For self confidence that can be boosted by getting rid of unwanted body hair, laser hair removal is a safe and effective method for dramatically reducing hair permanently. However, for a long time, it was not recommended for people with darker skin tones, such as African-American, Asian, Latin, and other ethnic groups. Since the lasers target melanin in hair follicles, it could not differentiate between melanin in the hair and in darker skin. Therefore, darker skin tones were at risk for damage.
Advanced Laser Hair Removal for Darker Skin
Today, laser hair removal has been made safe and effective for darker skin tones using advanced laser and light-based technology. Darker skin tones are treated using laser light with long wavelengths and pulse widths such as the Nd: YAG 1064nm laser. Lighter ethnic skin tones can be treated using shorter wavelength lasers like the 810nm Diode laser, but this is may still cause epidermal damage to darker skin tones. For the 810nm Diode laser to work efficiently on darker skin, it requires proper cooling attachments combined with precise and expanded pulses. The Nd: YAG 1064nm laser, used at BodyLase, is a better choice because the laser light travels beneath the surface to reach melanin in the hair follicles without damaging skin pigments. Hence, it is most useful for darker, ethnic skin tones.
Ethnic, especially African-American skin is more prone to skin and hair conditions such as razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae), itchy patches, and ingrown hairs. Advanced Laser hair removal treatments are non-invasive and safely and address these skin conditions, giving ethnic patients smooth, hairless skin. For effective and safe treatment, seek advice and treatment from a clinic that is experienced and knowledgeable about laser hair removal for ethnic and darker skin.
For more information on whether laser hair removal or to schedule an appointment contact BodyLase at 919-954-2288 (Raleigh) or 919-851-8989 (Cary).
