Myth: Laser Hair Removal Can’t Be Done On Darker Skin
Think again, because nothing could be further from the truth! People with darker skin tones are often discouraged from getting laser hair removal procedures because of laser hair removal’s unwarranted reputation for damaging darker skin. But the truth is that recent advances in laser technology and techniques have now made it possible to treat nearly all skin tones and types of hair. Two such laser technologies are the Nd:YAG and Diode lasers, both of which effectively and safely treat darker skin tones.
Nd:YAG Laser Hair Removal
The Nd:YAG laser is one of the most innovative lasers on the market. It has the incredible ability to distinguish between subtleties in pigmentation, effectively removing hair on any skin tone. Because the Nd:YAG laser produces one of the longest beams, fewer pulses are required to get the job done. This means shorter laser hair removal sessions, minimal patient discomfort, and reduced risk of complications.
Diode Laser Hair Removal
Diode lasers offer a gentler touch, removing hair while still protecting the skin. This ensures you experience minimal damage to the surrounding tissue. The Diode is typically most effective on light-to-medium skin tones but also works on nearly every skin tone.
Got Darker Skin? Then Read On
If either of these lasers are used for hair removal, you shouldn’t have any additional risks or concerns compared to lighter skin tones. Though darker skin, in general, has a higher risk of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation if burned, damaged, or manipulated, you shouldn’t experience any increased risks with these two innovative laser technologies. This is because both lasers are highly sensitive to all color and melanin, meaning that they can more precisely penetrate hair follicles without damaging surrounding tissue.
It’s also especially important to go to a qualified laser hair removal professional if you have darker skin. Why? While laser hair removal results can be great if you’re treated by an experienced laser hair removal technician using the right kind of laser, if you’re treated with the wrong laser or if it’s on the wrong setting, you won’t get the maximum hair reduction. Worse, you might also end up with burns, hyperpigmentation, and even increased hair growth. This phenomenon may be seen in darker-skinned women who are being treated on the face, but the risk can be reduced by using a longer-wavelength laser.
Laser Hair Removal FAQ’s
There are always questions you should ask to make sure your laser hair removal technician is experienced and knows which laser to use for your skin type. Here’s the top five:
How many lasers are on the premises, and are they rented or owned?
The more lasers a doctor or medspa has access to, the greater the likelihood you’ll be treated with the safest, most effective one for your skin color and hair type. Be wary if machines are rented, however; chances are the outfit is doing only a few procedures a month.
What lasers do you use for hair removal, which one is best for my skin, and why?
The technician should be able to articulate why a particular laser is the best match for you, taking into account your skin tone, hair texture, and color along with any potential complications.
How many laser hair removal treatments have you performed?
There’s no standard laser hair removal certification, so this is the best way to gauge a person’s experience level. The answer should be at least a few hundred.
How many sessions will I need?
The average number of visits necessary to see permanent hair reduction is three to five—but some people respond well in two sessions, and others need a dozen. That’s why you should steer clear of any package deals—who knows if you’ll actually need that many sessions.
Can you treat me if I have a tan?
If the answer is yes, then head the other way. The only way to treat tanned skin without causing burns is to use ineffective settings.
Laser Hair Removal Gets Results on Light & Dark Skin Types
There’s no question that laser hair removal works. It’s the preferred way to remove hair because it’s safer and more permanent than other methods such as waxing, plucking, shaving, and electrolysis. Laser hair removal is so effective that most clients experience permanent hair loss after an average of three to five sessions.
Want to learn more about laser hair removal? Then schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today by emailing LaserAway.com or calling the staff at LaserAway at (888) 965-2737. LaserAway looks forward to making sure you never have to shave or wax again.
