasers currently in use:

The Diode laser, particularly the LightSheer, is one of the most popular lasers on the market. It has been cleared by the FDA as safe for "permanent hair reduction".