Laser Hair Removal for Black Skin in Largo, Maryland: Does It Work? Is It Safe?
Hair removal shouldn’t be as complicated as it is. Luckily, laser hair removal (LHR) can take the stress out of it with long-lasting results.
But, does laser hair removal for Black skin in Largo, Maryland really work? More importantly, is it safe? Here’s what you need to know!
First Things First, What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a hair reduction technique that uses a concentrated beam of light, a laser, to target either the pigment in your follicle or the follicle itself. The laser then directs high levels of heat and energy to the follicle to damage or destroy it entirely, resulting in prolonged hair removal.
Because laser systems in the past would strictly target melanin, laser hair removal used to be incredibly dangerous for patients with Black skin as it would burn the skin surrounding hair follicles too.
Thankfully, this is no longer the case with increasingly more laser systems making their devices safe for use on virtually any skin tone. Still, safe and successful LHR for medium to dark skin is limited to two lasers.
What Lasers Are Safest for Black Skin?
There are currently two lasers that are viewed to be the safest for dark skin: diode and Nd:YAG. Both have their own unique pros and cons but have proven to be the most reliable, effective, and safest for Black patients.
Nd:YAG is considered to work the best on darker skin tones. This is because its wavelength reaches deeper into the skin compared to most lasers, even diode. Because of this, it bypasses the melanin in your skin and focuses only on the hair follicle.
The diode laser has its perks as well, suitable for skin tones ranging from light to deep. Its energy is delivered in a slower, more controlled manner than other lasers, giving the skin time to cool between zaps. This prevents burning, and it keeps skin damage to a minimum while still delivering effective hair removal.
How Do You Prepare for Laser Hair Removal? Is There Much to Do?
Preparation for LHR is actually quite easy. It’s important that patients of color find a reputable, experienced laser technician, so that’s the first step you should take. A good laser tech who has worked with Black skin many times will steer you in the right direction for safe LHR
To find a reputable laser technician, start by asking friends and family members who have received laser hair removal in the past and what their experience was like. Then, start researching LHR providers in your area. Read their reviews, check their social media pages, and view before / afters of Black patients.
Make sure that your laser technician is board certified and has received the necessary training, licenses, and certifications to administer laser hair removal. Consider doing a patch test with the laser in a discreet area as well to ensure that your skin responds well to it.
Other steps you’ll be advised to take before your LHR appointment are to shave 24 hours in advance and avoid UV exposure. In the event you can’t stay out of the sun, wear protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat and an SPF of 30 or higher to avoid sunburns.
Choose Visage for Safe, Beautiful Laser Hair Removal for Black Skin in Largo, Maryland!
To learn more about laser hair removal for Black skin in Largo, Maryland including whether it’s right for you, consult with Dr. St. Surin-Lord today! Our mission is to provide comprehensive, customizable treatments for all of our patients regardless of skin type or tone.
Get in touch and schedule your consultation now by calling 301-358-3304!