Are You A Good Candidate For Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal has become very popular lately. But are you a good candidate for it? There are many nuances to unpack here. Things like the hair type or skin types matter. The types of laser technology used also becomes crucial here. It’s a method that can be time consuming, not ideal for busy people. 

Laser hair removal is a safe procedure. It works great for darker hair. However, some skin tones that are lighter are less ideal. What makes an ideal body for laser hair removal? We will help you identify all this information and unpack it in the article.

Understanding Skin Types for LHR

It’s a good idea to know who is suitable for LHR. Generally, dark hair and light skin are ideal. If you have light hair and darker skin, that might be a problem. Laser hair removal is not ideal for lighter hair. However, darker hair in general will be easier to handle and remove.

What is your skin type?

If you want to know your skin type, the Fitzpatrick scale helps. It’s a scale designed to help you narrow down your skin type, and you can identify that with a few important tests.

Fitzpatrick Scale	Specifics
1	Skin that never tabs
2	Skin that never tank and light brown hair
3	Common skin, with a medium tone
4	Brown skin that doesn’t burn
5	Skin that never burns, with black hair
6	Darkest tone, with black hair

Hair Type Considerations

Who should go for laser hair removal? It depends on the hair type. Whether you want a bikini area or upper lip removal, it matters. You want to know if the hair type is crucial for the procedure. And in this case, it is. Generally, darker hair will be easier to remove. So if you have dark body hair, it helps a lot. You are an ideal candidate for laser hair removal.

When the hair is lighter, that becomes an issue. The lighter color makes it easier for the laser to target hair follicles. And that means it might remove some hair, but not all. White, gray, red or light blond hair are hard to remove. It’s not going to be extremely difficult, but it has challenges.

Laser Technology and Its Suitability

Rubys

The ruby laser is basically a solid state laser. That uses a synthetic ruby crystal for the laser medium. It can be a very good option for excessive body hair removal. Fitzpatrick types 1 to ¾ will be suitable for this method. Treatments need to be repeated every 1-2 months as well. It’s recommended to avoid sun exposure with this method, and also ensure that you use sunscreen if possible to prevent problems.

Alexandrite

The Alexandrite laser is directing the laser beam to the follicle. It has a direct approach, since it will heat the pigment and affect it adequately. It doesn’t damage the skin surface. Usually, it can cover Fitzpatrick scale 1-5 people. It’s better than many standard devices. Those go up to type 3.

Diode laser

The diode laser option is excellent for darker hair. It works very well with brown or black hair. However, if you choose to use it on lighter hair, that becomes more difficult. It’s a very good solution, but it will not work on every hair type. However, on those supported hair types, it delivers excellent results.

Nd:YAG

Nd:YAG is a crystal used for many solid state lasers. Nd:YAG is very good for people that have a darker skin. In addition, it lowers the chances of discoloration, burns and scarring. It can help with scales up to the Fitzpatrick scale 6. That makes it very powerful, comprehensive and great for diverse skin types.

Regardless of what kind of laser tech you use, talk with an expert first. Even if you are a great candidate for laser hair, you want to check with experts. Work closely with a board certified dermatologist and ensure everything works smoothly. A good candidate for laser removal might also have some caveats and side effects. Check the types of laser technology and see what works in your case.

Assessing Your Candidacy

Every person has different requirements and issues when it comes to laser hair removal. The ideal body for laser hair removal can vary. But darker hair is usually better, and a lighter skin color. There are some laser types like Nd:YAG that work on darker skin too. You always want to consult with professionals before you decide.

Laser hair removal can be time-consuming, but it also works extremely well. It removes hair in the long run, and it helps convey an excellent value. Shaving, waxing can all be great. But laser hair removal is even better, and it can be super consistent in the long term.

FAQs

Who should not get laser hair removal?

You shouldn’t go for laser hair removal if you have skin disorders or if you are pregnant. Same thing is valid for light hair colors or active skin infections. People that tan often should avoid LHR too.

Which areas of the body are suitable for laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is ideal if you want to remove hair from your legs, chest, bikini area, abdomen or neck. It can also be good for your back, face or chest.

Are there any long term side effects of laser hair removal?

Generally, there are no long term side effects. You can have some skin rashes or redness. However, these tend to disappear very quickly. Talking with a medical professional is ideal if you want to avoid any complications or potential side effects.  

Who Cannot use IPL hair removal?

IPL is not recommended for pregnant women. People with a dark skin, those that have tattoos, or certain medical conditions shouldn’t use it either.