MeDioStar Asclepion diode laser hair removal

For two decades, Alexandrite 755 nm has dominated the specialty literature and clinical practices, for a few clear reasons. First, high absorption in melanin at 755 nm makes the energy efficiently captured by the hair shaft and bulb, which led to rapid response especially on light skin (phototype I–III), with thin hair or lighter (brown, dark blond). Secondly, clinics that introduced Alexandrite in the 2000s–2010s reported accelerated reductions in hairiness in the first sessions compared to old generation diodes. Thirdly, many of the early clinical studies dedicated to hair removal used Alexandrite platforms (e.g., GentleLase – Candela), cementing the reputation of “gold standard” in international protocols at that time.

This history explains why, still, Alexandrite remains excellent for certain phenotypes (very white skin, fine-medium hair, lighter), and in some centers it is still preferred for face or arms in selected patients.

Both diode and Alexandrite (755 nm) are lasers frequently used in permanent hair removal, but there are important differences:

Conclusion:

• If you have darker skin, you are tanned or have thick, black hair → the MeDioStar diode laser is the optimal choice.
  
  
• If you have very light skin and fine hair → Alexandrite may be a good option, but it is more limited in indications.

The course starts with a consultation: we establish the phototype, density, thickness and implantation depth of the hairs, any skin conditions and the history of tanning or medication (e.g., photosensitizers). The area to be treated must be clean and shaved (ideally 12–24 hours before), without creams/oils on the day of treatment.

During the procedure, the handpiece with 360° cooling slides on the skin and delivers pulses calibrated for the follicular target. The sensation is described as a short heat or slight “stings”, attenuated by cooling; most patients consider it comfortable. The duration varies between 10 and 40 minutes, depending on the area and hair density.

After treatment, a discrete redness or a sensation of local heat may appear, which quickly remits. We recommend avoiding intense sun and sauna for 48 hours, applying a soothing cream and SPF 50 on exposed areas. The hairs will gradually fall out in 1–2 weeks; those remaining usually become finer and rarer with each session.

Standard protocol: 6–8 sessions for optimal results, at 4–8 weeks apart (depending on the treated area and the hair growth cycle). This rhythm follows the synchronization with the anagen (active growth phase), the only stage in which the melanin-rich root can be effectively targeted. In certain regions (face in women, back in men), additional finishing sessions may be necessary.

The face (chin, mustache, sideburns), armpits, arms and forearms, legs (thighs, calves), back, chest, abdomen and groin/bikini area (in classic or extended versions) can be safely treated. For each region, the parameters are personalized according to the phototype, hair thickness and density, so that efficiency and safety are maximum.

Immediately after the session, the skin may be slightly red or warm for a few hours. Respect photoprotection (SPF 50), avoid intense sun exposure, sauna and swimming in the first 48 hours. You can resume normal activities on the same day. The treated hairs will fall out progressively in 1–2 weeks; do not pluck the hairs (waxing/epilator), because you break the cycle and decrease the efficiency of subsequent sessions. Between sessions, shaving is allowed.

For consistent results, maintain regularity of appointments; large gaps between sessions can lead to mismatch with the active phase of the hair and slow down progress.