Medium & Dark Skin Tone
Specialists
Expert Laser Hair Removal for Every Shade of Beautiful
Got Melanin? We’ve Got Your Back
(and Your Legs, Arms, Face…)
The Gold Standard for Dark Skin Laser Hair Removal Starts with the ND:YAG
If you’ve ever felt unsure about laser hair removal because of your skin tone—welcome home. At Laser Affair, we specialize in laser hair removal for dark skin tones, and we’re proud to be one of the only places in Tampa with the gold standard: the Nd:YAG laser.
Our team knows how to safely and effectively treat all skin tones—with zero guesswork, no burns, and none of the hyperpigmentation drama. We understand that darker skin needs expert care, and that’s exactly what we provide.
You can breathe easy knowing we have the knowledge, the technicians, and the vibes to make your skin smooth and happy—with no unwanted side effects.
How the Nd:YAG Laser Works
Not all lasers are created equal, especially when it comes to treating darker skin tones. The Nd:YAG laser (short for neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet… but no need to remember that part) is specifically designed to safely target hair follicles without harming surrounding skin.
Unlike other lasers that can get confused by melanin in the skin and melanin in the hair, the Nd:YAG uses a longer wavelength (1064 nm) that penetrates deeper. This means it bypasses the melanin in the skin’s surface and goes straight to the root of the hair—destroying the follicle while leaving your skin untouched.
Bonus: It also has built-in cooling systems, so treatments are not only safer, but more comfortable, too.
In short? The Nd:YAG laser is the real MVP for melanin-rich skin. And, we’re one of the only providers in Tampa that offers it.
About the Alexandrite Laser
The Alexandrite laser (755nm) is a powerful, fast-acting laser commonly used for laser hair removal on lighter skin tones—typically Fitzpatrick skin types I to IV. It works by targeting melanin (pigment) in the hair shaft with a shorter wavelength that’s highly effective at destroying hair follicles.
Because this laser is so good at finding pigment, it’s best suited for lighter and medium skin tones where there’s a strong contrast between the hair and skin. On darker skin, it may increase the risk of side effects like burns or discoloration, which is why we only use it where it’s safe and appropriate.
When used on the right skin types, the Alexandrite laser delivers smooth, long-lasting results—fast.
Safe Practices for Tan and Brown Skin Tones
At Laser Affair, we know that great results start with great technique—especially when treating darker skin tones. Here’s how we make sure your experience is both safe and effective:
Custom Settings, Every Time – Each treatment is customized based on your skin tone, hair type, and sensitivity level.
Patch Testing – We always perform a patch test to ensure your skin reacts safely and comfortably to the treatment.
Trained Technicians Who Understand Melanin – Our team is fully trained in treating dark and tan skin tones. We know what works—and more importantly, what doesn’t.
Post-Treatment TLC – We’ll guide you on aftercare to help your skin stay calm, hydrated, and glowing after each session.
Whether you’re tan year-round or blessed with deep melanin-rich skin, we have the tools, training, and expertise to help you get smooth, bump-free skin.
Finding Your Fitzpatrick Skintype
The Fitzpatrick Scale—also known as the Fitzpatrick skin typing test or photo-typing scale—is a numerical system used to categorize skin color. It helps determine how different skin types respond to UV exposure. Today, it’s still widely used in dermatology to study skin tone and sensitivity. While sun exposure can deepen pigmentation (like a tan), your underlying skin type stays the same and is influenced by genetic background—not something that changes over time.
Your Fitzpatrick Skin Type plays a key role in choosing the safest and most effective laser for hair removal. Lasers target melanin (pigment) in the hair, but darker skin also contains more melanin in the skin itself, which can compete for the laser’s energy. This increases the risk of side effects like hyperpigmentation.
That’s why the right combination of laser wavelength, pulse duration, and cooling is essential to treat the hair follicle without harming the skin.
In general:
Skin types I–IV respond well to the Alexandrite 755nm laser
Skin types V–VI are best treated with the Nd:YAG 1064nm laser, which is safer for deeper skin tones
Only Trust Your Skin With the Best
Not all laser clinics are experienced in treating brown skin—and choosing someone unfamiliar with it can lead to less effective results or unwanted side effects.
- Ineffective Results – Cheap or outdated equipment may not properly target hair follicles.
- Laser Not Safe for Dark Skin – Some providers may use lasers not suitable for melanin-rich skin, increasing the risk of complications.
- Lack of Customization – One-size-fits-all settings can be dangerous for darker skin tones that require precise calibration.
CLIENT LOVE
FAQs
Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation is usually the result of using the wrong laser or settings. Our team is trained in treating melanin-rich skin safely, and our devices have built-in cooling to protect your skin tone and texture.
It’s best to avoid treating freshly tanned skin. If your skin is sun-exposed or tanned, we may recommend waiting a couple of weeks or choose to use the Nd:YAG for increased safety. Don’t worry—we’ll assess your skin and guide you on the right timing. If you know you have an appointment coming up, skip the sun for at least 2 weeks before and after.
Absolutely. In fact, coarse and dark hair responds very well to laser hair removal because it’s easier for the laser to “see.” Our laser technology is designed to effectively target the pigment-rich follicles in thick, curly hair, which are often common in darker skin types.
Most people start seeing noticeable results after 3-4 sessions, but a full treatment plan typically includes 6-8 sessions spaced several weeks apart. Your hair type, growth cycle, and skin tone all play a role, so we’ll create a personalized plan just for you.