Alexandrite Lasers

Explore Alexandrite lasers, including the pros, cons, and types of these popular hair removal lasers. 

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About Alexandrite Lasers

Overview

Alexandrite lasers are a type of laser known for their effectiveness on lighter skin tones. They are one of the fastest options for hair removal. They emit a wavelength of 755 nm, targeting melanin in the hair follicles.

Advanatages

Ideal candidates for laser hair removal have dark hair and light skin, as the laser targets the contrast between the hair pigment and the skin tone. However, advancements have made it possible to treat a wider range of skin tones. Additionally, coarser, darker hair tends to respond better to laser treatment than finer, lighter-colored hair.

Brands

What types of Alexandrite lasers?

Several well-known brands offer Alexandrite laser systems in the United States. Some of the prominent brands include:

  • Candela: Candela is a leading manufacturer of medical aesthetic devices and offers the GentleLASE Pro, an Alexandrite laser system known for its efficacy in hair removal.
  • Cynosure: Cynosure is another reputable company that provides medical aesthetic solutions. They offer the Elite+ platform, which combines an Alexandrite laser with a Nd:YAG laser for versatile hair removal treatments.
  • Alma Lasers: Alma Lasers is a renowned manufacturer of aesthetic devices and offers the Soprano ICE Platinum system. It integrates an Alexandrite laser with diode technology for painless and efficient hair removal.
  • Quanta System: Quanta System is a trusted brand that produces various laser systems. Their Thunder series includes the Thunder MT, which combines an Alexandrite laser with a Nd:YAG laser for effective hair removal on different skin types.
  • Cartessa System: Motus AX/AY is a laser system that utilizes the Alexandrite laser technology. The Alexandrite laser is a type of solid-state laser that emits a wavelength of 755nm. It is highly effective for hair removal and various other aesthetic treatments. This laser technology is considered one of the most powerful and versatile options for permanent hair reduction.
Differentiators

The Gentlase Pro, Elite+, LightSheer Desire, Soprano ICE, and Thunder MT are popular laser systems used for hair removal. Each of them offers unique features and advantages. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:

  • Gentlase Pro: The Gentlase Pro is a diode laser system that combines two wavelengths (755nm and 1064nm) to target different types of hair and skin. It offers fast treatment times and has a dynamic cooling device to enhance patient comfort. The Gentlase Pro is known for its efficacy in treating fine and light-colored hair.
  • Elite+: The Elite+ is another diode laser system that uses two wavelengths (755nm and 1064nm). It is designed to effectively treat a wide range of skin types and hair colors. The Elite+ features a patented cooling system for increased patient comfort during treatment.
  • LightSheer Desire: The LightSheer Desire is a diode laser system that uses high-speed vacuum-assist technology for efficient and comfortable hair removal. It employs a single wavelength (805nm) and offers various spot sizes for customized treatments. The LightSheer Desire is known for its ability to treat larger areas quickly.
  • Soprano ICE: The Soprano ICE is an innovative diode laser system that uses a combination of three wavelengths (755nm, 810nm, and 1064nm). This enables it to target a wide range of hair colors and skin types. It incorporates an advanced cooling mechanism for painless treatments and allows for full-body hair removal.
  • Thunder MT: The Thunder MT is a dual-mode Alexandrite laser system that combines two wavelengths (755nm and 1064nm). It is designed to deliver fast and effective hair removal treatments, especially for larger areas. The Thunder MT incorporates a unique square-shaped spot size for uniform coverage and offers advanced cooling for patient comfort.
  • Motus AX/AY: This laser combines the Alexandrite laser with a proprietary Moveo handpiece, which allows for continuous laser emission while in motion. This means the laser can be moved quickly and smoothly across the treatment area, resulting in faster and more efficient hair removal sessions. The Moveo technology also provides enhanced comfort and safety by delivering energy evenly and gradually to the skin. It can also treat a wide range of skin types, including darker and tanned skin.
Pros
  • Long-Term Reduction: With multiple sessions, laser hair removal can provide long-lasting hair reduction, and in some cases, permanent hair loss.
  • Precision: Laser technology allows for precise targeting, ensuring that only the hair follicles are affected while the surrounding skin remains undamaged.
  • Speed: Laser pulses can target multiple hair follicles simultaneously, allowing for quicker treatment of larger areas like the legs or back.
Cons
  • Requires Multiple Sessions: Achieving optimal results usually requires several treatment sessions spaced weeks apart. This can be time-consuming and requires commitment.
  • Temporary Discomfort: Some individuals might experience mild discomfort during the procedure, which can vary depending on personal pain tolerance and the sensitivity of the treated area.
  • Cost: Laser hair removal can be expensive, especially when multiple sessions are required.
Results
Alexandrite laser hair removal is known to be more effective and longer-lasting compared to other hair removal methods. Studies have shown an average hair reduction of 74–88% with this treatment (6-8 sessions).
 
