Dark Skin: Is Laser Effective for Permanent Hair Removal?

I'm frequently asked if laser hair removal works for men and women with dark or black skin. Rest assured, it does!

When the appropriate  equipment and treatment parameters are used, almost everyone can benefit from laser hair removal. It is also true, however, that there are special considerations and risks that people with dark skin must be aware of.

Laser hair removal systems are designed to act on the melanin pigment in hair. Dark skin also has melanin pigment, so the laser operator has to be careful to avoid having the laser act on the melanin pigment present in dark skin.

It requires an experienced and highly competent operator with equipment designed to emit the correct type of beam to make sure that the laser does not damage the client's skin. There is a risk of burns, loss of skin pigment (hypo-pigmentation), increased skin pigment (hyper-pigmentation) and potential scarring.

There are lasers that are better suited to working with dark skin. Lasers with longer pulse durations are superior options for clients with dark skin because they allow deep penetration with minimal scattering of laser energy.

It is also necessary that the energy of the laser must be reduced so it only acts on the pigment in the hair. For darker skin types appropriate fluences are generally lower and appropriate pulse widths are generally longer to prevent damage to the epidermis. As a result, a client with dark skin will likely require more treatments than someone with light coloured skin pigment.

An experienced operator will manipulate the energy level and pulse duration specifically to suit the needs of each client, ensuring the best results in the least number of treatments. On average, a reasonable expectation for hair removal on skin of colour would be 8-14 treatments.

Champion Laser requires that each client meet with us for a consultation and test patch before beginning treatment. There is no charge for this consultation and no obligation. At this time we will determine what the treatment process will be for you to get the best results, and discuss this with you along with available options.

In addition to working with the right equipment and designing a program specifically to suit the needs of each client, another key step that Champion Laser employs to ensure that our clients are comfortable is to make sure the skin is cooled effectively. We use a cryogenic spray system as well as a medical Zimmer that blows cold air on the skin being treated for optimal patient comfort. This contributes to quick recovery and reduced redness immediately following treatment.

It is important for people with dark skin to be aware of the risks of working with lasers, and to choose experts to work with that you are confident understand how to treat your skin properly. At Champion Laser we offer free, no obligation laser hair removal consultations – call today for your appointment.