The short answer: "Laser hair removal" covers several technologies. Diode lasers such as our DiolazeXL work across a wide range of skin tones. Alexandrite lasers are effective on lighter skin but riskier for darker tones. Nd:YAG lasers are gentler on darker skin but can be less effective on finer hair. IPL isn't a laser at all. The right device for your skin and hair, used by a trained provider, is what gets you permanent reduction safely.
Every hair removal device aims light at the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. The pigment absorbs it, turns it into heat, and the heat disables the follicle. The challenge is that your skin contains melanin too. The more contrast there is between dark hair and lighter skin, the easier the job. The less contrast, the more the choice of device and settings matters.
That's also why every technology needs a course: only follicles in their active growth phase respond, so it takes 6–8 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart to catch them all.
| Technology | Wavelength | Strengths | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diode laser | Around 800–810nm | Versatile across a wide range of skin tones, with good depth into the follicle. Modern systems add built-in cooling and large treatment tips for speed | Still needs hair with pigment in it |
| Alexandrite laser | 755nm | Highly absorbed by melanin, very effective on lighter skin with dark hair | Because skin pigment absorbs it strongly too, it's riskier for darker skin tones |
| Nd:YAG laser | 1064nm | Penetrates deeper with less absorption by skin pigment, a common choice for darker skin | Can be less effective on finer or lighter hair, and often feels more intense |
| IPL | Broad spectrum, filtered | Can work for light skin with dark hair. Also treats pigment and redness | Not a laser, so the energy is less targeted. Generally not suited to darker skin. Home devices are much lower powered |
We use InMode's DiolazeXL diode laser. It's cleared for all six Fitzpatrick skin types, including type VI, which many older lasers aren't. Its large spot size makes it one of the fastest diode systems available, so a full leg doesn't take all afternoon, and the integrated contact cooling keeps it comfortable. Most clients describe each pulse as a warm rubber-band snap. After a full course, most see an 85–95% reduction in hair.
We do own an IPL, Lumecca, but we use it for sun damage and redness, not hair. The IPL guide covers what it does.
No laser or IPL can treat white, grey, blonde, red or very fine hair, because there's no pigment in it to target. Peach fuzz doesn't respond either. For light-coloured hair, electrolysis is the alternative. Any clinic that promises otherwise, or promises results in one or two sessions, is overselling.
At Royal Medical Spa, laser hair removal is performed by Torri, Julia or Carolyn. For zone-by-zone pricing, see the 2026 cost guide, or the laser hair removal page.