Laser Hair Removal is a widely recognised treatment to remove unwanted hair. It is fast becoming the most popular non-cosmetic treatment in America and the UK. Despite this, there are still some myths surrounding Laser Hair Removal Treatment:
Myth 1: Laser treatment can cause more hair growth
Truth: This is absolutely not the case. The treatment works by emitting pulses of light to the surface of the skin which destroys or shrinks the hair follicles. The laser cannot produce new hair follicles to form.
Myth 2: Only one session of laser hair removal is needed to remove the hair
Truth: If only this was true! Hair grows in cycles and an individual hair may be in a different stage of the cycle to another hair. This means, whilst some hairs are targeted during a single session, additional sessions are required to target other hairs.
Myth 3: Laser Hair Removal is painful
Truth: Most clients find laser treatment to be virtually pain-free with a slight tingling or stinging sensation. It has also been described as a snap of a rubber band hitting the skin. In fact, removing the hair through waxing, tweezing or electrolysis are somewhat more uncomfortable.
Myth 4: Laser Hair Removal is expensive and not permanent
Truth: Now a widely carried out treatment, laser hair removal is much more affordable than it once was. With treatments such as the upper lip costing a mere £149 for a course of 6 sessions and this price comes with permanent removal unlike other forms of removal (waxing, shaving and tweezing) which require life-long maintenance and frequent upkeep.
Although the initial cost might be a little more expensive than other methods, in the long run, Laser Hair Removal works out much less pricey.
Myth 5: Laser Hair Removal can cause scarring
Truth: Laser Hair Removal can only cause scarring if the procedure is carried out by an untrained person who does not have an understanding of the requirements for laser hair removal or the circumstances in which the laser cannot be used.
Myth 6: Laser Hair Removal is not suitable for sensitive areas of the face or body
Truth: Laser Hair Removal can be used on all face and body areas, even those very sensitive parts such as the underarms, upper lip and bikini areas. If there is slight redness on the area following treatment, this usually subsides within the next few hours.
Myth 7: Lasers penetrate through the skin layers to affect the internal organs, causing hormonal imbalance or fertility problems
Truth: Lasers only penetrate the skin superficially. The laser emits light energy for only a fraction of a second to a single spot, which is quickly absorbed by the pigment/melanin in the hair follicle. There is no energy left to travel to any of the internal parts of the body which may disrupt the hormone balance or cause fertility problems.
Myth 8: Laser can treat all hair colours
Truth: If only this was true. Lasers are most attracted to darker hairs as they carry more pigment. Blonde hairs carry little to no pigment which means the lasers cannot differentiate between the skin colour and the hair. Thus, it is difficult to identify the hair and destroy it.
It is advisable to book a free consultation prior to treatment to meet with a Laser Skin Specialist who will be able to inform you on suitability to treatment and further information.
Written by: Sophie Hafez
