The Best Laser Hair Removal for Dark Skin in 2024

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These expert-approved tools make it easy to keep body hair to a minimum

Choosing between hairless skin and full-on fuzz comes down to personal preference. But if you’re on the hairless side of the fence and also have an abundance of melanin, the best laser hair removal devices for dark skin are an efficient—and nearly permanent—option to stop unwanted growth.

Deeper skin tones can be a bit trickier to treat with at-home laser hair removal than lighter skin, as these tools may have trouble differentiating hair follicle pigmentation from the melanated skin that surrounds it. Though at-home lasers are similar to those found in offices (but typically with lower energy levels), it is always important to proceed with caution when operating such a beauty device.

Many of the most commonly used removal devices among beauty enthusiasts feature IPL technology. “These devices emit broad-spectrum light pulses to target the brown pigment of hair (melanin),” Teresa Song, board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical, tells Bazaar. “The heat energy damages the hair follicles and targets the cells in the hair bulb responsible for hair growth, thus inhibiting the growth cycle of the hair.”

There aren’t many expert-approved laser hair removal devices for deeper tones available for at-home use as select tools with specific wavelengths—diode and Nd:YAG—treat darker skin most safely. After consulting with skin experts and sifting through hundreds of customer reviews, we’ve rounded up a short list of the best laser hair removal devices for dark skin that are ideal for touch-ups in between appointments. Plus, read on for more professional tips on prepping for treatment and what to look for in an effective device.

CurrentBody is known for crafting some of Bazaar’s favorite skincare devices, and the brand’s laser hair removal tool is one of the newest in their arsenal. The device uses a single-wavelength diode laser to directly target melanin found in the hair follicles, and covers a large treatment surface area for fast removal. It also nicely uses cooling technology to keep the skin’s surface from overheating during treatment, so there’s less sting with each click.

One satisfied reviewer writes: “I’ve been using the CurrentBody Skin Laser Hair Removal Device on my upper lip, armpits, bikini line, lower legs, and even my toes. After just three weeks, the hair in all those areas has reduced and I can’t wait to see what results I get in the next few weeks. It’s so exciting!” —Rachel

DermRays’ diode hair removal laser includes six adjustable energy levels that let you tailor your treatment based on your skin’s sensitivity. Plus, since the tool has a wide surface area and continuous flash feature, you can reduce hair on your entire body in up to 15 minutes. And while some devices require users to wear goggles during treatment, you won’t need a pair to use this popular tool.

One satisfied reviewer writes: “I’ve always been cautious with hair removal since my dark skin tone, and the V6S has been the first product I found on the market that is perfect for me. No irritation, and my hair growth has slowed down significantly. I’ve even recommended it to my friends. It’s been a fantastic addition to my beauty routine.” —Tasha R.

One of the main differences between this device and the others on our list is that it is powered by a combination of radio frequency and intense pulsed light (or IPL) technology to minimize hair growth. While its IPL wavelengths stop at the skin’s surface, its radio frequency energy gives the device an extra hair-reduction boost. It has three intensity levels that can be used up to once per week to reduce unwanted face and body hair.

One satisfied reviewer writes: “I got this during the anniversary sale which was already an amazing deal. I am an Indian with African roots and I have thick coarse black hair with a lot of growth. I can say I am a beast and I’ve used it only twice but I have seen my growth decrease already. I can go longer without shaving and is so easy to use!” —ksha97

Laser hair removal is considered safe for darker skin tones when the right type of laser is used during treatment. When you’re choosing an at-home device, experts advise looking for tools containing diode lasers, which are generally deemed the safest for melanated skin as they have targeted wavelengths with lower intensities than professional versions. Nd:YAG lasers are also among the best for skin of color, though they are often exclusive to professional treatments. “Generally, an Nd:YAG wavelength is recommended for darker skin tones and can only be found at a professional laser hair removal institution,” says Christian Karavolas, laser hair removal expert and founder of Romeo & Juliette Laser Hair Removal in New York City.

Experts recommend keeping an eye out for FDA-cleared or approved devices, as these tools have been formally evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for safety and efficacy. Additionally, many devices feature adjustable energy level settings to accommodate a range of skin tones and hair colors, as well as smart sensors to detect potential hair removal issues.

Before doing at-home laser hair removal, experts advise not only minimizing sun exposure, but also avoiding shaving, exfoliating, and even self-tanning lotion, which can impact the effectiveness of your laser.

Reading the instructions for your device as thoroughly as possible is key, since each device is different and treatment times and uses can vary greatly. You should also always test a small area of skin with your preferred laser hair removal device to see how it reacts before treating a larger area. Lastly, ensure your skin is clean and dry, then begin treating the area on its lowest setting until you feel comfortable enough to increase the intensity. Skin is highly sensitive after laser procedures, and diligent sun care should be practiced, along with frequent SPF reapplication, and UV protective clothing and gear, if possible.

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women of every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, hair care, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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