Why One Laser Isn’t Like the Others

If you’ve ever walked into a med spa and heard, “Oh, this laser treats everything!” — it’s time to raise a beautifully groomed brow.

Lasers are powerful, precise tools. But here’s the truth: no single device can safely and effectively treat every skin concern on every skin type. And that’s not a bad thing — it’s what makes a great provider so valuable.

Here’s Why It Matters

Each laser is built with a specific wavelength, pulse style, and target chromophore in mind. Some reach deep to lift and tighten, while others stay at the surface to fade sunspots or shrink redness.

Think of them like workout classes:

• CO2 laser = HIIT bootcamp (aggressive, powerful, dramatic results, but you’ll need downtime)
• Laser Genesis = yoga flow (gentle, repeatable, soothing)
• IPL = a great combo class... if you’re the right fit
• Nd:YAG = your reliable gym buddy (safe, steady, melanin-friendly)
• Pico = fast-twitch precision (targeted pigment, no collateral damage)

Different skin types and concerns call for different modalities.

Real-Life Example:

Let’s say you have melasma and mild redness (pretty common here in CO):

• A provider who knows their tech might combine low-fluence 1064 Nd:YAG for pigment +PDL for redness.
• A less experienced one might say “let’s do IPL!” — and accidentally make your melasma worse. Oof.

A Word on One-Laser Clinics

There are amazing clinics that specialize in one platform — but they’ll also tell you when that platform isn’t the right tool. That’s key.

If you’re seeing the same laser used for acne scars, brown spots, AND sagging... all in one visit... on every client? That’s not customization — it’s convenience dressed up as care.

The Takeaway

The best outcomes come from strategy, not shortcuts. Your skin deserves more than a plug- and-play solution.

So ask your provider:

• What laser are you using?
• Why that one for my skin tone and concern?
• What alternatives exist — and why weren’t they chosen?

Knowledge is your glow serum. The more you understand how devices differ, the more confidently you can navigate your options — and get the radiant, safe, real-deal results you deserve.