Removing unwanted hair is an essential part of any beauty routine, but for those with lighter skin tones and/or lighter hairs, there are some special considerations to take into account when it comes to laser hair removal. Waxing is a better option for light-colored hair, as lasers cannot target fine, blond hairs. The contrast between fair skin and dark hair makes it easy for lasers to attack melanin, but for patients with darker skin tones, the hair and skin may be too similar in color for the laser to have adequate efficacy. For dark hair and fair skin, the low wavelength range (650 to 700 nm) can be used without risk of serious damage to the epidermis and subsequent hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation.
Whereas, for lighter hair and darker skin, longer wavelengths (800 nm or more), with a spot size of 15 dots, are recommended. The spot size is the size of the laser probe or head. If a small spot is used, more light is likely to be scattered outside the treatment area, while if a larger spot is used, light dispersion is reduced, resulting in a greater depth of penetration. It is important to individualize the treatment parameters for each patient depending on skin type and hair growth.
Most complications can be prevented by taking appropriate precautions during the procedure, adjusting creep, spot size, and wavelength, and using appropriate cooling methods. During the active phase, hair grows actively and new hair follicles are constantly being added. Laser hair removal only works when the hair follicle is intact and properly damaged by the laser; if the follicle is not present, it will simply grow back. Since its introduction in the late 1990s, laser hair removal has been successfully reducing unwanted hair with minimal side effects.
While this type of laser may be the right depth of penetration for some people, there is still a risk of burns in darker skin types. Before any laser hair removal procedure, a quality consultation with the client is necessary which should include conversations about their skin type, expectations, and conditions that may affect the outcome of the treatment. Advances in laser and light-based technology have provided treatment providers with the tools needed to perform safe and effective hair removal treatments on a variety of skin types. Laser hair treatment is a relatively new procedure whose treatments date back to the early 90s.
The roles of melanin and hair growth are clearly defined in laser hair removal making it much safer and more effective for ethnic skin tones. The ability to gain self-confidence by removing hair in embarrassing places and freeing yourself from the monotony of shaving are just a few of the benefits people seek with laser hair removal. Women with excess body or facial hair may consider laser hair removal as their preferred method of hair removal. Laser extraction is usually quick due to its ability to cover a large treatment area with just a few light passes.
Fast and painless, laser hair removal can provide long-term results when done correctly. However, it is important to remember that it only works when the hair follicle is intact and properly damaged by the laser; if not present, it will simply grow back.