Is laser hair removal still an option for dark skin after having gotten burnt during patch test? Will burns scar? (Photo)

There are few lasers that are safe on all skin types. this is an extensive patch test and the area treated was no required. You will need more treatments than most to get hair reduction. Please look for experienced laser therapists, there are few dermatologists in the UK that perform laser hair removal themselves. The laser should also not be extremely painful on ethnic skin as this indicates increased risk for burns. You will heal but please seek advice from an experienced clinic.

I am sorry to hear about your experience. You definitely got burned with the laser. It is likely that the wrong device was used to treat your skin. I recommend the Nd:Yag (1064nm) laser for hair removal on darker skin. Before you have another treatment performed, make sure that you consult with a dermatologist that has experience treating skin of color. Darker skin must be treated delicately with specific lasers to prevent burns, scarring, and dyspigmentation. For now, I recommend you keep the area moist with Vaseline Petroleum Jelly so that it can heal well, and to minimize scarring. I recommend you wait at least 6 weeks before considering treatment with another laser device. Good luck!

It appears that you were burned from the laser.  It is likely that the wrong device was used.  The safest laser for darker skin is 1064 nm YAG laser.  I would recommend that you see a dermatologist or other wound care specialist for detailed instructions on wound care.  General instructions for wound care are to keep wounds moist with an ointment such as Aquaphor Healing Ointment or petrolatum.  It is very important to protect these areas from the sun and wear sunscreen after they heal.  You may experience hyperpigmentation or darkening of the skin in these areas which can be treated with topical bleaching creams if needed.  I wish you a speedy recovery.  Regards,Dr. Ort

Thanks for your question and posting pictures.  You were badly burned.  We test spot darker skin type patients with 1-2 pulses someplace that won't show.  After you are healed, you need to find a differently place!For anyone, if LHR hurts that badly, you are in the wrong place.  You should probably seek out a laser vs. IPL to help avoid complications.  Almost all newer lasers are safe for all skin types and have features built in (such as sapphire cooling tips) to make them more comfortable.  Some of the newer technology is also more efficient, allowing for lower energy settings to be used with better results and less discomfort.  With modern equipment, your treatment should only be mildly uncomfortable, but not painful.  We never use numbing cream for LHR.  We want our patients to be able to tell us if they feel pain or an unusual level of discomfort.We recommend finding an experienced and reputable provider in your area with updated equipment.  A consistent overlapping technique is the key to avoiding patchiness in LHR.   Calibration and power of the laser is important for a safe, comfortable and effective treatment.  Find out what laser they will use and if it is under a maintenance contract.  If their laser isn’t calibrated on a regular basis or is underpowered, your treatment may be painful or inefficient. After a series of 6-8 initial treatments, you may need a touch up every 3-5 years.

Hello, thank you for your question and for including photos.  It appears that an IPL (intense pulsed light) device has been used on your skin, not a laser.  These are definitely burns, and you should not do any more of this process.  The hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation may take months to resolve.  There are many lasers with YAG 1064nm wavelength that can be used to safely treat darker skin types. Please be sure to find a board certified dermatologist with the proper equipment to treat your skin type.Good Luck!

Thank you for sending your pictures.  I have done laser hair removal on many people with darker pigmentation without difficulty.  It is still an option for you.  Make sure you see an experienced physician who will pick the correct settings and wavelength for your coloration.  I use a YAG for darker skin without any problems.  Good Luck!  Dr. D.