Laser or Electrolysis for Black Skin: Which One Do You Need?
Women with unwanted hair on dark or Black skin often ask which is better, laser or electrolysis. They do different jobs, and for many women the best plan uses both. Eva Taub has treated Black and dark skin for more than 40 years.
The one rule: laser sees color
Laser works by being attracted to the color in the hair. The darker the hair, the better it works. White, gray, blonde and red hair do not hold enough color, so laser cannot treat them. White is not a color. This is why it matters to start laser while your hair is still dark. If you wait until it turns white, laser will not work.
Which laser for Black skin?
For Black and dark skin the laser matters a great deal. In Eva’s practice, the Nd:YAG 1064 laser is the one used on Black skin, and diode and alexandrite lasers are not used on Black skin. Many chain clinics advertise that they treat all skin tones, so ask exactly which laser they use on your skin and what their settings are.
Laser and electrolysis side by side
| Laser | Electrolysis | |
|---|---|---|
| Works on | Dark hair | Every hair color, including white and gray |
| Speed | Fast: minutes for a whole area | Slow: each hair is treated one at a time |
| Discomfort | Mild to moderate | More uncomfortable; numbing cream can help |
| Best used | First, while the hair is dark | Last, for white, gray and fine hairs |
| Visits | Several, over many months | Several, until each area is cleared |
What about hormonal hair?
If your hair comes from PCOS, perimenopause, menopause or another hormone problem, new hairs keep waking up. Neither laser nor electrolysis changes the hormones. Treatment plus a doctor who looks at the cause gives the best result, and Eva will tell you plainly when to see one.
A simple plan for many women
- Laser first, while the hair is dark.
- Electrolysis at the end, for the last fine hairs and for white or gray hair.
- No waxing, threading or plucking in between, because they can darken the skin and make the next treatment harder.
Read more: Electrolysis for Black skin in Newnan, GA and Black skin laser hair removal in Newnan.
Not sure which one you need? Ask Eva. It is free.
Or call or text Eva: 305-864-3333