If you have a deeper skin tone, you may have been told that laser hair removal isn't an option for you, or you may have had a poor experience with the wrong device. The truth is that the technology matters more than anything else. At Canadian Beauty Boutique in Brooklin, Whitby, we treat all skin types, Fitzpatrick I to VI, on our Cutera xeo.
Why skin tone matters with laser
Laser hair removal works because the laser's energy is absorbed by the pigment in each hair. That energy travels down to the follicle, where the heat slows its ability to grow new hair.
Skin has pigment too. Some devices can't easily tell the pigment in your hair from the pigment in your skin, which is why darker skin needs the right kind of laser and an experienced provider.
How the Nd:YAG laser is different
Our Cutera xeo uses a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser. Its longer wavelength reaches the hair follicle while being gentler on the surrounding skin. That is why it can be used on all skin types, including darker skin.
We also have ProWave LX, Cutera's intense pulsed light handpiece made for hair removal. It works best on lighter skin with darker hair. At your consultation, we choose the right option for your skin and hair, or a combination of both.
Who is a good candidate?
Darker, coarser hair responds best to laser. Very light, grey or white hair doesn't respond well, whatever your skin tone.
A recent tan also matters. We ask you to avoid tanning, tanning beds and self tanner on the area for at least two weeks before treatment.
What treatment feels like and how many sessions you need
The area is shaved and cleaned, and you wear protective eyewear. The laser is pulsed over the skin with built in cooling, and most people feel a warm snap. Redness and small bumps around the follicles are normal and usually settle within a few hours to a day.
Treated hairs shed over one to three weeks. Because hair grows in cycles, most people need four to eight treatments, spaced four to eight weeks apart depending on the area, then occasional maintenance.
How to prepare
Shave the area the day before your treatment.
Don't wax, pluck, thread or use hair removal creams for four weeks before. Shaving is fine.
Avoid tanning and self tanner on the area for at least two weeks before.
Come with clean skin, with no lotion, deodorant or makeup on the area.
Tell us about medications that make your skin sensitive to the sun, and if you're pregnant.
What laser hair removal costs in Whitby
Prices are per area, per treatment, and start at $75. A few examples:
Upper lip or chin: $75
Underarms: $100
Brazilian: $200
Lower legs: $200
Full body: $1,000
You save 10% with a package of 3 treatments, or 20% with a package of 6. Prices are in Canadian dollars, before HST. See the full list on our Treatment Pricing page.
Who does your treatment
Your consultation and your treatment are both done by Melissa Gagnon, RPN, founder of Canadian Beauty Boutique, who has more than 15 years of experience in medical aesthetics. Laser treatments are offered at our Brooklin clinic, serving Whitby, Oshawa, Ajax, Port Perry and all of Durham Region.
Common questions
Is laser hair removal safe for dark skin? With the right laser, yes. Our Nd:YAG laser can be used on all skin types, Fitzpatrick I to VI. We review your skin, health history and recent sun exposure at your consultation before any treatment.
Does it hurt? Most people describe a warm snap. The laser has built in cooling to keep you comfortable.
Is it permanent? Laser gives long lasting hair reduction. Regrowth becomes slower, finer and patchier with each treatment, and some people come in for occasional maintenance.
Book a free consultation
We'll look at your skin and hair, tell you how many treatments to expect and confirm your price. Book online through Jane, call 647 874 8261 or text 289 278 0101. You can also read more on our Laser Hair Removal page or learn about free consultations.