MediLux
Palomar (now Cynosure)
- Brand Tier
- Established
- Technology
- Ipl
- Wavelengths
- 400nm-1400nm (IPL)
- Skin Types
- Lighter to medium-dark skin tones. Not recommended for very dark skin (Fitzpatrick VI) — no Nd:YAG laser handpiece available on this platform.
- Cooling
- Contact cooling
Notes
Palomar's original IPL platform and predecessor to the StarLux series. IPL only, unlike the StarLux 300/500/Icon, the MediLux does not support the Lux1064 Nd:YAG laser handpiece. Compatible with IPL handpieces only: LuxR, LuxRs, LuxY, LuxG, LuxB, LuxV. Smooth Pulse technology prevents epidermal temperature spikes. Handpieces rated for 100,000+ pulses: among the most durable in the industry. 48 lbs: extremely compact and portable. Discontinued but still found in budget clinics and on the used market for under $5,000. Palomar acquired by Cynosure in 2015.
Overview
Palomar's first-generation multi-treatment IPL system, launched in the early 2000s. The MediLux established Palomar's handpiece-based platform architecture that would evolve into the StarLux 300, StarLux 500, and eventually the Cynosure Icon. Unlike its successors, the MediLux is pure IPL, it has no laser handpiece option.
How It Works
IPL flashlamp delivers broadband light (400–1400nm) filtered through application-specific handpieces. LuxR/LuxRs handpieces filter for hair removal wavelengths, LuxG for vascular/pigmented lesions, LuxV for acne. Smooth Pulse technology eliminates energy spikes that could damage the epidermis, maintaining consistent skin temperature throughout treatment.
Typical Uses
- Hair removal via IPL (LuxR for large areas, LuxRs for face/bikini)
- Photofacials and pigmented lesion treatment (LuxG)
- Acne treatment (LuxV)
- Budget practices and smaller clinics looking for an affordable multi-treatment system
Key Features
Pure IPL: no laser capability. This is the oldest platform in the Palomar family and does not support the Lux1064 Nd:YAG handpiece available on StarLux and Icon. If a clinic is using a MediLux for hair removal, they are using IPL, not laser. Still encountered in clinics due to its low cost on the used market and the exceptional durability of Palomar handpieces.