The Nd:YAG laser system is ideal for long-term hair removal in people with dark skin. In this article,
we looked at the different skin phototypes and which type of laser is best suited for them. For laser hair removal in IV, V and VI phototypes, it is extremely important what type of laser system is used, since if it is selected incorrectly, reactions such as hyperpigmentation and burning may occur. What is the reason for this? Laser systems with shorter wavelengths can damage skin that is ”rich” in melanin, since they target the melanin in the hair and thus successfully affect the root of the hair follicle.
The Nd:YAG laser is specially designed for hair removal in darker skin types, as it is configured for a certain longer wavelength – 1064 nm.
The Nd:YAG laser has other applications, such as treating onychomycosis (nail fungus), removing fine capillaries, etc. So, the question of why Nd:YAG is used for hair removal is important, especially if you have dark skin.
How does the Nd:Yag laser work on dark skin?
It should be kept in mind that laser hair removal works differently for light and dark skin. Different lasers are used for each skin type – lighter skin types are usually treated with the gold standard in laser hair removal – an alexandrite laser or the less powerful – a diode laser. For darker skin types, the Nd:YAG laser is suitable. On the other hand, the Nd:YAG laser system, which penetrates deeper into the skin and targets the blood supply to the hair follicle. The alexandrite laser, on the other hand, “targets” melanin. For this reason, this type of laser is not absorbed as much by the pigment in the skin, but destroys only the hair, leaving the surrounding skin unaffected.
The Nd:YAG laser penetrates 4-5 mm deep into the skin, while the hair follicles are located 3-4 mm deep. The base of the hair follicle is located at the ideal depth, which is needed for the laser to effectively target the blood supply.
Why is Alexandrite laser not suitable for dark skin?
This type of laser works with a 755 nm wavelength, which allows it to reach only the base of the hair. On lighter skin, Alexandrite laser hair removal works by absorbing energy in hairs containing melanin (the darker hairs), i.e. if there is a tan in the skin or the skin is darker, the absorption of energy from the laser is high and the likelihood of a strong reaction and skin damage after Alexandrite laser hair removal is high. That is why it is important for dark skin to have laser hair removal performed with an Nd:YAG laser.
Laser hair removal is safe for all skin types
An important clarification that should be made for all skin types – when a consultation is carried out before the procedure, the correct parameters are selected by qualified specialists, and the skin is cared for after laser hair removal, it will be safe for every skin type. At LAVEDY laser studio, thanks to the work standards we adhere to and the professional qualifications of our aesthetic specialists, guarantees, first and foremost, safe and effective laser hair removal, fully tailored to the needs and skin condition of each client.
The choice of parameters, post-procedure skin care and realistic expectations for the effect are important in laser hair removal. More treatments may be required for darker skin types, given the different type of work of the Nd:YAG laser, but the results are worth the patience.
Do I need a consultation and a patch test?
Консултацията предоставя възможност, заедно с нашите естетични специалисти да се обясни обстойно всичко необходимо за лазерната епилация:
- what are the skin care after the procedure;
- what are the realistic expectations;
- to establish the current condition of the skin – presence of a tan, type of hair (light or dark).
The consultation period should be relaxing and calm for each client, this is one of the principles of work woven into LAVEDY laser studio.
During the free consultation, it is desirable to perform a patch test on a small area of the area chosen by the client. This test helps to correctly select parameters for your skin and hair type, to ensure a safe procedure and to eliminate a future acute skin reaction.
Another advantage of the patch test, which is a compliment from us to you, is that it gives you the opportunity to feel the laser – what does it feel like, is there any slight discomfort or not. As a result, you come to your first procedure much calmer, since the concern – does laser hair removal hurt – is eliminated.
Instead of a conclusion - don't delay starting laser hair removal
A quick tip from our experts – don’t put off laser hair removal. As a specialized studio, we perform procedures on every skin type and our qualified specialists work safely and of course with great results.
We work hard to ensure the effectiveness of the procedures, you will not feel rushed or neglected. Each individual client is special and their condition and time spent in our studio are important. Start laser hair removal as soon as possible to enjoy your beautiful and healthy skin longer.
Trust us, we are LAVEDY laser studio.
