Many people choose laser hair removal because it provides long-lasting results and is convenient. The laser targets and destroys hair follicles, slowing hair growth and eliminating hair. In the past, however, this option was only available to fair-skinned people. Those with dark skin unfortunately had to resort to shaving, waxing or epilation.
How nice it would have been if this option had been available to everyone, right? Well, now the time has finally come. In this article, we will explain the reliability of laser hair removal for people with dark skin, its costs and possible risks.
Is laser hair removal suitable for dark skin?
When laser hair removal was introduced in the past, it was only possible for people with light skin. The lasers used for hair removal depend on the melanin in the hair. But if the skin color is too dark, the laser was not able to distinguish between skin and hair pigment. So there was a risk that the laser would attack the skin and cause skin burns .
Fortunately, there are now some lasers available with longer wavelengths that can be used on darker skin tones without causing damage. The longer wavelength lasers have less energy and penetrate the skin better without damaging it.
So, yes! Even people with dark skin can undergo laser hair removal to get a hairless, smooth body.
What are the best lasers for dark skin?
There are different types of lasers used for different skin and hair treatments. Ruby lasers, Alexandrite lasers, diode lasers and Nd:YAG lasers are mainly used for hair removal. The type of laser depends on the skin type. The following lasers are best suited for dark skin.
Nd:YAG laser
The best laser for darker skin tones is the Nd:YAG laser. It has a longer wavelength of 1064 nm. This gives it an advantage over other lasers as it can penetrate deeply without damaging the surface of the skin. This means that the Nd:YAG laser safely bypasses skin pigments when removing hair and only attacks the melanin in the hair follicles deep within the skin.
Diode laser
Another laser that can be used on dark skin is the diode laser. Although this laser can be used, it is only safe for people up to 4 levels on the Fitzpatrick scale (a scale for measuring skin type with a total of 6 tones). It is a bit complicated to use because the doctor has to release the energy slowly per pulse and give the skin time to cool down.
So if you have a skin tone between 1 and 4, you can opt for a diode laser, but make sure the practitioner is experienced enough to use it.
Cost of laser hair removal for dark skin
The cost of laser hair removal for each skin tone depends mainly on the location, treatment area, number of sessions and treatment area. People with darker skin tones usually require more sessions than people with light skin and dark hair.
On average, the cost of a single session is between 200 and 1000 euros, depending on the area to be treated with laser hair removal. You may need at least 6 sessions or even more.
In addition, it is a cosmetic procedure, so health insurance will not cover these costs. To learn more about the details of laser hair removal for each body part, please click on How much does laser hair removal cost?
Risks of laser hair removal for dark skin
Laser hair removal is now safe for everyone, but there are still some potential risks to be aware of. Let's get to know them in more detail.
Changes in pigmentation
After laser hair removal, there is a risk of hyperpigmentation or even hypopigmentation. Hyperpigmentation may be due to the wrong laser used for the treatment or the body's reaction to the heat energy. In addition, hypopigmentation may also occur due to the damage to the skin around the treated area.
Excessive hair growth
Although you can get laser treatment to reduce hair, in some cases it can have the opposite effect. Some say the exact cause is unknown, while others say it could be because hair follicles sometimes become more active after the first few sessions. This is rare, but it is still important to be aware of any potential side effects.
Skin burns and scarring
As mentioned above, laser hair removal depends on the compatibility of the laser with the skin type. However, if the wrong laser is used for darker skin tones, it can cause skin burns and even scarring. This can also be due to a doctor's error.
Precautions before laser hair removal
arrange an appointment for consultation
Anyone can undergo laser hair removal these days without any problem. However, for people with dark skin, it is best to take some precautions. When choosing the right place for your treatment, you should schedule a consultation first.
Ask the doctor about their experience, the type of laser they will use, and any creams or medications you may need. You can also ask to see the results of previous treatments to make sure the treatment is safe.
Patch test
Even if the doctors are competent enough, it is recommended to do a patch test first. You can ask the doctor to do the procedure on any area first and then wait for 2-3 days. This will help you decide whether the procedure is suitable for you or not.
Shave before treatment
It is recommended to shave before laser hair removal. This will minimize the risk of burns, discomfort and pain. Doctors usually prefer that the laser does not reach the skin above the hair follicles, so that shaving removes the hair above the skin. This way you are safe from burns. Also, do not shave a few hours before the treatment, but rather the day before.
Avoid chemical products
Finally, avoid products containing retinol, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. These chemicals can make the skin more sensitive and prone to reactions after laser treatment.
Aftercare for laser hair removal for dark skin
Cold compresses
After treatment, you may experience irritation or inflammation, so you can apply cold compresses to your skin to soothe it and reduce inflammation. Instead of applying the ice directly, use a towel or other clean cloth to pick up the ice and place it on the area.
Avoid direct sunlight
After laser hair removal, the skin is sensitive and needs time to heal. Direct exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of sunburn and hyperpigmentation, so you should avoid going outside for a few days. However, if you must go outside, make sure you apply sunscreen and wear a hat and clothes that cover your whole body.
Avoid bleaching, plucking or waxing
If you bleach before your appointment, it will affect your pigments, making the hair removal procedure more difficult. Also, your hair follicles must have hair for an effective result, but plucking or waxing will remove it completely, rendering the procedure ineffective.
Interrupt training
Laser hair removal makes hair follicles sensitive. When you exercise, sweat can irritate them or allow bacteria to enter. In addition, the heat generated can cause itching and rashes. Therefore, avoid any physical activity for 24 hours and then slowly start with light exercise.
Is there a home laser hair removal device for dark skin?
Laser hair removal itself is difficult to perform, especially with the diode or Nd:YAG laser for dark skin, so it is mostly offered in clinics. If you want to have a laser hair removal device at home, unfortunately, no devices are safe enough to use on dark skin. But you can opt for IPL devices instead.
IPL devices like the Ulike Saphir Air3 IPL device can achieve smooth skin in just 12 weeks without any pain. Its cooling technology soothes the skin and the device only lasts for 12 minutes per session. It is suitable for people with light skin. For darker skin tones, you can opt for one of these devices:
Silk'n Infinity
The Silk'n Infinity is clinically proven to show 92% of results after all treatments. It is suitable for all skin types. It also has a Bluetooth pulse counter, so if you want home hair removal for dark skin, you can go for the Silk' n Infinity.
Braun Pro 5 IPL device
Alternatively, you can also try the Braun Pro 5 IPL device, which is also suitable for all skin types and is FDA approved, so it is completely safe to use. You can see visible hair reduction in just 4 weeks. It can also work for over 20 years. For a detailed review, please click on Braun IPL Review.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal for dark skin is now as effective as that for light skin tone. Typically, the Nd:YAG laser is used, while the diode laser can also be used for up to a certain skin tone. The cost is up to €1,000 per session, and people with dark skin tone require more sessions. Although laser hair removal does carry some risks, these can be minimized with proper research, a small patch test, and taking care of the skin before and after the procedure.
Unfortunately, there are currently no laser hair removal devices for dark skin types, but some IPL devices such as Braun and Silk'n Infinity are available that are suitable for all skin types.
