Myths about laser hair removal debunked
Myth 1: Laser hair removal is painful
If you’ve ever waxed or had threading, then laser hair removal will be a breeze!
The laser removes hair by a process called photothermolysis, which basically means using heat from light to remove the hair. This causes some warming sensation in the skin but our office used cooling equipment during the treatment such that it is alleviated. Also, some patients prefer to first having a special numbing cream applied in the office to help with discomfort in especially sensitive areas.
Myth 2: Laser hair removal doesn’t work on dark skin
It is true that lots of laser systems don’t work on darker skin, or aren’t safe for darker skin, however our laser works well on all skin types. Although laser hair removal works best on people with fair skin and darker hair, patients with darker complexions can still achieve great results, but they must be treated with special settings by someone trained in treating darker skin.
Myth 3: Takes years of treatments to work
As long as you’re using a powerful laser such as ours then you can see results after your first sessions.
For permanent hair reduction, it can typically be seen within 4-6 months. Hair grows in cycles and the laser can only target hair follicles that are currently in the growth phase. Laser hair removal treatments should be administered every few weeks to allow enough time for your hair to be in an active stage of growth.
Myth 4: Laser hair removal is expensive
Compared to a lifetime of shaving cream and razors, electric shavers and epilators, waxing and threading laser hair removal is actually very cost-effective.
Myth 5: Laser hair removal isn’t safe
With a team lead by dermatologists it is very rare for problems to occur. The treatment is appropriate for a range of healthy patients, and most people are eligible for laser hair removal. With that said, candidacy will always be evaluated by a reputable provider, and you should always look into the laser being used by your chosen provider. To be safe, laser hair removal should never be done in skin that has any little bit od sun tan.
Myth 6: Can’t be performed on face/sensitive areas
False! Some of the most popular treatments are laser treatment on the upper lip, underarms, and bikini area.
Myth 7: Laser hair removal doesn’t last
Patients can expect to see a reduction of up to 95% using certain medical lasers. For most people, the vast majority of treated hair does not return.
Myth 8: At-home treatments give the same results as in-office ones
This is a tricky one. While at home devices are not nearly as effective as ones at your dermatologist’s office, you may be able to extend the effects of laser hair removal between treatments with an at-home laser device.
Myth 9: Can’t go out in public afterwards
Busted! There is no downtime needed after getting laser hair removal. The only thing to note is that you should generally avoid direct sunlight immediately after your laser treatment.
Myth 10: Laser hair removal causes ingrown hairs
On the contrary, laser hair removal is the recommended treatment for those who experience ingrown hairs and those who deal with folliculitis and razor bumps.