2024-02-29
Depending on who you ask, you may get conflicting answers about the differences between IPL and diode laser hair removal technology. Most people point to the effectiveness of diode lasers versus IPL as the main difference, but where does this come from?
Let's take a look at what you need to know about laser hair removal technology. Before investing in a laser hair removal business, understanding the differences between diode lasers and IPL is key.
OVERVIEW
Diode lasers and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) lasers are both used for cosmetic treatments, but their mechanisms of action and the types of skin problems that can be treated differ.
Diode lasers emit a single focused wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle or the melanin in the skin, generating heat and destroying the hair follicle to prevent hair growth or target pigmentation lesions and hyperpigmentation. Diode lasers are more effective for permanent hair removal and removal of pigmentation.
IPL lasers emit a variety of wavelengths of light that scatter and penetrate different depths of skin, targeting different chromophores such as melanin, hemoglobin, and collagen. IPL is effective in treating a variety of skin problems, including hair removal, pigmentation, redness and irregular texture. IPL can also stimulate collagen production and improve skin tone and texture.
Learn about laser hair removal techniques
The key principle behind laser hair removal is to match a specific wavelength of light and pulse duration to a specific target, namely the melanin in the hair follicle, while avoiding surrounding tissue areas. Melanin is the natural pigment in our skin and hair that is associated with color.
Learn about diode laser hair removal
The key to successful diode laser hair removal is the delivery of high energy into the skin. Energy is selectively absorbed by the melanin surrounding the hair follicle without affecting the surrounding tissue.
Diode lasers use a single wavelength of light and have a high melanin mutation rate. When melanin heats up, it damages the roots and blood flow of hair follicles, permanently impeding hair growth. The high quality laser hair removal machine uses contact cooling to protect the skin surface for a comfortable, painless treatment experience. Diode lasers provide high frequency, low energy density pulses that can be safely used on all skin types.
Learn about IPL laser hair removal
Technically, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) technology is not laser therapy. It uses a broad spectrum of light with multiple wavelengths, which means it creates unconcentrated energy around the hair and skin areas. As a result, more energy is wasted and less selective absorption by hair follicles leads to poor hair destruction effect. Using broadband light also increases the likelihood of side effects such as burns or hyperpigmentation, especially if integrated cooling is not used. For the most part, intense pulsed light is usually only suitable for lighter skin types.
What is the difference between diode laser hair removal and IPL?
The above treatments mean that, more often than not, IPL techniques require more regular and long-term hair removal treatments. Compared to IPL, diode lasers can work more efficiently and reduce patient discomfort (with integrated cooling) while treating more skin and hair types
Which laser is best for your salon business?
In business, the customer is king. The aim of diode laser hair removal is to provide the most efficient technology that brings high customer satisfaction and maximum return on investment to your business. However, not all diode lasers are the same, so it is important to understand the key factors that make this possible.
Choosing a system with the medical CE mark guarantees more rigorous product testing and quality. To achieve this, the original manufacturer will be certified to ISO 13485. It is believed that the medical CE mark will become a regulatory requirement for all cosmetic devices in the near future.
How much does professional laser hair removal machine cost?
Prices can vary widely from brand to brand. Note that, as with most things in life, if the prices sound "too good to be true," they usually are. Cheap beauty machines are of lower quality and end up costing businesses more in the long run.
High quality diode lasers can last millions of pulses, reducing operating costs. IPL, on the other hand, requires regular replacement of the flash or head, which must be factored into the cost when considering the total cost of the business.
Diode laser hair machine specifications
The spot size, power and technical specifications of diode laser hair machines can easily help you choose the right model for your business.
In reality, pulses mean cash, so smaller spot sizes require more shots to treat a specific area. However, for larger spot sizes, it is important to remember that the laser hair removal machine must have the ability to handle larger spot sizes.
Conclusion
All in all, diode lasers are more suitable for hair removal and pigmentation removal, while IPL lasers are more versatile and can solve a wider range of skin problems. The choice between the two will depend on the specific needs and goals of the patient.