LASER HAIR REMOVAL FOR DARK SKIN MANHATTAN

Laser hair removal involves the use of pinpoint beams of light to destroy the hair follicles by heating them. The wavelength and spot sizes can be varied depending on the area being treated. The ultimate result is heating the melanin in the hair follicle, which is what causes hair growth, without heating the surrounding skin. This way hair growth is stopped without causing damage to the skin. 

Because laser treatment targets melanin, it is the contrast between the hair pigment and skin tone that allows the technician to identify and target the hair follicle. For individuals with darker skin tones, it can be difficult for some lasers to distinguish between skin tone and hair pigment. The result can be unfortunate scarring, blistering and skin discoloration after treatment. At Le Parlour, our experience with dark skin tones and the customizable features of the Cynosure Elite+ laser platform allow us to provide services for all skin types, even dark skinned individuals, making us one of the most all-inclusive treatment centers in New York City. To learn more see our full guide to laser hair removal for dark skin. 

Due to the stages of individual hair growth it generally takes 6 to 9 sessions to attain your desired results. Everyone is different and a personalized treatment package will be outlined in your consultation with our hair removal experts. Call to request a consultation today at our boutique laser spa in Manhattan

Laser hair removal can have many benefits for any skin tone, but when performed by trained technicians at Le Parlour using the advanced Cynosure Elite+ platform it is particularly beneficial for men, women and nonbinary individuals with dark skin. 

·       Quick and convenient – the procedure can be performed in just a few minutes and it requires no downtime, so it’s easy to fit into your busy schedule.

·       Reduce ingrown hairs – shaving and waxing can result in ingrown hair, which may lead to painful bumps, scarring or even infection. Laser hair removal can reduce incidence of unsightly and painful ingrown hair.

·       Gentle and effective – using gentle pulses of light to target and destroy hair follicles, laser hair removal leaves you with soft, smooth skin without the irritation often caused by shaving.

·       Long lasting – while shaving and waxing only provide temporary relief, the results of laser hair removal can last for weeks or even months and the hair that grows back will be lighter and finer.

It can take 6 to 9 sessions to achieve your desired results due to the stages of individual hair growth.  It’s important to remember that, while laser hair removal is marketed as “permanent”, you will likely need follow-up treatments in the future to maintain the desired look. The cost of laser hair removal will vary depending on the exact areas that require treatment, but it can range anywhere from $100-$350.

Our hair growth happens in different cycles, each time there is a growth cycle, we need to target the area being treated. When an area is targeted, only a percentage of hair follicles will be affected.Therefore, to effectively reduce your unwanted hair, multiple treatments are necessary.

While the risks of laser hair removal are minimal, there are some potential issues that individuals with darker skin should be aware of before starting treatment. The biggest risk is skin discoloration, including hyper and hypo pigmentation. At Le Parlour, the Elite+ laser allows us to adjust the wavelength to accommodate darker skinned individuals, minimizing these risks and making laser hair removal safe for all skin tones. 

·       Shave 12 hours beforehand – for maximum results, the hair’s root must be in the follicle without any hair sitting above the skin, so shaving beforehand will be beneficial.

·   Shower the morning of your appointment – this will give the technician a clean, smooth area to work with.

·   Avoid sun exposure and a fake tan

·   Wear comfortable clothes.

·   Don’t be afraid to ask questions – our goal is to make your experience as comfortable as possible so we want you to have all the information you need.·   Hair removal is a breeze at Le Parlour, so relax and enjoy as we provide a private, spa-like experience.

As with any hair removal process, dark skin laser hair removal included, harsh soaps, perfumes or deodorants should not be used after treatment. Some redness and bumps are perfectly normal, but they should go away within 1 or 2 days at the most.   

You can also take some simple steps to help your skin recover:

·       Cleanse the treated area gently the following day.

·       Avoid makeup and moisturizer/lotion/deodorant for the first 24 hours.

·       Avoid sun exposure

·       Do not pick/scratch/wax/thread or tweeze the treated area.

Dead hairs will begin to shed anywhere from 5-30 days after your treatment and you can exfoliate to speed up hair shedding. Hair growth varies depending on a number of factors including skin type and the specific area treated