Generally, laser hair removal can eliminate 90 percent or more of hair growth. Fortunately, most people are candidates. However, despite the advancements in technology, some people don’t do as well with the procedure, such as those with dark skin. But, that doesn’t mean the treatment won’t work for these individuals. Let’s discuss!
How Laser Hair Removal Works
A practitioner will direct a laser toward patches of hair throughout the laser removal process. Melanin, which is the pigment in the hair, absorbs light. The light then converts to heat energy. The heat damages the follicles that serve the purpose of anchoring the hair in place.
At the bottom of the follicle is a bulb responsible for hair growth because this location contains cells that divide to grow hair. The bulb can no longer grow hair because of the damage to the follicle from laser hair removal. While people experience long-term results, hair removal isn’t permanent in most cases. The bulb can eventually recover from the damage, and the hair will resume growing.
Some people experience life-long results. However, the results tend to last for at least two years for most people. Then, the person will need to continue having maintenance appointments to ensure it doesn’t grow back. Even though it’s usually not permanent, the results still last longer than tweezing, shaving, and hair removal creams.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe for All Skin Types?
As a general rule, anybody with any skin tone or type can have laser hair removal safely.
Whom It Works Best On
It works better when there’s greater contrast between your skin and hair. However, you may have the procedure even if you have dark skin and hair.
Avoid Sunlight
Avoid extensive sunlight and tanning beds for a few weeks before your treatment. The laser hair removal treatment will not work as well on tan skin.
Potential for Side Effects
Those with darker complexions are at an increased risk for side effects, though they may still be treated. After the first treatment is completed at the best laser hair removal in NY, they’ll be less at risk.
Some of the possible side effects for those with dark skin include burns, scarring, and hyperpigmentation, even when administered by a licensed practitioner. This is because dark-colored skin cells absorb more heat than fair ones.
Technological Advancements
At one point, this treatment didn’t effectively work on people with dark hair and skin. Moreover, those with dark skin were at a higher risk for burns and other side effects than those with lighter skin. Though this is still somewhat true, the laser now is much safer, more effective, and has fewer chances of side effects than ever before.
How Many Treatments Do You Need if You Have Dark Skin?
The amount of treatments depends on the size of the area being treated. It’s also dependent upon your features.
For instance, someone with fair skin and dark hair generally will need fewer treatments than someone with dark skin and hair. Someone with blonde or red hair and dark skin may not respond well either. Therefore, these individuals will all need more treatments. And those with fine blonde hair may not respond to treatment at all, even with a center that offers the best laser hair removal in NY.
As a general rule, someone will need six to eight treatments to see full results, though some people may need more to experience them. In particular, someone with dark skin will need more treatments than eight to notice the full results.
Before anyone has the procedure, the practitioner will thoroughly evaluate the person and estimate the number of sessions. The practitioner will keep in mind the person’s skin tone, hair color, and the size of the treatment area. The practitioner then shares this information with the patient. This way, the patient can decide whether it’s the right treatment or not.
The type of laser used for the procedure and the patient’s specifics determine the number of treatments. Some lasers work better than others. In addition, some are better for certain people.
Why Is a Consultation Crucial if You Have a Darker Skin Tone?
People require a consultation whether their skin is fair, dark, or in-between. This allows the person to ask the practitioner questions and be informed when deciding if laser treatment is suitable for their hair removal.
The practitioner will have the patient fill out a medical history report during the consultation. From this, they will gain insight into whether the treatment is safe for the patient. The practitioner will also evaluate the person’s skin and determine if laser hair removal is ideal. It also gives the practitioner a chance to formulate a course of action. Patients then receive information regarding what they can expect.
In terms of darker skin tones, the consultation is crucial since the treatment may not be as effective. A person with dark skin is more at risk for side effects than a fairer individual. Plus, certain lasers are more effective on dark-skinned individuals than others.
For example, the long-pulsed 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser technology works best on dark pigmented skin tones. This gives off tiny bursts of light energy quickly. It’s absorbed by the dermis’ deeper levels, which means it can target a darker-skinned person’s hair more effectively.
Diode lasers work best for this skin type as well. This laser uses a single wavelength of light, so the hair can more efficiently absorb the energy. In return, someone with dark skin can absorb it easily.
Factors You Need to Consider Before Choosing an Expert
For the highest level of results, you need to find a spa that offers the best laser hair removal in NY. First and foremost, it’s important to find a practitioner who specializes in your particular hair and skin type. Make sure the individual has had ample patients with your specific features. Be certain to inquire about the practitioner’s education, licenses, and general experience.
In addition to learning more about the practitioner, ask about the practice’s technology, especially if you have dark skin. Ideally, you want a center with a laser that works best for your skin tone, such as mentioned above. Inquire about how modern their equipment is and if it is the latest, a few models behind, or an out-of-date device.
There isn’t a guarantee of what percentage of hair you’ll lose. Patients never rid the area of all hair follicles. Typically, though, you can expect to reduce your hair follicles by 75 or 90 percent.
Some practices, especially those noted for offering the best laser hair removal in NY, may offer guarantees. This way, you’re not paying money for ineffective treatments. You may be able to get your money back if the treatments aren’t successful.
Besides talking to someone at the practice, be certain to read reviews. Here, you can find information about how satisfied previous patients were. You’ll learn about the safety precautions the practice takes and how friendly the staff is, just to name a few aspects.
Avoid selecting a spa solely based on price; less expensive doesn’t mean less reputable. And more expensive doesn’t always mean the best service.
Laser hair removal can help a person achieve long-lasting results. Your skin tone places a role in your results, among other factors. But, more importantly, it’s crucial to choose a knowledgeable laser hair removal spa with experience with your skin tone.
Book an appointment by calling Bared Monkey at 212-256-9777. We can answer any questions you have as well.
