Does Laser Hair Removal Help With Hyperpigmentation?
Dark spots and uneven skin tone can have numerous causes. In some cases, hyperpigmentation can even appear after laser hair removal with devices that aren’t compatible with a client’s skin type. However, the right laser hair removal can actually help with hyperpigmentation and age spots when used correctly.
If you’re ready to learn how laser hair removal can even out your skin tone and remove more than just unwanted hair, you’re in the right place! Today, we’ll answer all your questions about this hot topic.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
There are many reasons you might notice discoloration on your skin. Here are a few major offenders:
Hormonal changes
As we age, hormonal changes can impact our skin’s pigment. Pregnancy, birth control, and menopause may all leave their marks in the form of dark spots, especially on the face. Your dermatologist can help you determine if your hyperpigmentation is caused by hormonal fluctuations or another culprit.
Sun exposure
Many of us seek out the sun to improve our skin tones and add a little color to our complexions, but this practice can have a range of adverse side effects, including dark patches. Since the sun stimulates melanin production, UV exposure tends to kickstart hyperpigmentation.
Medications
Certain medications like birth control, chemotherapy drugs, and antibacterial medicines can cause chemical changes in our bodies that manifest in skin discoloration.
Medical conditions
Inflammatory diseases, adrenal dysfunction, diabetes, and thyroid imbalances can all contribute to excess melanin production. Additionally, topical conditions like acne and ingrown hairs may leave dark spots long after breakouts clear up.
How does laser hair removal treat hyperpigmentation?
How can a treatment system with the potential to cause hyperpigmentation counteract the condition? It seems complicated, but here’s how this plays out:
Targets hair follicles
Chronic shaving and waxing will ultimately result in an injury or two. Razor burns, bumps, ingrown hairs, and damaged follicles can all leave dark spots after they heal. After a lifetime, these micro-injuries can take a toll on your skin.
On the other hand, laser hair removal targets hair follicles to lighten existing hyperpigmentation. It also destroys these follicles and eliminates the need for alternative hair removal methods. In turn, the treatment mitigates the risk of future discoloration.
Destroys hair growth cells
Ideally, this targeted approach that zeroes in on hair follicles should leave the rest of your skin untouched. Since lasers seek out melanin, they identify and destroy dark hair roots while bypassing surrounding skin. This is one reason why choosing the right laser device is so important.
Clients with darker skin tones or lighter hair colors can suffer from burns and skin damage if the laser isn’t compatible with their needs. In these cases, the risk of laser-induced hyperpigmentation is much more likely.
However, when properly calibrated and used correctly, laser treatment can have the opposite effect, diminishing discoloration to leave your skin glistening.
Breaks down melanin
Laser hair removal doesn’t just seek out melanin, it also destroys it. This is because the treatment can effectively minimize hyperpigmentation and lighten pesky dark spots.
Where methods like chemical peels take a blind approach to skin rejuvenation, laser hair removal can work where you need it and leave the rest of your skin untouched.
Types of laser hair removal to help hyperpigmentation
Different types of lasers are better suited for different skin types and conditions. Here are a few of the most common options::
Alexandrite laser
Alexandrite lasers emit micro-bursts of infrared light energy at 755 nm wavelengths to destroy damaged tissue. While these devices can be incredibly effective, they’re not great for people with darker skin tones.
Nd: YAG Laser
Nd: YAG lasers are often considered safe for a wider range of skin tones. Clients with darker complexions may benefit from these laser hair removal devices as they’re less likely to cause hyperpigmentation than other light-based alternatives.
Diode laser
In general, diode lasers are highly beneficial for both hair removal and improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation. They’re highly efficient and typically require fewer treatments to see results.
The Cervello multi-wavelength diode laser that we use at The Wax Room features customizable treatment settings to cater to every skin type, while the advanced cooling system ensures comfort and safety. Plus, your hair removal expert can fine-tune the treatment experience to meet your precise needs.
Explore semi-permanent hair removal at The Wax Room!
At The Wax Room, we’re on a mission to empower our clients through world-class hair removal services! Whether you want to create a routine waxing regimen or eliminate hyperpigmentation with laser hair removal, we’re here to help. Both services offer a wide range of advantages and disadvantages, and we’re happy to help you find the perfect solution to meet your needs.
Ready to reclaim your skin and ditch the razor? Contact us today or book an appointment online. We can’t wait to help you achieve your goals!