Dark Skin
I have been told that I am not a candidate for laser hair removal. What now?
Individuals of Middle Eastern, Hispanic, Indian, African American, and Mediterranean descent generally have darker hair and skin tones, which do not work well with lasers. Contrast is needed for laser to target a hair. Thankfully, electrolysis works on all hair colors and skin types.
I tried laser hair removal and ended up with way more hair than I started with!
Paradoxical Hypertrichosis is a potential side effect of laser hair removal where dormant hair follicles are actually triggered to produce hair. It happens most often with the ethnic groups mentioned above, as well as those with hormone-induced hair growth such as PCOS. It occurs mainly on the face and neck and it is treatable with electrolysis.
I have experienced Paradoxical Hypertrichosis and I am devastated!
You are not alone. The massive, sudden onset of hair growth is so disheartening. Sadly, many others experience this as well. Rest assured that electrolysis can actually take care of the unwanted hair you're dealing with.
I just have lots of hair in general due to my ethnic background. Will it come back?
The hair that you have, when treated properly with electrolysis, will not return even if it was genetic by origin.
I am concerned about hypopigmentation (loss of pigment).
A good electrologist will take the time to properly assess your skin and get your settings just right, using the minimal amount of current necessary to properly treat the hair without damaging the skin.
I have lots of dark spots (hyperpigmentation).
Because dark skin is more prone to ingrown hairs, it is also more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. It can take months or years for some spots to lighten. Electrolysis, along with a good skincare routine, will go a long way in preventing and clearing up hyperpigmentation. See Curly, Coarse, and Wavy Hair for more on ingrown hair.