Laser hair removal is an effective solution for permanent hair removal, in use every day around the world to remove unwanted hair from all parts of the body. Unfortunately, much of the conventional wisdom about laser hair removal arose in the early days of this technology, giving rise to a number of myths that simply aren't true today. Here are 5 myths about laser hair removal:
Myth: Laser hair removal won't work on all hair colors.
Because lasers target the melanin in dark hairs, and early machines required high contrast in order to work effectively, many people believe that laser hair removal only works on those with light skin and dark hair. However, contemporary machines are more accurate than ever before, and will work on almost all hair colors.
Myth: Laser hair removal has the same effect on all hair types.
Not only does hair type differ between individuals, but there are different types and colors of hair on different parts of the same person's body. These different types of hair may respond differently to laser treatments, but there is no type of hair or part of the body that is not a candidate for laser hair removal treatments.
Myth: Laser hair removal isn't effective for people of color.
Early laser machines were less effective or more painful for people with darker skin complexion, or people with deep tans. Modern technologies are more sophisticated and advanced, meaning that laser hair removal can now be safely performed on all skin colors and tones.
Myth: Laser hair removal is guaranteed to remove hair forever.
Laser hair removal permanently damages the hair follicle, impeding hair regrowth from that follicle. However, due to the density of hair follicles all over the body, and the natural changes that occur over time (changes in hair growth with hormone changes over time, the body's natural healing and repairing processes), most people require maintenance followup after laser hair removal. These maintenance sessions decrease in frequency over time, to the point where many people only require a touchup session every year or two. The effects of laser hair removal are permanent, but that doesn't mean that a course of treatment removes unwanted hair forever.
Myth: Laser hair removal can't be done in summer.
Many people think that laser hair removal can't be done in summer, which is unfortunate because summertime involves lighter clothing, beach trips, and swimming pools. Many people are most interested in long-term hair removal during the summer, in order to save time and look their best. Due to earlier difficulties with tanned skin, and the need to protect the skin from sun exposure after treatment, many people came to believe that laser hair removal couldn't be done in summertime. But with modern machines and techniques, laser hair removal can be safely performed all year long.
As we can see, while many of these misconceptions about laser hair removal were true in the past, the technology has since evolved and improved. Today, these machines are more sophisticated, sensitive, and effective than ever, making long-term hair removal simpler, painless, and longer-lasting for all skin and hair types.