What laser to use????

I live in southern California and am new to this site. From what I have read I guess I am a skin type 1. I have fairly white skin and dark coarse hair. I was referred to a place in Anaheim CA by coworkers and went in for one session. It seemed to do ok, but I found out it uses a StarLux 500 machine, which I found out is an IPL machine. Based on the things I have read so far, it seems like Alexandrite lasers are the best for my situation. But I have also heard people on this site say Lumenis LightSheer is good as well.

So now to the point… Can anyone tell me what I should use PLEASE.

I’m not a laser specialist, but over the years of reading this site, the alexandrites are highly favored for their power and efficacy. Hair is tough and I would want something just as tough in the mix.

Where in Southern California are you? If you’re really that pale, I can recommend a great place I use in Costa Mesa that has an alexandrite (I’m a skin type IIish)

Thanks Dee for your time and information.

Brenton, I live in Corona. But I work in Anaheim and we go to Costa Mesa a lot, so Costa Mesa would be great.

The place I use is called Coastline Dermatology Laser and Medical Center (right off the 55).

275 Victoria St
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(949) 646-2311

Their prices are very good overall (full legs is $350). I personally use Rita as my laser tech. They may have others do it as well, but I’ve used Rita since starting with them. Also, if you call and Raquel answers the phone, you can give her my name. She and I have great conversation everytime I go.

Thank you very much Brenton for the referral. I called them and confirmed that they use the Candela GentleLase, which from all the info I have gathered so far, sounds like the best thing going.

Anyone else have a place you would recommend in the So Cal area?

If Brenton recommends it, I suggest you go with it :slight_smile:

Thank you LAgirl for responding and the info. And thanks again Brenton for the referral to Coastline Dermatology. I have a consultation with them this Tuesday. I also came across a place called AMA Skincare in Costa Mesa. They also have great reviews and use the GentleLASE machine. They sounded very knowledgeable on the phone, so I scheduled a consultation with them for this Monday.

I think I have narrowed it down to these two facilities. Thanks again and anyone please feel free to throw out any places that you have tried until I have made my final decision.

I am sure that the two places you have chosen very professional and will perform a patch test but if this is not mentioned make sure to bring it up. A patch test is used by the clinican to determine a safe and effective setting of the laser for your skin and hair type. Also after the patch test make sure to wait 24 hours before going for your ‘real’ appointment to ensure there is no adverse reaction.

Post the settings they want to use on you. That’s all you really need to make a decision.