Ive got very fair, Scandinavian skin.

Question:
Ive got very fair, Scandinavian skin. Id like to not have to shave as often so Ive been thinking about different hair removal options. I have a major concern with the laser. Is it possible for a hair removal laser to discolor light skin?

Answer:
Having very light Scandinavian skin actually poses two potential issues with regards to laser hair removal. The first is whether your hair follicles are too light for any laser to work appropriately in removing the hair. Laser hair removal depends on the laser energy recognizing the hair follicle. Very light hair follicles are not recognized very well by the laser energy and therefore are not destroyed appropriately. In terms of your light skin, the Soprano laser we use for hair removal is extremely safe. Pigmentation issues can occur if a burn occurs during your treatment but, this is rare especially in light skin. Darker skin is at much higher risk for hyperpigmentation during laser hair removal as burns can occur more frequently. I would always seek out an experienced professional prior to undertaking any laser or cosmetic procedure.

Posted by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld