Does Laser Hair Removal Darken Skin of Color?

Laser hair removal is the perfect choice for people who have grown tired of painful waxing and plucking. You can address problems such as unwanted hair and ingrown hairs with just a few simple sessions. However, people with ethnic skin are sometimes told that laser hair removal causes problems like discoloration or burning. Patients at our clinic often ask – what is laser hair removal, and what are the most common side effects for people of color?

Lasers produce beams of concentrated light that target the melanin in our hair follicles without harming the surrounding skin. At Dermatology Southeast, our team is proud to work with patients of all backgrounds and skin tones. When you visit our professionals in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL, we can guide you through the process and let you know if you qualify for treatment.

What is laser hair removal?

There is no right or wrong when it comes to laser hair removal. Many individuals choose to eliminate excess hair from their legs and underarms, while others target the chest and bikini line. So, what is laser hair removal? This procedure uses special technology that targets the pigment in our hair follicles. Our hair absorbs the light and converts it into heat, which is what prevents future hair growth. Some of the many advantages of laser hair removal include:

• Effective

• Safe

• Considered pain-free by patients

• Long-term hair reduction results

• No more ingrown hairs

Laser hair removal for skin of color

Until recently, most laser treatments were only deemed appropriate for people with light skin and dark hair. This is because the technology tended to damage pigmented skin. Now patients can enjoy effective results without damaging laser hair removal side effects in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL. Dermatology Southeast can perform a thorough assessment and takes every precaution to make sure you will not experience discoloration.

Laser hair removal side effects

While this is a simple procedure, patients should still expect some minor laser hair removal side effects. To minimize your risk as much as possible, we ask that you come to your sessions free from creams and topical lotions. Because the laser leaves your skin feeling sensitive, we also suggest avoiding sun exposure for several days before and after each appointment and using a high-SPF sunscreen whenever you go outside. Patients can use cold packs at home to treat any discomfort following their appointment.

Laser hair removal for ethnic skin

It is a common misconception that laser treatments will not work for people with ethnic skin. While this could have been true years ago, the state-of-the-art technology used today is effective in even the darkest skin tones. If you have questions or concerns, our experts can examine your skin and provide options in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL.

When performed properly, laser hair removal has a proven track record of safety. There are no long-term risks involved, and nearly anyone can benefit. When you are ready to get rid of unwanted hair and stop the endless cycle of shaving and waxing, contact Dermatology Southeast.