Laser hair removal is a method of hair removal that uses laser energy to damage the follicle of the hair. As pulses of light permeate the skin, the energy is absorbed by the melanin in the follicle--the compound responsible for hair pigmentation. This increases the core temperature and eventually damages its structure, causing the follicle to go into a dormant phase where hair no longer grows for an extended period of time. With African Americans, the increased amount of melanin in the skin can pose a problem for this type of medical procedure, often leading to undesirable side effects.
Blistering
One of the potential side effects of laser hair removal for African Americans is blistering. This is largely because the intense beams of light used to remove the hair are absorbed by the melanin found in a follicle. With darker skin tones, the melanin in the skin absorbs just as much laser energy as the follicle. This not only damages the follicle, but it also raises the temperature of the skin and causes a blister to form. Blisters are only a temporary side effect of laser hair removal.
Scabbing
Another temporary side effect of laser hair removal for African Americans is scabbing. A scab may form on the surface of the skin soon after the treatment or as a result of blistering. However, this side effect isn't necessarily exclusive to darker skin tones. Almost anyone who goes through laser hair removal may suffer from minor scabbing.
Discoloration
According to the Mayo Clinic, another potential side effect of laser hair removal for African Americans is skin discoloration. In this situation, the areas of skin treated with a laser may actually experience a decrease in the production of melanin. This causes the area to lose pigmentation, resulting in hypopigmentation, or lighter patches of skin. Loss of pigmentation may be temporary or permanent.
Scarring
It's also possible to suffer from scarring due to laser hair removal. Much like in the side effect of blistering, the skin absorbs so much laser energy that it undergoes an elevation in temperature. As temperatures rise, your skin may begin to burn, sometimes to the point of scarring. This side effect isn't as common as blistering, but still a potential risk with darker skin tones. When a scar forms, it is often permanent.
Regrowth
African Americans may notice some regrowth of hair after the procedure. This particular side effect is an indication that the follicle wasn't heated to the extent needed to cause dormancy. Further sessions are necessary for proper hair removal.
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