"Laser isn’t for my skin tone”… Or is that what you were told?

Laser for all skin tone

For years, patients with darker skin tones have heard the same message — directly or indirectly:

“Laser isn’t safe for you.”“Your skin tone is too risky.”“Better not try.”

And honestly? That belief didn’t come out of nowhere.

When laser treatments are done without the right technology, preparation, or expertise, the risks are real — burns, hyperpigmentation, long-term skin damage.

So the fear makes sense. But here’s the truth most people never hear:

Laser isn’t unsafe for dark skin. Poorly planned laser is.

Can Someone With Dark Skin Do Laser?

The short answer is: No… and also yes.

No — you can’t treat darker skin with just any laser or aggressive settings. That’s how complications happen.

But yes — with proper skin conditioning, device selection, and expert adjustment, laser treatments can be done safely and beautifully on darker skin tones.

The difference is not luck. It’s science, preparation, and experience.

Why Darker Skin Requires a Smarter Approach

Darker skin contains more melanin — and melanin absorbs energy.

If a provider doesn’t understand this, laser energy can target pigment instead of the treatment goal, leading to:

• Burns

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

• Uneven tone

• Long-lasting discoloration

That’s why one-size-fits-all laser treatments simply do not work for all skin tones.

The Role of Skin Conditioning (This Is Where Most Places Cut Corners)

One of the biggest mistakes is skipping pre-treatment skin preparation.

Before laser treatments on darker skin, the skin must be:

• Barrier-strengthened

• Calmed and balanced

• Free from active inflammation

This may include targeted skincare, pigment-safe products, and timing treatments correctly.

Healthy skin responds better.Compromised skin reacts.

Why MOXI and Carefully Adjusted BBL Can Be Safe Options

When performed correctly, MOXI and BBL with customized settings can be used on darker skin tones — but only with proper assessment and expertise.

These treatments allow for:

• Controlled energy delivery

• Custom settings based on Fitzpatrick type

• Skin rejuvenation without aggressive trauma

• Gradual improvement with safety as the priority

The key is precision, not intensity.

Aftercare Is Not Optional — It’s Critical

For darker skin tones, aftercare is just as important as the treatment itself.

Proper post-treatment care includes:

• Deep hydration to support the skin barrier

• Avoiding heat and friction

• Strict sun protection

• Pigment-safe topical products

• Close guidance from experienced providers

Skipping aftercare is one of the fastest ways to undo good treatment — or create complications.

When Laser Is Done Right, the Results Are Real

Patients who undergo properly planned laser treatments often experience:

• Brighter, more even skin tone

• Improved texture

• Reduced discoloration

• A healthy, natural glow — without damage

The glow is real.The results are real.And most importantly — the safety is real.

A Thoughtful, Skin-Tone-Specific Approach at West Coast Plastic Surgery Center

At West Coast Plastic Surgery Center, laser treatments are never “standard.”

We evaluate:

• Your skin tone and Fitzpatrick type

• Your skin barrier health

• Your pigment history

• Your long-term skin goals

Every setting, every step, and every product is chosen with intention — because darker skin deserves expertise, not fear-based avoidance.

Stop Asking If Laser Is “Allowed” for Your Skin

The better question is:“Is this being done the right way?”

If you’ve been told laser isn’t for you — or you’ve been afraid to try — it may be time to get a second opinion from a team that understands skin at every level.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you achieve your best health.📞 (805) 983-1999

And if you know someone who’s been told laser isn’t an option for them — send this their way.The right information can change everything.