Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: Why African Americans Should Consider Laser Hair Removal

It’s summertime, which is often the season where hair removal methods are brought to the attention of both men and women. Talking Pretty went in to Atlanta’s Women’s Institute for Health (WIFH) to see what all the fuss was about with using the technique of laser hair removal. Dr. Jay Kulkin of WIFH, “Georgia’s most trusted name in laser hair removal, aesthetics & smart lipo,” reassured me that I had nothing to worry about and that I was in good hands.

Previously, I was alarmed by rumors that African Americans would not benefit from laser hair removal because they would “burn” or suffer from darker pigmentation in their skin. Dr. Kulkin corrected me that this was once the case but that technology has advanced throughout the years to develop laser techniques and equipment that achieve great results, especially in darker skin tones. He and his staff at WIFH have performed more than 100,000 laser procedures, including 50,000 procedures on darker skin types. Not only does Dr. Kulkin treat patients, but he also trains doctors from around the world in his unique laser techniques.

WIFH Expectations

You may require touch-up sessions at the completion of your package. “It is our clinical staff’s experience that certain skin types, medical conditions, hormonal changes and ethnicity require ongoing touch-ups.”

My Experience

Shortly after my consultation with Dr. Kulkin, the physician’s assistant prepped me for my treatment. I got my bikini area done, and, prior to the session, they ask that you shave (not wax, pluck, tweeze or thread) the area that will be treated. The session only took about 15-20 minutes. The laser felt like little needles pricking my skin but as soon as the P.A. stopped the laser, the pain immediately went away. Friendly conversation and the cool-air remedy were great distractions from the minor pain.

Nonetheless, the session was quite a breeze and was over before I knew it. Other areas of the body, including arms and legs, can take up to two hours, and most areas involve eight sessions where you can see a 75 to 90 percent reduction in hair growth.  I should see results within two to three weeks from my first session and will be going back six weeks from now. I’m so glad I did my research and am now educated on this cosmetic procedure. Check out the video below for my interview with Dr. Kulkin and a peek into my laser hair removal session.  –mckenzie harris

WIFH’s Dr. Jay Kulkin discusses laser hair removal and why African Americans should consider it.
Part 2: WIFH’s Dr. Jay Kulkin discusses laser hair removal and why African Americans should consider it Talking pretty with McKenzie: WIFH bikini laser hair removal experience