How is laser hair removal different in skin of colour?

The treatment targets pigment in the hair follicle. In deeper skin tones, nearby skin also contains more pigment that can absorb energy. If the device or settings are poorly matched, this may cause burns, blisters, temporary lightening, or darkening after treatment. Hair colour, thickness, body area, recent tanning, and active skin irritation all affect planning. A patch test and a review of how your skin healed after previous treatments can help guide the approach.

Choose a qualified practitioner who regularly treats your skin tone and can explain the device being used. Avoid tanning and tell them about recent sun exposure, pigment changes, medicines, and products that irritate your skin. Follow their instructions about shaving and stopping hair removal methods that pull hair from the root. Do not apply products that make the area sensitive unless the practitioner has approved them. After treatment, use gentle skin care and protect the area from sun as advised.

Contact the treatment provider if pain worsens, swelling persists, or blisters, crusting, marked colour change, or oozing develops. Seek urgent care for extensive blistering, severe pain, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty. Mild warmth or redness can occur soon after treatment, but symptoms that spread or intensify need review.

Ask which laser wavelength suits your skin tone and hair, whether a patch test is planned, how recent tanning changes the schedule, what aftercare reduces pigment changes, and what symptoms should trigger a review.