The heavier the beard, the more likely you are to get scarred, so it's very important to choose an electrologist recommended by someone who had male facial hair removed and is done and happy. Some with light skin and dark hair have found laser useful, but there is limited data on how long it will last and how often treatment is successful. There are early indications that super-long pulse lasers might be an acceptable alternative to shaving for black males, but it's too soon to tell for sure. Laser can sometimes lighten the color of facial hair and reduce the amount of shadow, but some have reported patchy or grid-like regrowth that looked odd. If you seek complete and permanent beard removal, it's very important to do a lot of research and understand the difficulty of the undertaking.
Some women prefer to conceal fine dark hair by bleaching rather than removing it.
The prescription topical cream Vaniqa has been a great maintenance solution for about half the women who try it. If you want the hair gone for good, find an electrologist recommended by someone who is done and happy. Some women with light skin have found laser helpful for heavier amounts of dark hair, but there is limited data on long-term effectiveness or what percentage respond to treatment. Women with high levels of androgens should discuss the matter with their endocrinologist. Pregnant and nursing women often see increased amounts of hair.