Why skin tone matters
Laser targets pigment. Darker skin has more pigment of its own, so a laser tuned only for hair can heat the skin too. The answer is a wavelength that passes the skin and reaches the hair root, combined with careful settings and cooling.
Why Nd:YAG suits darker skin
The Nd:YAG wavelength (1064 nm) goes deeper and is absorbed less by the skin's surface pigment, which makes it the standard choice for brown and dark skin. The Deka Motus AY combines it with alexandrite, and its gliding Moveo mode builds heat gradually for extra comfort and safety.
Tanned skin
A recent tan raises surface pigment and the risk of irritation. Avoid tanning for 2 weeks before a session and protect treated areas with SPF afterwards. If you are tanned on the day, tell the team so the doctor can adjust or postpone.
Dark marks and ingrown hairs
Many people with darker skin get dark spots from ingrown hairs and shaving. Reducing the hair often makes these fade over time, since the cause is removed.
Fair hair on dark skin
Laser needs pigment in the hair. Very light, grey or red hair responds poorly on any skin tone, so the doctor will tell you honestly if laser is likely to work for you.
Written by the Jothen Clinics team. Updated 25 October 2026. This guide is general information. Your branch confirms what suits your skin and hair at your first visit.