LASER HAIR REMOVAL FOR DARK SKIN TONES: FACT VS. FICTION
Unwanted hair is a common concern that plagues people of all ages, races, and genders. While laser hair removal has been an effective solution for fair-skinned people for years, it hasn’t always been available for darker skin types.
With advances in laser technology, this has changed in recent years. However, there are still several common myths and misconceptions regarding laser hair removal for dark skin tones. Continue reading to discover the truth regarding laser hair removal for darker skin tones and if it is a viable option for you.
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LASER HAIR REMOVAL FOR DARKER SKIN TONES: COMMON MYTHS
MYTH: LASER HAIR REMOVAL IS PAINFUL AND DAMAGES YOUR SKIN
Most men and women are surprised to learn that laser hair removal is relatively pain-free! While a topical anesthetic may be offered to patients, most find the procedure to be quick and painless without it.
When done by a qualified Medical Aesthetician, laser hair removal is considered a safe procedure with generally no side effects or damage to the surrounding skin, and no downtime following the procedure.
MYTH: YOU ONLY NEED 1-2 TREATMENTS
Laser hair removal typically requires six to eight treatments but may require up to 10 sessions depending on where the hair is in its growth cycle at the time of the treatment.
There are three stages of hair growth:
- Anagen stage: growth period
- Catagen stage: transition period between growth and loss
- Telogen stage: hair loss period when space is made for new hair growth
- Laser hair removal is most effective during the anagen stage, so several treatments are necessary to ensure that all of the hair follicles are targeted during this stage.
MYTH: HAIR CAN GROW BACK THICKER
Laser hair removal works by targeting the hair follicle which is responsible for new hair growth. The pigment in the hair absorbs light from the laser, which converts to heat. This process damages the hair follicle and delays or inhibits future hair growth.
Not only does it result in less regrowth, but the regrowth that does occur is typically finer and lighter in color, making it much less visible than before. Laser hair removal is one of the most permanent hair removal techniques used today.
MYTH: LASER HAIR REMOVAL DOESN’T WORK ON ALL HAIR TYPES
Laser hair removal is effective for any hair type, as long as the hair follicles contain melanin (a type of pigment that gi