Who may benefit? Laser can treat many body areas and may help people with unwanted hair, razor bumps or recurrent ingrown hairs. The best results usually occur with darker hair because very light, white or grey hair contains little target pigment.
Treatment planning Device choice and settings must consider skin tone, hair colour, treatment area, tanning and medical history. Experienced treatment is especially important for darker skin to reduce burns and pigment changes.
Before and after treatment Avoid tanning and follow instructions about shaving, waxing and medicines. Temporary redness and swelling around follicles are common. Use sunscreen and avoid heat or irritating products as advised.
Results and risks Hair becomes finer and less dense over a series of sessions. Maintenance may be needed, particularly in hormonally influenced facial hair. Risks include burns, blistering, scarring and lighter or darker pigmentation when treatment is unsuitable.
Tell the clinician about recent isotretinoin use, keloids, cold sores, pregnancy and all medicines before treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions are usually needed?
Several sessions are generally required, often six or more depending on the area.
Does laser work on white hair?
It is usually ineffective because white hair lacks target pigment.
Is it permanent?
It can produce long-term reduction, but maintenance may be needed.
Can darker skin be treated?
Yes, with suitable technology and an experienced practitioner.
This information is for education only and does not replace medical assessment or treatment by a qualified physician.