When it comes to removing unwanted hair on the body, every method has its pros and cons. Laser hair removal is fast becoming a popular choice for those looking for an effective and more permanent solution, but there are many things that still need to be clarified about the procedure.
First of all, what is laser hair removal and how does it work? It is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to remove unwanted hair. The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. This damages it and prevents future hair growth. The procedure can be used to remove hair on almost any part of the body, including the face, arms, legs, bikini area, back, and chest.
Laser hair removal is a popular alternative to traditional hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing, and threading as it provides a more permanent solution with less maintenance and fewer side effects. However, multiple treatments are required to achieve optimal results, as hair growth occurs in cycles, and not all hair is actively growing at the same time.
There’s also a common misconception that laser hair removal doesn’t work for dark skin tones, or has negative effects. This has led many dark-skinned beauties to avoid laser hair removal treatments, erroneously believing that it doesn’t work on their skin or that it will cause skin damage.
We clear all this up below, as well as other myths about laser hair removal for dark skin tones.
Fact: Laser hair removal is not a completely permanent solution for hair removal, especially for those with darker skin tones. However, it does provide long-lasting results with significant hair reduction, especially compared to shaving and waxing.
At Supersmooth, we specialise in laser hair removal for dark skin tone clients. Using our OLED laser technology, the procedure is effective, painless, and long-lasting. The laser targets and damages only the hair follicle, totally bypassing the skin.
Myth #2: Laser hair removal is not effective for dark skin.
Fact: This used to be a fact in the late 90s and early 2000s because lasers were initially not developed with dark skin tones in mind and were safer/more effective to use on those with light skin and dark hair follicles. Today, advances in laser technology have now made it possible to treat all skin types and tones effectively.
Fact: This is not completely a myth as there tends to be a higher risk of skin damage (burns, scarring, hypopigmentation) with certain laser and IPL technology for those with dark skin. This is because dark skin has more melanin than fair skin. Some lasers cannot differentiate between melanin and the hair follicle, thus damaging the skin in the process.
If you have dark skin, the most important thing to consider when trying laser hair removal is the technology used. Modern laser hair removal technology has evolved significantly and now uses specific wavelengths of light that target hair follicles while bypassing the skin and melanin. The laser also typically has a cooling mechanism to help protect the skin during treatment. Therefore, it’s no longer true that all laser hair removal causes significant damage to dark skin.
For example, Supersmooth’s “Quantum Dots Technology” is Asia’s first known technique for treating richer and darker skin tones to avoid any damage to the skin.
Fact: This is not true. Laser hair removal is a popular treatment for both men and women with dark skin tones who want to get rid of unwanted hair.
Fact: This is a relative statement, but overall, laser hair removal is more affordable and economical than you might think, especially when compared to the cost of a lifetime of waxing or shaving. Due to modern technology that effectively removes hair for those with dark skin, it is not any more expensive than it is for those with light skin.
Fact: This is not true when the treatment is performed correctly by a qualified technician using an appropriate type of laser. Discolouration is a rare side effect and is usually temporary, whether or not you have dark or fair skin.
In fact, existing skin discolouration and hyperpigmentation caused by shaving or other skin issues can drastically improve with regular laser hair removal, as the treatment prevents hair follicles from becoming inflamed.
Fact: Compared to other methods, laser hair removal requires commitment and is not a quick fix. Hair grows in cycles, so multiple treatments are required to achieve optimal results. Most people with dark skin require between 6-8 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Fact: This is not true. Laser hair removal targets the hair follicle, which destroys it, causing the hair to grow back thinner or not at all.
Fact: Laser hair removal does use radiation, but it is not the same type of radiation that is used in medical imaging (such as X-rays) which can potentially damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer. Laser hair removal radiation is considered safe for cosmetic use, as the light energy is focused on a specific area of the skin and does not penetrate deep into the body.
Fact: Laser hair removal may cause mild discomfort but it is generally not a painful procedure. Many modern laser systems have integrated cooling technologies that can help minimise discomfort during treatment.
In fact, whether or not you have dark skin, it is less painful than waxing and simply feels like your skin is being snapped with a rubber band. Afterward, you may experience some redness and irritation (like a mild sunburn), but it typically resolves within a few hours. Most people are able to resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
Are you interested in trying laser hair removal? Get in touch with our qualified technicians and book a free consultation today.
