When it comes to laser hair removal, you’ve probably heard many myths, outdated ideas or just plain misinformation about darker skin tones not being suitable for laser hair removal. Let’s address a few of these ideas as we explore laser hair removal and tips you can apply if you have darker skin and planning for laser hair removal for darker skin tones:

Myths Around Laser Hair Removal and Darker Skin Tones

It’s possible that you have heard several myths about laser hair removal and darker skin tones. Allow us to dispel some of these for you:

1. Your skin is not suitable for laserThere are several facts about laser hair removal that you should know. You may have had bad news when you wanted to go for laser hair removal in the early 2000s, and you were turned away due to your skin tone being too dark for the laser to work effectively. Technology and laser development have changed a lot! The old lasers could not distinguish between the pigment and the hair follicle.Thanks to technological advancements and the best quality lasers, we can use laser hair removal on any pigment or hair thickness. For this reason, we have two different lasers we use depending on pigment and thickness. The Lumenis LightSheer Duet laser is a diode laser working at an 800nm wavelength that penetrates deep and is perfect for thick, stubborn hair. While the Lumenis Splendor X laser works with 1064nm wavelengths and Alexandrite at different frequencies and is ideal for darker skin types.

2. It Is Not As Effective on Darker Skin TypesThe reason why our laser works is because the wavelength is at 1064 nanometers, which in essence means it’s the wavelength that ignores the pigment of the skin going straight to the melanin of the hair follicle, thus working just as effective on darker skin as it would on lighter skin tones.This hair follicle-targeted approach is also safe for your skin as it bypasses the melatonin, eliminating any concern about hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

3. The Laser Can Burn Darker SkinThis belief was based on the fact that the 800nm laser would heat up when used on darker skin, potentially harming the skin. When the correct laser is used in the hands of our trained technicians, we can assure you that your skin won’t be damaged, and you will leave with the typical anticipated side effects and nothing more.Now that all myths about laser hair removal for darker skin tones have been debunked, you know it’s safe and can book your consultation. Let’s chat about what you can expect during laser hair removal for darker skin tones to set your mind at ease about any of your uncertainties.

What To Expect During Laser Hair Removal for Darker Skin Tones

Thicker, coarse hair is the ideal type for the laser as it has the most extensive surface area to target the hair follicle’s melanin. The hair won’t die entirely but will appear lighter and finer as your sessions continue. Keep in mind that this is one of the key reasons you should schedule regular laser hair removal appointments.Our lasers reduce hair growth on any skin or hair type. The laser uses heat and wavelength to “zap” the hair, and you might feel a warm sensation, similar to a rubber band snapping on your skin. The session can take about half an hour to an hour, depending on the areas you want to have lasered.

How Many Treatments Will I Need of Laser Hair Removal for Darker Skin Tones?

Before considering how many treatments of laser hair removal for darker skin tones you need, you need to understand how the laser and hair growth process works. The laser targets hair during its growth cycle, and each hair grows at its own pace. For this reason, all hair won’t be targeted during one session. The growth cycle happens over four to six weeks on the face and six to eight weeks on the rest of the body. So the number of treatments you will need to see the desired results depends on how fast and thick your hair grows. We usually recommend about nine to 12 sessions for optimal hair growth reduction. If you have concerns about the cost of laser hair removal, let us know and we can answer your concerns.

Any Side Effects I Should Anticipate?

All our equipment is safe to use on any body part, no matter pigment or hair type. If you have experienced rashes, eczema, or any skin condition before, we can always do a patch test and see how your skin reacts to the laser. The side effects (regardless of skin pigment) you may experience are redness, itching, discoloration and irritation at the laser site.Visiting a professional medical center with trained staff will minimize any risk to your skin as well as side effects. Minor side effects are common practice, and you should not experience any more than minor discomfort once you have been to our center for treatment. Keep in mind that you should avoid trying laser hair removal at home to ensure you remain safe throughout the process.

Will I Need Any Downtime?

You won’t need downtime or special healing time after a session. We will give you tips and directions to follow for aftercare as your skin will be sensitive and require gentle treatment. We will discuss all your concerns during our consultation and give you more aftercare tips.If you would like to schedule your appointment or learn more about laser hair removal for darker skin tones, get in touch with us!Testimonial from Hana, Satisfied Laser Hair Removal PatientI received laser hair removal on my face and have been very pleased with the service and cost. Mayra is great at communicating and always attentive to my concerns. I would 100% recommend her if you're seeking laser hair removal services. The Elite membership is worth the cost and after a year you get a gift card that's equivalent to the cost of the membership!