One of the questions we frequently encounter from Palomar users is, “What is the Difference Between the LuxG and MaxG Handpieces.” At Parts4Lasers we have extensive experience with both and know these handpieces from the inside out.

As you probably are already aware, the LuxG is the MaxG predecessor. One feature that our clients love is the LuxG compatibility with the Palomar 300 and 500 series. The main uses for the LuxG include:

• Skin Rejuvenation
• Pigmented Lesions
• Vascular lesions

Pigmented lesions can be treated using the LuxG on skin types I-IV. For skin rejuvenation this handpiece can treat skin types I-IV. For Vascular and Rosacea treatments, the LuxG handles skin types I-III safely. Alar vessels like on the side of the nose can be treated safely and effectively on skin types I-II.

Following is a point by point comparison of the Palomar LuxG vs. the MaxG. Of course the MaxG is Palomar’s updated version of the LuxG, so it definitely delivers when it comes to the newest advances in intense pulsed light (IPL) technology. The MaxG also offers superior performance when stacked against pulsed dye lasers in the treatment of blood vessels. The clearance is much more complete and the MaxG reaches deeper vessels better.

System Compatibility:The MaxG is Palomar’s advanced version of the LuxG. While the LuxG works with both the Palomar Starlux 300 and 500 systems, the MaxG only works with the Starlux 500.

Wavelength:Both handpieces deliver 500-600 and 870- 1200 nm of intense pulsed light energy.

Spot sizes:Spot sizes are the same for each handpiece – 10 x 15 mm.

Energy:The LuxG offers of to 70 J/cm2 and the MaxG delivers up 80 J/cm2.

MaxG Capabilities:The MaxG has been optimized for the treatment of vessels and lesions. The Max G offers more energy across the board via dual bands of wavelengths that can better target the absorption of hemoglobin in the presence of melanin. The MaxG also offers Dynamic Spectrum Shifting which utilizes near-infrared light that results in more uniform heating across the entire width of blood vessels. As a result, the MaxG is one of the most effective means of treating medium to large blood vessels that have write papers been traditionally more resistant to other lasers. The MaxG is also highly effective in treating smaller vessels as well. The MaxG is safe to use on untanned skin and has the same Fitzpatrick skin type treatment protocols as the LuxG.