Name three common laser wavelengths used for hair removal and indicate which skin types they are generally best suited for.

• A. 755 nm Alexandrite (II–III), 810 nm Diode (II–III), 1064 nm Nd:YAG (I–II)
• B. 755 nm Alexandrite (best for skin types I–II), 810 nm Diode (good for I–IV), 1064 nm Nd:YAG (IV–VI)
• C. 755 nm Alexandrite (I–VI), 810 nm Diode (I–VI), 1064 nm Nd:YAG (I–VI)
• D. 755 nm Alexandrite (III–IV), 810 nm Diode (V–VI), 1064 nm Nd:YAG (I–IV)

Answer: (B)

The main idea is matching how these wavelengths interact with pigment and skin to balance safety and effectiveness across different skin tones. The 755 nm Alexandrite is strongly absorbed by melanin, which makes it highly effective for hair on lighter skin but also increases the risk of epidermal damage on darker skin. That’s why it’s best suited for skin types I–II, where epidermal melanin is minimal. The 810 nm Diode sits in the middle, offering good hair-targeting with more moderate absorption by epidermal melanin and deeper penetration, giving solid results for a broad range of skin types commonly I–IV. The 1064 nm Nd:YAG penetrates deeper and is less absorbed by surface melanin, reducing the risk of pigmentary changes in darker skin, making it the safer choice for skin types IV–VI; though it may be less efficient for very fine or light hair compared with the shorter wavelengths. Together, these three wavelengths cover a wide spectrum of skin tones with appropriate safety profiles, which is why this combination is considered the best representation for common hair removal practice.