AT HOME LASER HAIR REMOVAL FOR DARK SKIN

Most people with dark skin tones can relate to the struggle to find the perfect sunscreen. Similar to to the struggle of finding the one in a million sunscreen that would not leave a white cast (but infinitely worse), laser hair removal, until recently, was not a safe option for dark skin toned people.

Before the recent advancements in technology, laser hair removal was suitable only for people with fair skin and dark hair.  The lasers used for the treatment targets the pigment in the hair, and the difference between dark hair and lighter skin helps the laser to focus on its target. This automatically put anyone with a dark skin tone at risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation.

Devices at that time weren’t advanced enough to tell the difference between the pigment in dark skin and dark hair, which meant they were likely to cause complications like scarring and blisters. Thankfully, in recent times, there are advanced laser devices that, if used in safe ways, can get rid of unwanted hair for a wider range of skin tones.

 

What is laser hair removal ?

Anyone looking to slow down unwanted hair growth on specific parts of their face or body is automatically qualified for laser hair removals. Lasers are able to remove hair from the skin by emitting a beam of light that targets the melanin pigments in hair follicles.

At-home laser hair removal devices are just as effective when used properly and consistently, but the best and safest result from this treatment comes from laser hair removal treatments administered by a professional.

At-home laser hair removal tips

At-home laser hair treatments tend to be cheaper than regularly visiting a clinic but you have to be willing to spend a minimum of 50 to over 400 dollars for a laser device.

Your experience with laser hair removal depends on your skin and hair type. Regardless of this, before you pick up your laser device be sure not to have waxed or tanned days before your treatment. This is because waxing completely removes the root of your hair which needs to be present during your treatment. Tanning days before your treatment on the other hand will not make the laser work like it should.

A safer alternative to waxing before your laser hair removal procedure is to use razors to shave the areas you intend to laser 24 hours before it is done. It is strongly advised to undergo the laser removal procedure when your skin is clean and dry.

Additionally, avoid using skincare actives like Retinols, BHAs and AHAs (exfoliants) days before your treatment to avoid sensitivity and irritation. And if you’ve not been religiously reapplying sunscreen during the day, you should begin to do that days before your treatment.

After your treatment, incase of irritation which is unlikely to occur if done well, use soothing creams or moisturizers to reduce redness and sensitivity. Also use gentle cleansers, moisturizers and sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher in order not to trigger more irritation and for protection.

Best at-home laser hair removal devices for dark skin

There are many great laser devices out there. However you have to be particular about the one you’re picking for your dark skin. Out of the many devices our top picks are:

Philips lumea hair removal

SilkPro Diode Technology Permanent Laser Hair Removal Device

Takeaway

Formerly, Laser hair removals wasn’t a thing people with dark skin tone were encouraged to do because they could end up with scars or discoloration. However, thanks to advanced technology, a wider range of skin tones including dark skin can safely undergo the treatment.

It is always recommended to visit a professional for this procedure for best results, but it is also totally possible to do it at home with little to no complications if done properly.