Laser hair removal is a popular method of removing unwanted hair. Many people have taken the plunge, while others are still hesitant. We'll address six misconceptions that are common about this type of hair removal to help you get clarity.
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Hair Removal With Laser: What Is True and What Is False?
Summary
- 1. Laser Hair Removal Is Painful
- 2. Laser Hair Removal Does Not Work for All People
- 3. Laser Hair Removal Is Expensive
- 4. Laser Hair Removal Is Not Permanent
- 5. Laser Hair Removal Is Dangerous
- 6. Laser Hair Removal Is Not Recommended for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
- Sources
Published February 29, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
6 min read
Topics:
1. Laser Hair Removal Is Painful
The claim that laser hair removal is painful is a common misconception that discourages many people from trying the technique. Like all other hair removal methods, laser hair removal naturally involves some discomfort.
The intensity of the perceived discomfort depends on the sensitivity of the patient and the area to be treated. The thinner the skin, the more uncomfortable the sensations, especially in the bikini area.
However, there are techniques that should reduce the sensation of burning. These include the use of a stream of cold air and numbing cream.
After the treatment you should moisturize your skin and be sure to protect it from the sun. For this, Typology offers you the body moisturizer with 10 ingredients that are 99% natural in origin. To protect yourself from the UV rays of the sun, choose one of our body sun creams, one with SPF 30 and one with SPF 50.
2. Laser Hair Removal Does Not Work for All People
Correct. Laser hair removal is indeed a practice for everyone, regardless of gender or skin color. However, it does not work on blonde, very fair or even white hair, as they simply do not have melanin and the laser does not react to them.
The claim that it is unsuitable for dark skin types is false. Laser hair removal can be performed on all skin types, provided you use the right device. By the way, this is also the reason why this method of hair removal requires some knowledge.
In order to find the right technique and intensity of the laser for your skin tone, institutes usually perform a diagnosis in advance, where your phototype is determined. This classifies people according to how their skin reacts when exposed to the sun's UV rays. There are six different types, from the lightest to the darkest. Once the person's phototype is determined, the professionals can determine the type of laser to be used, the number of sessions needed, the estimate for the service, etc.
Please note. Laser hair removal is not suitable for people with skin diseases (herpes, injuries, infections...) as well as for people receiving light-sensitizing treatment (Roacutan, cortisone, antibiotics...).
3. Laser Hair Removal Is Expensive
The budget also has an impact on whether laser hair removal is accessible to everyone or not. At first glance, it is clear that this technique is expensive. One session costs about 150 to 180 euros for half a leg, 60 to 80 euros for the armpits and 50 to 130 euros for a classic or full bikini line.
However, laser hair removal can be considered a long-term investment. Ultimately, this practice costs as much or even less than regular purchase of waxing strips or waxing sessions in the beauty salon.
4. Laser Hair Removal Is Not Permanent
Yes and No. Laser hair removal is usually done over 5 to 8 sessions to remove even the fine hairs. Basically, it is a permanent technique. However, there are some exceptions. Hormonal fluctuations can affect the treatment. For example, hair may reappear during pregnancy or menopause.
Also, it is recommended to use this technique in women only from 20-25 years, until the menstrual cycle is stabilized. For men, the age of 30 is the ideal average age for laser hair removal. Below these age limits, it is possible that the hair is not yet mature and therefore can easily regenerate.
5. Laser Hair Removal Is Dangerous
Yes and no. In fact, improperly calibrated laser hair removal can cause depigmentation and burns to the skin. Therefore, proper device adjustment is essential to avoid skin injury.
To date, however, there is no research demonstrating a link between laser hair removal and melanoma or skin cancer. Exposure to radiation is only for a short period of time and usually does not pose a risk.
6. Laser Hair Removal Is Not Recommended for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Correct, even if the laser does not pose a risk to the development of the fetus, it is not essential for the health of the patient during pregnancy. Moreover, laser treatment during pregnancy can promote the appearance of varicose veins, hyperpigmentation, burns and scars due to hormonal fluctuations during this period.
For safety reasons, you should postpone sessions after delivery.
Sources :
I. Catoni, J.R. Manciet, Épilation lasers et lampes, Cosmétologie et Dermatologie esthétique, (2017).
Dr Bernard COHEN, Epilation Laser, (2011).
Piyu Parth Naik, Laser hair removal - Mechanisms and complications, Clin. Pract. (2021)
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