Are You a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a great option for many people looking to get rid of unwanted hair, but this treatment isn’t suitable for everyone. While you may have heard that the ideal candidate has darker-colored hair and lighter skin, those aren’t the only factors to consider, and technology has advanced since then!

Before scheduling an appointment, it’s important to determine whether or not you’re a good candidate. Join us as we explore the features that can make or break this popular procedure.

Factors that affect candidacy for laser hair removal

From your hair type to your skin tone, several factors can affect the way lasers respond to different people. Here’s a closer look at these features:

Skin tone

Laser technology typically works by targeting melanin in hair follicles. Beams of light seek out the darkest color in their sights and zap it to destroy the follicle itself. Typically, when lasers encounter darker skin tones, they can’t differentiate between hair and skin, making them less effective.

At The Naked Cupcake, our GentleLase machine caters to all skin types and tones for laser hair removal!

Hair color

Historically, your hair color affects how well laser hair removal works. Patients with blonde, white, or red hair may not see the benefits. Once again, the effectiveness of laser hair removal comes down to the contrast between hair and skin pigments.

Of course, those with bleached hair may still be good candidates for laser sessions, as lasers target the follicle and root. Those with dark natural hair can often achieve great results thanks to advancements in laser technology.

Skincare

Certain medications, such as Accutane and tetracycline, can make your skin much more sensitive to light rays. Most experts recommend waiting until you’ve been off of these meds for at least a year before undergoing laser hair removal.

Your expectations

Laser hair removal is touted as a permanent solution for unwanted body hair, but that’s not always the case. Medications, hormonal fluctuations, and other factors can cause changes in hair growth throughout your life, so don’t be surprised if you see new growth after a few years. In many cases, you can get touch-up treatments to keep new strands at bay.

Who should not be receiving laser hair removal?

Just because you have dark hair and light skin doesn’t necessarily mean laser hair removal is right for you. After all, the process can be a time and financial commitment, so you won’t want to waste precious resources on a treatment that won’t work. Here are some situations when you’ll need to find a different solution:

Anyone looking for treatment near the eyes

If you’re searching for the perfect solution for unruly eyebrows or excessive peach fuzz encroaching on your peepers, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Laser technology can damage your eyesight, especially without proper protection. For the safest treatment, opt for waxing vs laser, or brow tweezing instead.

Pregnant or nursing women

During pregnancy, hormonal shifts can cause the skin to be more sensitive than normal. In these cases, laser hair removal can result in abnormal pigmentation and increased pain and irritation of the treatment area. It’s important to note that there isn’t much research on the safety of these treatments on developing fetuses, so it’s best to hold off if you think you might be pregnant.

Those who have certain medical conditions

Anyone with a history of abnormal scarring, such as keloid scars, will need to opt for a different hair removal method. Additionally, people diagnosed with skin cancer in the past aren’t good candidates for laser hair removal. Finally, those prone to cold sores may want to consider this before any facial laser treatment, as laser treatments can cause an outbreak.

Tattooed areas should not receive laser hair removal

Laser hair removal devices utilize technology similar to that used for tattoo removal treatments. When you attempt laser hair reduction on a tattooed area, you can expect changes to your body art, including lightening, dulling, or a splotchy appearance.

Anyone who recently tanned

Many folks love the look of a good tan, but you’ll need to avoid the sun or the tanning salon for at least two weeks before your laser hair removal session. Sun exposure can create increased skin sensitivity, which can cause hyperpigmentation, burns, and scars during laser hair removal.

At The Naked Cupcake, our laser has a setting that allows tanned skin to receive treatments, but you’ll always get the absolute best results when you’re tan-free!

The Naked Cupcake provides safe laser hair removal in Tomball, Texas!

Hair trends may come and go, but safe and effective hair removal techniques never go out of style. At The Naked Cupcake, we’re committed to providing our clients with the most comfortable experience and the best results possible.

We understand that beauty treatments are about more than how you look — they’re also about feeling confident in your own skin. That’s why we cater each treatment session to the individual and avoid a one-size-fits-all approach in the treatment room.

Schedule an appointment or contact us today to learn more!