If you’ve been researching laser hair removal in London, you’ve probably come across three types of technology: IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), Diode laser, and Alexandrite/Nd:YAG lasers — the category that includes Splendor X. The differences between them matter enormously, both for your safety and your results. And yet most clinics don’t explain them.
At Pure Wax London, we invested in the Splendor X with BLEND X technology because, after evaluating every major system on the market, it is simply the most clinically advanced laser available today. In this post, we explain exactly why — and what it means for you.
First, Let's Understand the Three Technologies
IPL — Intense Pulsed Light
IPL is not actually a laser. It emits a broad spectrum of light across multiple wavelengths, which is then filtered to target hair pigment. Because the light is scattered rather than focused, it is far less precise than a true laser — meaning more energy is needed, more surrounding skin is affected, and results are considerably less consistent.
IPL can be effective on lighter skin tones with dark hair, but it carries a higher risk of burns and pigmentation changes on darker skin, and it does not deliver the same level of permanent reduction that a clinical laser can achieve. You’ll find IPL in many high-street salons and at-home devices — its low cost makes it popular, but it is very much an entry-level technology.
Diode Laser
Diode lasers are a significant step up from IPL. They emit a single, focused wavelength (typically 808nm) that penetrates the skin and targets melanin in the hair follicle with far greater precision. This makes them considerably more effective for permanent hair reduction.
However, diode lasers have a fundamental limitation: a single fixed wavelength. Because they operate at one wavelength only, they cannot be fully optimised for all skin tones or all hair types. On darker skin, the 808nm wavelength can be absorbed by skin pigment as well as hair pigment — increasing the risk of burns or hyperpigmentation. Many diode systems also use a circular laser spot, which leaves small gaps in coverage between pulses. Diode laser is a solid, widely-used technology — but it is not the most advanced option available.
Splendor X with BLEND X Technology
Splendor X is a dual-wavelength laser system manufactured by Lumenis — one of the world’s most respected medical laser companies with over 50 years of clinical innovation. Rather than relying on a single wavelength, Splendor X simultaneously combines two laser wavelengths: Alexandrite at 755nm and Nd:YAG at 1064nm. This is the core of what makes it categorically different — and categorically better.
Splendor X vs Diode Laser vs IPL: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | Splendor X (Pure Wax London) | Diode Laser | IPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology type | Dual-wavelength laser (755nm + 1064nm) | Single-wavelength (808nm) | Broad-spectrum light |
| Precision | Very high — targeted to follicle | High | Low — scattered light |
| Safe for dark skin tones | Yes — Nd:YAG 1064nm safe for all tones | Limited | No — high burn risk |
| Safe for tanned skin | Yes | Limited | No |
| Spot shape | Square — 100% coverage, no gaps | Circular — gaps between pulses | Circular — gaps |
| Sessions required | Fewer — dual wavelength more efficient | Standard 6–8 | More sessions needed |
| Comfort | Very comfortable — built-in cooling | Moderate | Can be uncomfortable |
| Permanent reduction | Yes — clinically proven | Yes | Partial — inconsistent |
| All hair types | Yes | Most | Dark, coarse only |
| Clinical backing | Lumenis — 50+ years medical research | Widely used | Limited evidence |
5 Reasons Splendor X Outperforms Every Other System
1. Dual Wavelength = Better Results for Everyone
The 755nm Alexandrite wavelength is exceptionally effective at targeting fine to medium hair on lighter skin tones. The 1064nm Nd:YAG wavelength penetrates deeper, making it ideal for darker skin tones and coarser hair. BLEND X technology fires both wavelengths simultaneously — calibrated to your individual skin type, hair colour, and thickness. No other system does this. A diode laser gives you one tool. Splendor X gives you two.
2. The Square Spot Means No Missed Areas
Almost every other laser uses a circular spot — meaning each pulse leaves small uncovered gaps. Over a treatment session this adds up to a meaningful percentage of untreated skin. Splendor X’s unique square spot tiles perfectly edge to edge, covering 100% of the treatment area with no gaps and no uneven results.
