Safe Laser Hair Removal for All Skin Tones in Ann Arbor, MI
If you, like millions of others, desire an end to constant shaving routines or painful waxing appointments, you may have wondered if laser hair removal is safe for darker skin tones. While broadly safe, some lasers still pose a risk of hyperpigmentation when used to target dark hair on dark skin. Thankfully, newer laser tech has emerged to eliminate those risks entirely. At Ganger Dermatology in Ann Arbor, MI, we proudly offer YAG laser hair removal—a completely safe and effective method for all skin tones.
Removing the Risk from Laser Hair Removal
The Nd:YAG laser still works like traditional laser hair removal systems but with a key difference. Typically, a beam of powerful light targets the melanin in your hair while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed. Because your hair is darker than your skin (i.e. contains more melanin), the hair absorbs the light at a higher rate. This light transforms into heat which destroys the hair shaft and (in some cases) permanently destroys the hair bulb. But unfortunately, for many patients with darker hair and darker skin, traditional laser systems pose a slight risk.
In the past, traditional laser hair removal systems have sometimes resulted in hyperpigmentation. To remove this risk while remaining effective, the Nd:YAG laser uses light at longer wavelengths, meaning that the beam penetrates more deeply and avoids dangerous degrees of absorption in the skin. In other words, because the beam is long enough to pass through the skin, less heat energy is absorbed by it.
If you’ve put off laser hair removal in the past because of your skin tone, the YAG laser is definitely right for you! You can finally reduce the rate of growth and visual impact of unwanted hairs on your legs, arms, underarms, and bikini line without an increased risk.
Benefits of YAG Laser Hair Removal
YAG Laser Hair Removal FAQs
Yes, both traditional and YAG laser hair removal can create permanent results. In some cases, the laser may permanently destroy hair bulbs. However, it’s impossible to target and destroy all hair bulbs in a target area. Instead, laser hair removal can make a lasting difference in the rate of hair growth and in its visual impact. After a laser hair removal session, the hair that grows back is thinner, shorter, and brighter, making it harder to see.
To learn more about YAG laser hair removal for all skin tones, call Ganger Dermatology at (734) 344-4567 or find an office near you.
Yes, when compared to traditional lasers, YAG laser hair removal for all skin tones is safer. A longer wavelength of light has a lower frequency and a higher rate of penetration. This lower frequency beam is less energetic and, therefore, less risky to darker skin. Thanks to its higher penetration, it’s also more likely to pass harmlessly through the melanin in your skin without heating it to a risky degree. In essence, the slight difference between your darker hair and your dark skin is enough to make the YAG laser ideal for removing hair without harming surrounding tissue.
Most patients describe the laser hair removal treatment as comfortable. Quick flashes of laser energy result in a minor sensation of heat, but this can be prevented with topical cooling gels and built-in safety technology. When compared to a lifetime of alternative hair removal methods, laser hair removal is more comfortable by miles.
Ditch Unwanted Hair Despite Skin Tone at Ganger Derm!
Naturally, when lasers and cosmetic procedures are concerned, you want to be as safe as possible. Even a minor risk may be too much. At Ganger Dermatology, we share that safety-first mentality. That’s why we offer both traditional and YAG laser hair removal treatment options. If you’ve put off taking care of your unwanted hair for fear of potential side effects, worry no more! Now, you can get the attention you deserve regardless of your skin tone.
At our Ganger Dermatology offices in Ann Arbor, Wixom, and Plymouth, MI, we’ll speak to you about your desires and expectations. Afterwards, we’ll decide if the YAG laser hair removal method is safer and more suitable for you. Ditch the razor blades and daily toil by choosing YAG laser hair removal for all skin tones at Ganger Dermatology today!
