Laser Hair Removal for Asian and Olive Skin

When it comes to laser hair removal and skin color, not all lasers are created equally. Someone with white or Caucasian skin has much less to worry about when it comes to getting a burn from the treatments.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

The lasers work for hair removal because the laser light gets selectively absorbed by the hair, compared to the surrounding skin. This is why these removal systems do not work on white or grey hair. This lighter colored hair cannot absorb the laser energy.

With skin that is darker, including olive skin or that of those of Asian descent, it can absorb too much of the laser energy and thus sustain a burn. The YAG laser is much safer for those with non-white skin. This is a 1064 wavelength laser, in contrast to the Alexandrite laser, which is a 755 wavelength. The YAG laser has a different absorption frequency, providing a safer laser experience (though the skin should still not be tanned when getting a treatment). For those with light olive skin, the Alexandrite laser can likely still be used. But again, the skin should be very light in color.

We can increase the energy setting with the YAG laser and still get effective permanent hair removal. However, it may require a few more treatments than with the Alexandrite laser. It is also less uncomfortable for most people because the skin absorbs less of the energy. I still recommend that you apply the numbing cream 45-60 minutes before and cover with Saran wrap. We always use the cooler during the treatment, which helps to make it more comfortable.

The advantage of our Cynosure Elite Laser is that it is actually an Alexandrite and also a Yag laser, housed in the same unit. With the push of, we can switch from YAG to Alexandrite.

Check out our complete guide to laser hair removal entitled What is Laser Hair Removal?