What is the most common type of laser used for hair removal?

The most common type of laser used for hair removal is the diode laser. Diode lasers have become the preferred choice due to several key characteristics that make them effective for this purpose. Their wavelength typically ranges from 800 to 810 nm, which is optimal for targeting the melanin in the hair follicles while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin.

Diode lasers also provide a good balance between effectiveness and patient comfort, often allowing for faster treatment times and the ability to treat a variety of skin types effectively. This versatility, combined with their ability to deliver energy in a controlled manner, makes them popular in clinical settings for hair removal.

Other types of lasers, such as the Nd:YAG, are used for hair removal as well, particularly on darker skin types, but the diode laser remains the most frequently utilized in aesthetic practices. Continuous wave and pulsed lasers are typically not the first choice for hair removal due to limitations in their effectiveness and treatment capabilities compared to the diode laser.