Laser hair removal is one of the most popular options for removing unwanted hair. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved laser devices for removing hair in 1995. At that time, lasers were most effective for removing dark-colored hair from light-colored skin.
Since then, lasers have come a long way. Researchers have perfected different light wavelengths for use in lasers. So, is laser hair removal safe for dark skin? Yes: New technologies have made laser hair removal for dark skin safe and effective.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal works by directing a highly focused beam of light at the hair follicle. The energy from the light heats the pigment in the hair to the point that it damages or destroys the follicle. After that, the follicle cannot produce new hair for a very long time.
The earliest lasers worked best at heating dark pigments. This meant that the device could affect dark hair without heating the pigment in lighter surrounding skin cells. These lasers were less effective on lighter hair tones with less pigment.
They also posed risks for darker skin. The laser could heat up higher pigment levels in dark skin tones, which led to burning or scarring.
Will Laser Hair Removal Work on Dark Skin?
Modern hair removal lasers have overcome the limitations of those first-generation lasers, and they’re safe to use for dark skin laser hair removal. New wavelengths are effective for dark skin tones without the risk of skin damage. However, it’s important to make sure that you visit a hair removal specialist who understands which laser is best for dark skin and has the skills and experience to perform laser hair removal that is safe for dark skin.
Ask about the equipment before you schedule a hair removal consultation. Many experts consider the Nd:Yag 1064nm best for dark skin. The longer light wavelength minimizes the risks of laser hair removal for dark skin. These lasers can only heat the hair and are unlikely to heat the pigment in the epidermis while effectively removing hair.
Tips for Laser Hair Removal for Dark Skin
To ensure laser hair removal will work for you, you should request a patch test before committing to a complete treatment. Ask your technician if they can treat a small area so you can see how your skin and hair react to treatment. This can inform whether you want to move ahead with treating a larger area.
You should also talk to your technician about your skin. Let them know if you have a history of hyperpigmentation, excessive scarring, or serious reactions to products or treatments. Be sure to discuss any medications and skincare products you use with your technician, as some medicines can increase skin sensitivity.
If you decide to get laser hair removal, you should follow pre-treatment instructions to ensure you get the best result. Many popular anti-aging ingredients like retinols and retinoids increase photosensitivity, so you may want to stop using them for a week or longer before your treatment. If you have taken Accutane, you need to wait at least six months after stopping before getting laser treatments.
Caring for Dark Skin Before and After Laser Hair Removal
Your technician will give you specific instructions for managing hair in the treatment area before your appointment. You should not wax, pluck, or thread hair in the area for several weeks, although you can shave. You should also avoid sun exposure or tanning beds for several weeks.
After treatment, you should baby your skin to reduce the risk of inflammation that could lead to hyperpigmentation. You can use cool compresses on the treated area to soothe irritation. You may also want to apply a topical treatment like aloe vera. Stay out of the sun after treatment and avoid other activities that could irritate your skin.
Regardless of skin tone, laser hair removal usually takes a series of sessions for full results. Laser treatment doesn’t affect every hair at once. Lasers only target the 10% to 15% of hairs that are in the growth phase. You will need further sessions to treat additional hairs as they come into the growth phase.
Laser hair removal is a long-lasting method of dealing with unwanted hair. However, it may not be permanent. Over time, follicles that were previously treated can start growing hair again. Usually, any new hair is thinner and finer than before, and only a few individual hairs grow back. Touch-up treatments can get rid of regrowth.
If you’re searching for laser hair removal for dark skin in NYC, Laser by Monica has you covered. Laser By Monica has a 755 Alexandrite laser and a 1064 Yag laser to offer safe, effective treatment for people of all skin colors.
Our concierge-level services are available to clients in New York City, Manhattan, Murray Hill, and surrounding areas. Our technicians are New York State-certified specialists who can offer safe, personalized laser hair removal for dark skin in Murray Hill and Manhattan.
Ready to get started? Contact Laser by Monica for laser hair removal services in NYC today.