Since laser hair removal first hit the market in 1998, it has become one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the United States, according to WebMD. The wish to permanently remove unwanted hair is prevalent, but shaving and waxing can be time consuming or costly. While technology has improved in just a few decades, not everyone is a perfect candidate for laser hair removal. Here we detail who makes an excellent candidate for laser hair removal and who should consider other methods for hair removal.
Who is a good candidate for laser hair removal?
Several factors go into making someone a good candidate for laser hair removal. To understand these factors, it’s important to understand how lasers work when targeting hair. Lasers are a type of pulsing light that is very intense. This light targets the melanin in the hair, which is what gives the hair its color. By targeting the melanin, the laser is able to break down the hair follicle at the end of the hair under the skin without damaging the skin. With that in mind, your specific hair and skin types make a difference in the effectiveness of laser hair removal.
Hair and Skin Type – The ideal hair type for laser hair removal is dark and coarse. However, with the changes in technology, laser hair removal can work on some types of lighter hairs. The best candidates for this type of hair removal are those who have pale skin and dark hair. The contrast between light skin and dark hair allows the melanin to be easily targeted. Blond, fine hairs cannot be targeted by the lasers and therefore, cannot be removed with this method. Waxing is a better choice for light colored hair. Individuals with darker skin tones or who tan easily, may have a harder time getting results from laser hair removal. This does not mean there aren’t options. More recent laser hair removal technology can target lower contrast hair to skin tone types. The Fitzpatrick table is used when evaluating hair and skin types for laser hair removal.
Treatment Area– When deciding if laser hair removal is right for you, consider the treatment area. Laser hair removal is excellent for larger areas of skin such as underarms, legs, arms, and back. This does not, however, rule out facial hair such as the upper lip and chin or the bikini area, all of which see good results from lasers. Laser hair removal is best for groupings of hair that need to be permanently removed over the occasional hair here and there.
Who is NOT a good candidate for laser hair removal?
This leaves us with questions about who is not a good candidate for laser hair removal. As we mentioned, light, fine hair does not respond well to laser treatments. Also, areas close to the eyes should be avoided, such as between the eyebrows, as even with protection there is an added risk of the lasers damaging your eyes. Lastly, just as a precaution pregnant or nursing women should forgo laser hair removal to not cause harm to their child. Even though there is no evidence to substantiate any harm would happen, it’s better to be cautious.
If you’re ready to take the plunge into laser hair treatments, contact Allura for a free consultation to see if you’re a good candidate and create the ideal hair removal plan for you!
FAQs
The best candidates for this type of hair removal are those who have pale skin and dark hair. The contrast between light skin and dark hair allows the melanin to be easily targeted. Blond, fine hairs cannot be targeted by the lasers and therefore, cannot be removed with this method.
Who are the best candidates for laser hair removal? ›
Characteristics of a Good Candidate
Laser hair removal works best on individuals with a significant contrast between their hair color and skin tone. This means that those with light skin and dark hair often see the most pronounced results.
Who is not suitable for laser hair removal? ›
Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
- Are pregnant.
- Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
- Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
- Have keloid scars (raised scars).
- Have or have had skin cancer.
The 30 to 54 segment dominated the market in 2021, and is expected to continue this trend throughout the forecast period, owing to increase in disposable income, and rise in number of laser hair removal procedures among population aged 30 to 54.
Who would benefit from laser hair removal? ›
Keep in mind that while laser hair removal works on all different skin tones, it is most effective on people with light skin and dark hair. People with darker skin tones may experience temporary hyperpigmentation of the skin in the treated area.
Who is not suitable for laser? ›
Certain conditions, such as autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), immunodeficiency states (e.g., HIV) and diabetes, and some medications (e.g., retinoic acid and steroids) may prevent proper healing after a refractive procedure. You actively participate in contact sports.
What makes you a bad candidate for laser hair removal? ›
Who Should Avoid Laser Hair Removal. People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.
Who does laser hair removal work best for? ›
Laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair, but it can be successfully used on all skin types.
Do most celebrities get laser hair removal? ›
For people who want to remove unwanted hair, laser hair removal is an extremely popular procedure, with millions of satisfied customers who swear by it. And yes, many of these customers are celebrities.
How successful is laser hair removal business? ›
Laser hair removal is a lucrative and growing industry that offers many opportunities for entrepreneurs who want to start their own business. However, it also requires careful planning, research, and analysis to ensure profitability and success.
Effects can range from mild skin burns to irreversible injury to the skin and eye. The biological damage caused by lasers is produced through thermal, acoustical and photochemical processes. Thermal effects are caused by a rise in temperature following absorption of laser energy.
Are there any side effects of laser hair removal? ›
Other potential side effects include swelling, redness, and scarring. Permanent scarring or changes in skin color are rare. Blisters are rare but are more likely in people with darker complexions. Another rare side effect is the treated hair turning gray or more hair growing around the treated areas.
Is laser hair removal safe for private parts? ›
In fact, laser hair removal is an effective way to get rid of 80-90% of your dark hair growth. And so this also applies to the male pubic area. Men come to The Laser Clinic for intimate area hair removal for a variety of personal reasons. For example, you may suffer from shaving irritation, red bumps and ingrown hairs.
Who is a candidate for laser? ›
The best candidates for lasers include people who have mildly sagging skin, shallow acne or chickenpox scars, sun-damaged or leathery skin, or fine lines or wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
Who is suitable for laser surgery? ›
The ideal laser patient is over 18 years of age since the refractive error is more likely to change below this age. Some patients over the age of 21 are still experiencing a high prescription, making them unsuitable for LASIK or PRK.
What type of hair responds best to laser treatment? ›
Coarse hair responds better than fine, or vellus, hair. It really doesn't matter that much if you have thinner hair, the laser is seeking the pigment, not the density of the hair follicle.
Who is a good candidate for laser hair removal?