Laser hair removal has become a go-to for lasting hair reduction. It targets dark pigment in hair follicles with laser beam pulses, zapping the follicle so that the hair ceases to grow. Although laser hair removal can be safe and effective for most, certain factors make some people better candidates for this treatment than others. Before booking your appointment, it’s important to consider whether you meet the criteria for laser hair removal. Here are a few aspects that may determine if this treatment is right for you.
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Hair color
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The ideal hair type for laser hair removal should be dark and coarse enough for the laser to target its pigment.
Laser hair removal may not be effective for people with natural blond, white, gray, or red hair, as well as those with fine hair, due to insufficient melanin in their hair follicles.
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Skin tone
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The best candidates for this hair removal method are those who have fair skin, as the contrast between light skin and dark hair increases the efficiency of the treatment.
Otherwise, the risk of targeting the natural skin pigmentation instead of the hair pigment could result in burning.
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Fortunately, advancements in laser technology have made hair removal a safe and secure choice for people with any skin tone. These latest hair removal lasers, such as our Splendor X laser by Lumenis, now come with adjustable settings designed to accommodate various natural hair color combinations and skin tones, even the darkest shade!
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Sun exposure
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Frequent tanners may not be good candidates for laser hair removal. These are the reasons why:
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Tanned or sunburned skin contains more melanin. This makes it more susceptible to burns or hyperpigmentation from laser treatment.
Sun exposure makes the skin more heat-sensitive. Laser hair removal works by heating hair follicles; therefore, tanned skin is more prone to burns, uneven pigmentation, and scarring.
Tanning can make hair removal less effective since the laser may target the melanin in tanned skin rather than the hair follicles.
It is recommended to avoid sun exposure or tanning for at least two weeks before and after each session to reduce the risks. Additionally, including sunscreen in your daily skincare routine is strongly recommended, as it is a crucial element for maintaining healthy skin.
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Health condition considerations
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Good health is always an important factor when pursuing laser hair treatment. It is essential to inform practitioners about any prior treatments, medications, or recent changes that could potentially impact your treatments. Laser hair removal may not be advised if you have any of these conditions:
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Keloid scar formation
History of melanoma
Active cold sores or herpetic lesions within the treated area
Open lesions
Raised moles
Tattoos or permanent make-up within the treatment area
Autoimmune diseases such as Vitiligo, Scleroderma, Lupus
Pregnant and breastfeeding women
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If you’re interested in exploring laser hair removal and determining if you’re a suitable candidate for this long-lasting hair removal method, book a FREE consultation with 40 Esthetics today!