Can anyone have Laser Hair Removal?

Unwanted body hair is a common problem and there are a number of products available which promise to deliver smooth, hair less skin quickly and conveniently, including laser treatment.

Each skin type reacts differently to laser hair removal. This is because the lasers used are designed to target melanin in the hair follicle (the substance in the body which gives skin and hair its natural colour) and destroy it. The problem for people with light hair is that the level of melanin in the follicle is lower, meaning that that laser hair removal may not be effective. For those with darker complexions, the concern is an increased chance of skin blistering as the level of melanin in the skin is higher and therefore more likely to soak up the light which is supposed to be absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicle.

This does not mean that these patients cannot user laser hair removal at all. While those with dark skin and light hair are still considered the best candidates for this treatment, the types of lasers available have increased and advanced so much that many clinics now offer the procedure to people of all skin and hair types. Caution must be taken however, particularly for people at risk of burning. It is vital to ensure that the right laser is chosen for the skin and hair type, and the best way to achieve this is to go with a reputable and experienced practitioner.

Finally, it must also be stressed that occasionally a patient simply may not respond to laser hair removal, even after multiple treatments. This is primarily limited to those with light hair but is worth considering before going through with laser hair removal treatment.

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