Laser Hair Removal for Skin of Color

For individuals tired of waxing and shaving, laser hair removal can be an excellent way to achieve permanent reduction of unwanted hair on the face or the body.

However, in the past, the “ideal” candidate for this treatment was thought to be a person with a very fair complexion and dark, coarse hair, as the procedure is melanin-focused and targets pigment in hair follicles.

As a result, patients with skin of color have been erroneously told that laser hair removal is not safe for darker skin tones.

When in reality, the treatment can be performed on all skin tones, including those with a high level of melanin.

Keep reading to learn everything patients should know about laser hair removal for skin of color.

What to Look for in Your Laser Hair Removal Provider?

To start, patients should be sure to select a board-certified dermatologist that has extensive experience treating skin of color.

This expertise allows him or her to know how a patient’s skin tone and genetic make-up will interact with a laser treatment.

Additionally, patients with skin of color should also seek a practice that uses an Nd: YAG laser.

This device operates at a long-pulse wavelength, which precisely focuses energy on the melanin in follicles, while bypassing the epidermis.

Consequently, a YAG laser is able to effectively treat the unwanted hair without burning or harming skin.

Ask for a Patch-Test

As a precaution, patients can ask for a patch test prior to laser hair removal. This involves treating a small portion of the body part and observing its reaction at that particular wavelength and setting.

If patients do not suffer from any adverse events, then it’s presumably safe to proceed with a full course of treatment.

What if you’ve had a bad experience with laser hair removal in the past?

Patients with skin of color that have suffered a burn, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, or scarring in the hands of an unqualified provider, should seek a laser specialist like Dr. Eliot Battle if they decide to undergo additional treatments. 

He can assess damage and recommend an appropriate course of action, such as microdermabrasion or creams, to address the issue at hand.

He can also ensure that your next experience with laser hair removal is one that’s safe, effective, and customized to your skin and genetic make-up.

To learn more about laser hair removal for patients with skin of color, please call the Cultura office in Washington DC today to schedule a consultation.

Dr. Eliot Battle

CEO & Founder at Cultura Dermatology & Plastic Surgery

Dr. Eliot Battle, CEO of Cultura Dermatology, is a global leader in cosmetic dermatology and laser innovation. His Harvard research pioneered “color-blind” lasers, making treatments safe for all skin tones. A sought-after expert featured in TIME, Oprah, and The New York Times, he continues to advance inclusive, cutting-edge dermatological care.