All treatment guidance in this section is based on the Candela GentleMax laser. This is a dual wavelength system using Alexandrite and Nd:YAG. Settings and approaches discussed here are specific to this device and should not be transferred to other systems without proper retraining.
Wavelength determines how deep the energy travels and how much of that energy is absorbed at the surface.
The Alexandrite has a shorter wavelength. It is strongly attracted to pigment and concentrates more of its energy closer to the surface of the skin. This is why it is highly effective, but also why it requires caution as skin tone increases.
The Nd:YAG has a longer wavelength. It travels deeper into the skin and bypasses more of the surface pigment before reaching the follicle. This is what makes it safer for higher skin tones.
You are not just choosing a device. You are choosing how the energy moves through the skin.