3. Safer for Dark and Tanned Skin
The Nd:YAG 1064nm wavelength has a lower affinity for skin melanin, meaning it safely penetrates darker skin without the risk of hyperpigmentation or burns. For clients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV, V, and VI — groups many clinics cannot treat effectively — Splendor X is a genuine game-changer. It is also safe on tanned skin, where most lasers carry significant risk.
4. Fewer Sessions Without Compromising Results
Because BLEND X harnesses the combined power of two wavelengths simultaneously, each session is more efficient at targeting follicles across different growth cycles. Most clients achieve the same level of permanent reduction in fewer sessions than with a diode or single-wavelength laser — lower total cost, less time in clinic, and faster results.
5. Backed by Lumenis — the Gold Standard in Medical Lasers
Splendor X is manufactured by Lumenis, at the forefront of medical laser technology for over 50 years. Their systems are used in NHS hospitals, dermatology clinics, and leading aesthetic practices worldwide. This is not a budget device rebranded for salon use — it is a medical-grade laser with an extensive body of clinical evidence behind it.
What This Means for You as a Client
At Pure Wax London, choosing Splendor X was not about prestige — it was about results. We
wanted a system that works on every client who walks through our door, regardless of skin
tone, hair colour, or hair type. No other technology we evaluated could do that.
| More inclusive treatments | Safe and effective for every skin tone. |
| 100% coverage | The square spot treats every millimetre — no missed patches. |
| Fewer appointments | Most clients complete their course faster than with diode alternatives. |
| Greater comfort | Built-in cooling makes each session highly comfortable. |
| Long-lasting results | Clinically proven permanent reduction, not just temporary suppression. |
Which Laser Technology Is Right for You?
| Your Situation | Our Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Fair skin, dark hair | Splendor X Alexandrite mode — outstanding results |
| Medium to olive skin | Splendor X BLEND X — calibrated to your tone |
| Dark skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) | Splendor X Nd:YAG — safe and highly effective |
| Tanned skin | Splendor X — safe where most lasers are not |
| Fine or light hair | Splendor X — dual wavelength increases efficacy |
| Considering at-home IPL | Splendor X — clinical results IPL cannot match |
Experience Splendor X at Pure Wax London
We offer Splendor X laser hair removal at both of our central London clinics. Each session is carried out by a trained practitioner in a discreet, clinical environment. We begin every new client journey with a full consultation to assess your skin type, hair type, and goals — ensuring your treatment is precisely calibrated for the best possible results
| Pure Wax London — Soho | Pure Wax London — Farringdon |
|---|---|
|
7a D’Arblay Street, London W1F 8DF Nearest tube: Oxford Circus / Tottenham Court Road |
66 Compton Street, London EC1V 0BN Nearest tube: Farringdon / Barbican |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Splendor X better than diode laser?
For most clients, yes. Splendor X’s dual-wavelength BLEND X technology delivers more tailored, comprehensive results than a single-wavelength diode — particularly for clients with darker skin tones, tanned skin, or varied hair types
Is IPL the same as laser hair removal?
No. IPL uses broad-spectrum light, not a true laser. It is less precise, less effective for permanent hair reduction, and carries a higher risk of side effects on darker skin. Clinical laser systems like Splendor X deliver significantly superior results.
Does Splendor X work on dark skin?
Yes. The Nd:YAG 1064nm wavelength is safe and effective for Fitzpatrick skin types IV, V, and VI.
How many sessions do I need with Splendor X vs other lasers?
Because BLEND X dual-wavelength technology is more efficient per session, most clients require fewer sessions than with a single-wavelength diode laser or IPL to achieve the same level of permanent hair reduction.
Can Splendor X be used on tanned skin?
Yes — one of Splendor X’s key advantages is that it can be safely used on tanned skin, where most other laser and IPL systems carry a significant risk of burns or pigmentation changes.
Why does Pure Wax London use Splendor X and not a diode laser?
We chose Splendor X because it is the most clinically advanced system available, safe for all skin tones, and backed by Lumenis — the global leader in medical laser technology for over 50 years.
Ready to experience the Splendor X difference?
Book your consultation
at Pure Wax London — Soho or Farringdon.