Laser Hair Removal for Dark Skin Tones
Technology can be beautiful, and here is one wonderful example.
Limitations originally accompanied the advent of laser hair removal.
It wasn’t a service for everyone, not because of a lack of interest. Rather, it was because the service wasn’t always considered safe for dark skin tones, only lighter skin.
Burning – and other potential complications – were real issues. Originally, the laser would be more of a burden than a blessing. Clients with dark skin had a legitimate risk of singeing their skin because the laser’s capabilities were limited and not tailored for darker skin.
But now we’re in the 2020s. Technological advances now make laser hair removal work for darker skin tones.
Read on to learn the do’s and don’ts of laser hair removal for darker skin tones.
How does laser hair removal work?
Light from the laser targets pigment in hair follicles. The follicles are overheated and destroyed, affecting the hair growth cycle. The unwanted hair can never grow again. When laser hair removal started in the early ’90s, it was only effective for dark hair and lighter skin tones.
Certain laser hair removal providers now have advanced technology and include a YAG laser. The YAG wavelength works specifically for darker skin without any burning or discomfort. Laser hair removal is now a reality for everyone, regardless of skin tone!
Should any steps be taken prior to laser hair removal?
Research is your best friend here. You want to make sure the clinic or spa where you’re receiving treatment has the experience and the proper technology to treat darker skin.
This makes your consultation all the more important. Ask to see before and after photos of clients with darker skin to make sure the outcomes are to your satisfaction. And ask about the laser hair removal professional’s experience.
The last feeling you want before the laser touches your skin is an uneasy sense that you’re not 100% safe and in the care of someone in the know.
Finally, be sure to follow all pre- and post-treatment guidelines your laser hair removal professional illustrates, including keeping your skin its natural tone and shaving before laser treatment, and avoiding the sun after, among others!
The last feeling you want before the laser touches your skin is an uneasy sense that you’re not 100% safe …
Is there a particular laser needed for laser hair removal with brown skin?
The laser used primarily for laser hair removal on dark skin is the Nd:YAG.
The Nd:YAG, especially in recent years, has become increasingly popular. That’s because its YAG wavelength goes deeper into the skin, bypassing the pigmentation of the skin easier. It’s a good choice for skin tones ranging from medium to dark skin, making it the safest option for darker skin tones.
Are there any risks associated with laser hair removal for darker skin?
It’s important to be aware that darker skin tones and those with more melanin are more prone to side effects than lighter skin or fair skin. That means redness, potential burns, scabbing, or blistering can take place at a higher rate if the proper laser isn’t used.
But perhaps the biggest risk is a lack of knowledge. Make sure the clinic or spa performing the laser hair removal treatment has the proper technology for the safest care.
Is there any specific post-treatment care?
You can go back to your typical routines! Head back to work if your laser treatment was done over lunch. Carry on with your gym schedule. Shower and get ready as you typically would before a night on the town. Just be gentle with your skin as though you had a mild sunburn.
The one request for any client regardless of skin type would be to stay out of the sun following treatment. Also, be sure to wear sunscreen for some added protection when you are exposed to the sun before and after laser hair removal treatments!