Am I a Candidate?

With the advent of new technology, those who were once considered poor candidates for laser hair removal (such as African American skin tones or darker skin, or people with blonde, red, or gray hair) can now receive advanced laser hair removal treatment and achieve outstanding results. In fact, the treatments have become so successful, we've had to update our candidacy chart to include virtually everyone. The results still work best for certain hair and skin types, but treatments are becoming more and more available to everyone.

This being said, if you've been considered a poor or "iffy" candidate for hair removal in the past, your success with treatments today depends on the laser hair removal technology utilized by your aesthetic professional. Services that combine radio frequency energy with traditional hair lasers have the best results for darker skin tones and lighter hair follicles. While we classify these special cases as "Neutral," you'll want to attend a consultation with 2-3 different providers to determine what laser system will give you the best possible results.

Laser Hair Removal Candidacy Table

If You are a Neutral Candidate

Remember, certain lasers have been developed to work with your skin and hair combination. However, some laser clinics do not employ this technology. Shop around until you find a clinic that works best for your unique needs. Once you find the right laser provider, your results will be determined by:

• Your unique characteristics (hair type and skin type)
• Your willingness to be accepting of a probable outcome (you may only achieve a 40% reduction in hair)
• Your willingness to work with a practice that prescribes a treatment plan that is designed with you in mind (common practice is 3-4 sessions, but you may need 5 or more with darker skin tones or light hair).
• The clinic or medical spa’s investments in technology and new lasers.
• The practice’s skill in working with new laser technology. An experienced laser technician can make a huge difference when dealing with more difficult skin tones.
• The practice’s investment in research and medical trials with dark skin tones and light hair.

In unique circumstances where hair removal is not recommended (normally due to certain medical conditions such as diabetes or lupus), understand that a referral to an electrolysis practice may be given, and there are plenty of effective (if not permanent) at-home hair removal treatments.

The chart above describes common thinking about candidates for laser hair removal. It is a guide to decision making, but shouldn't be the sole basis of any decision. It's a wonderful starting out point, but always get a second opinion at a free consultation with a certified specialist.

Find a laser hair removal specialist here >>

For more about hair growth cycle, read this information >>

Home for Laser Hair Removal Information (prices, stats, news, etc) >>

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