Use of cosmetic lasers has steadily increased over the past five years, and treatment with these devices has become more effective and safer for all skin types.
In fact, patients with darker skin now have a variety of options to target aesthetic concerns with little risk of burning, scarring, or hyperpigmentation.
Here are the best laser treatments for dark skin tones.
For Redness
When used at lower speeds and temperatures, the Vbeam laser is an excellent option to treat redness in patients with dark skin tones.
This pulsed-dye laser focuses energy on hemoglobin to eliminate broken blood vessels, spider veins, and rosacea.
When in doubt about a patient’s candidacy for treatment, providers can conduct a test spot. Meaning they select and treat a small area of skin that’s not very visible, such as under the jawline.
If this portion of skin does not experience any adverse events, the full treatment can safely be performed.
For Sun Spots, Scars, and Birthmarks
Patients with dark skin tones and sun spots, scars, and birthmarks respond well to pico lasers.
These devices deliver faster pulses that produce less heat, thereby limiting the chances of scarring or hyperpigmentation.
Additionally, treatment with PicoWay, PicoSure, and Pico Genesis can provide more even, smoother, brighter, and tighter skin without any downtime.
For Stretch Marks
The Palomar 1540 nanometer fractional laser creates a wound healing effect that stimulates collagen and elastin. As a result, it is able to remodel difficult-to-treat stretch marks.
When providers take a slow and steady approach with this laser, it can safely and effectively treat stretch marks on darker skin.
More specifically, aesthetic experts advise a series of five-to-eight sessions for these patients compared to the usual three-to-five treatments in order to avoid any pigmentary damage.
For Hair Removal
1064 nanometer Nd: Yag lasers, like Cutera Excel HR, are able to focus light-based energy precisely on hair follicles without harming the skin above.
Moreover, this hair removal laser is recommended for all skin types and even tanned skin.
For Smoother, Firmer Skin
Aesthetic experts suggest PicoSure Focus or Fraxel Restore to improve skin tone, texture, and tightness in patients with dark skin tones.
For added precaution, many providers advise application of four percent hydroquinone to the face for one week before and after treatment.
This prescription strength product relaxes pigment-making cells and helps reduce the chances of hyperpigmentation or scarring after a laser procedure.