If you have not tried laser hair removal and you are not sure what it is about, there will be a pessimist who will tell you a thousand and one reasons not to do it. But many of them are myths, falsehoods and misinterpretations.
Laser hair removal is based on selective photothermolysis, that is, the absorption of specific light of a certain wavelength from the hair to be destroyed without affecting the surrounding skin. The light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair, converted into heat and decomposed, thus preventing its reappearance.
Suitable candidates for laser hair removal are those who want to get rid of unwanted hair growth anywhere on the body except the scalp. The most common applications refer to:
- Face – mustache
- Limbs – arms and legs
- Bikini and sensitive area
- Back
- Armpit
- Breast
With this hair removal method, many hairs are removed at the same time. Its use inactivates the hair follicles when they are in the growth phase. Therefore, it is considered necessary to repeat the procedure with an interval of 1-3 months, to achieve a long-term result.
Do you think that laser hair removal is not very safe or inappropriate for you? If so, this article might clarify a few points and restore your confidence about the procedure.
Here are some of the most shared myths about laser hair removal, keep reading to find out:
Myth 1: laser hair removal exposes you to radiation
This is a terrible misunderstanding. It is a myth that proliferates among those who do not know what laser technology is. The laser is like visible light. It does not emit any radiation that can enter the cell and cause mutations or do harm.
Myth 2: Laser hair removal cannot be done on dark skin color
By having a darker skin tone, it does not mean that you cannot have laser hair removal. It just means that your skin absorbs the laser more. The problem is solved by adjusting the intensity of the laser and increasing the number of sessions.
Myth 3: You can end up with burns after a laser procedure
Laser technology is very precise and thorough. It does not come out of the hair follicle or affect the skin around it. It destroys the follicle in the process using heat, but burns are a very rare complication. They could be a bit more common with dark-skinned individuals. However, this can be solved by planning the procedure according to your skin type.
Myth 4: You shouldn’t have laser hair removal in the summer
What is really not recommended is applying lasers after a tan or sunburn. And even on slightly tanned skin the procedure could be performed by adjusting the intensity of the laser. Similarly, after the procedure you should avoid the sun and protect yourself. But if the appropriate measures are taken, the season is no impediment.
Myth 5: You won’t have to worry about waxing after the first session
Actually, it takes between 3 to 7 sessions so that the hair does not grow any more. In the process, you will see how the hair grows thinner and more fragile. But it would be unrealistic to expect a permanent effect after the first session.
Now, as with all medical procedures, laser hair removal can cause some problems. We strongly recommend to do a proper due diligence to find out everything you need to know before getting a procedure done. For example, it could cause parts of the skin to change color. However, all these apparent problems are solved if you consult a good dermatologist. So, contact a dermatologist in your area who can perform an initial evaluation. In this way you will avoid any complications and you will achieve that permanently soft skin after a perfect laser hair removal.
