Historically, laser hair removal worked best on light skin and dark hair. Early lasers couldn't distinguish between the melanin in the hair and the melanin in dark skin, leading to burns or pigmentation issues. This made LHR risky for many South Asian skin types.
Modern Nd:YAG and Diode Technology
Today, advanced lasers are incredibly safe for darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV-VI). At Ixora, we use wavelengths like the Nd:YAG (1064nm) or specialised Diode lasers. These wavelengths bypass the epidermis (top layer of the skin) and target the deeper hair follicle directly.
Safety Protocols
While the technology is safe, the operator's expertise is vital. To prevent complications like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH):
- We use aggressive epidermal cooling during the treatment.
- Settings are carefully calibrated based on your specific skin tone and hair thickness.
- Strict sun avoidance is mandated before and after sessions.
If you have darker skin, you are an excellent candidate for LHR, provided it is performed with the right technology by trained professionals.