The laser targets melanin in the hair follicle, preventing regrowth of hair. For best results, the hair should be in the anagen growth phase, which can last between 2 to 6 years.
Safety Profile

The Alexandrite laser hair removal treatment is most suitable for individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV. However, it may not be as effective in removing light-colored hair that lacks melanin, such as soft white or blond hair. It is important to note that individuals with darker skin tones may be at risk of experiencing burns that could result in hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

Cost

Some cost averages with prices varying by location:

 

Face: $150-250 per treatment, with 6-8 treatments needed

Underarms: $150-250 per treatment, usually requiring 6 treatments

Bikini line: $200-300 per treatment, with 6-8 treatments

Brazilian: $300-500 per treatment, needing 6-8 treatments

Lower legs: $300-500 per full leg treatment, with 8-10 treatments

Full legs: $500-800 per full leg treatment, requiring 10-12 treatments

Back: $500-800 per full back treatment, with 8-10 treatments

Full body: $1,000-2,000+, with 12-16 treatments.

Alexandrite Laser Comparison Chart

Skintype
Skintype
Pain
Downtime
Cost
Alexandrite Laser: Cynosure Elite+
Type I-IV
Mild
None
$$
Alexandrite Laser: LightSheer Desire
Type I-IV
Mild
None
$$
Alexandrite Laser: Soprano ICE Platinum
Type I-IV
Mild
None
$$
Alexandrite Laser: Thunder MT
Type I-IV
Mild
None
$$
Alexandrite Laser: Motus AX/AY
Type I-IV
Mild
None
$$

Related Devices

Alexandrite laser: Clarity II

CLARITY is a dual-wavelength platform featuring long-pulsed 755 nm Alexandrite and 1064 nm Nd:YAG, offering versatile treatments for all skin…
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Alexandrite Laser: Cynosure Elite+

Cynosure’s Elite+ laser platform combines an Alexandrite laser with an Nd:YAG laser for versatile hair removal treatments….
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Alexandrite Laser: Gentle Pro Series

A laser system that utilizes 755nm wavelength to target different types of hair and skin. Also with a longer wavelength…
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Alexandrite Laser: LightSheer Desire

The LightSheer Desire is a diode laser system using high-speed vacuum-assist technology for efficient and comfortable hair removal….
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Alexandrite Laser: Motus AX/AY

The Motus AX/AY is a solid-state laser that emits a wavelength of 755nm. It’s considered one of the most powerful…
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Alexandrite Laser: Soprano ICE Platinum

Soprano ICE uses various laser wavelengths and technologies to treat a wide range of patients and hair types year-round….
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Alexandrite Laser: The Epilaze

The Epilaze is one of the only laser system with three “Gold Standard” hair removal wavelengths….
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Alexandrite Laser: Thunder MT

The Thunder MT is a dual-mode Alexandrite laser system that combines two wavelengths (755nm and 1064nm) to deliver fast and…
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