What Makes a Good Laser Hair Removal Candidate?

Posted Sep 10, 2008

While laser hair removal will work with any skin type and any hair color, there are some who make better laser hair removal candidates than others. Understanding what makes you a good laser hair candidate is useful information. It will help you understand how to select the best laser hair removal treatment for you.

People with black, brown and white skin that frequently tans are those that will need to double check that laser removal technician has a laser that will work with their skin tone. People with lighter skin tone are considered better candidates. The “best” candidate is one who has light skin and dark hair, because the laser can “read” the dark hair off of the light skin. Candidates that will also need to check with the laser hair removal technician are also those with light colored hair (blonde, red, grey) and also those with white skin that enjoy tanning.

Many technicians or centers encourage clients not to tan while they are getting laser hair removal. This may help your laser hair removal to be successful. Pay attention to any directions or further information the center or technician gives you. They are giving you this information to encourage you to be a successful candidate.

If you are not considered the “best” candidate you may still see a result from laser hair removal, but you may not see a complete result. That is, you might see 50% less hair in the area. You might also need more sessions than other clients. Talk to the technician or center and be open to their advice. Confirm that they have experience working with clients with your skin tone and hair color to be sure you will be pleased with the results. Someone who is experienced with dealing with various skin tones and hair colors will understand that the client may need more sessions and it is important to be patient.

It may also be in your best interests to do some research to confirm that your technician or center has the latest equipment that can treat those with any skin type or hair color. Ask your laser hair removal technician or center what they are doing to stay up-to-date in the field. A skilled professional will be returning for more training and will be reading about current research in laser hair removal to learn more about the latest treatments available.

Laser hair removal has been successful for many people. In today’s day and age more and more candidates are being considered for laser hair removal that might otherwise not have been considered. The technology is improving and changing as we speak. If laser hair removal is not an option that can be considered for you, there are various at-home hair removal treatments that you can consider. Waxing, depilatories, shaving and plucking are all excellent ways to remove unwanted body and face hair. While they do not offer long-lasting or permanent results, they will remove the unsightly hair – and give you a solution to get rid of unwanted hair.