Most Common Myths About Laser Hair Reduction

Laser hair reduction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. Still, many people are not comfortable to opt for the procedure due to several myths associated with it. Hi, I am Dr. Shikha Aggarwal, practicing dermatologist at Bliss Laser Skin Clinic in Ludhiana, Punjab. In this video, I will be bursting some of the really common myths about Laser Hair Reduction.

Myth 1: Laser Hair Reduction does not benefit people of dark complexion.
Fact: Lasers have been used for hair reduction for ages. Earlier, the lasers used for the hair reduction used to emit a shorter wavelength of light which was effective for people with fair skin and dark hair. Now, advanced lasers are used in special settings so that it can also work for people who have a slightly darker skin tone. One should always consult a dermatologist to know whether they are suitable for the procedure or not.

Myth 2: Lasers make the skin darker after the procedure.
Fact: If the right technology is used for laser hair reduction at the right settings by a trained professional, then one does not experience any side-effects. As laser emits a concentrated beam of light which only targets the melanin present in hair follicles and not the skin. Therefore, it is advised to undergo this procedure by well-trained professionals for safe and reliable treatment.

Myth 3: You can get permanent hair reduction in a single session.
Fact: This one is a pure myth. It is impossible to get rid of hair in a single session. This is because hair grows in a different cycle and different timing. So, while the laser targets the grown hair on your body, the new hair which is yet to be sprouted by hair follicles can only be targeted once they grow. Therefore, multiple sessions are recommended. Also, laser hair reduction only provides semi-permanent results which can last around a few years.

Myth 4: Laser makes the hair grow thicker.
Fact: Laser does not make the hair grow thicker. On the contrary, with each session, the hair becomes thinner until the hair growth stops completely in the targeted area. Laser only disrupts the hair growth cycle by delaying the growth period. It does not have any effect on hair texture or density.

Myth 5: Laser Hair Reduction is a painful procedure.
Fact: Nowadays, the laser comes with an active cooling system. Therefore, laser procedures have now become comfortable. Generally, people feel a prickling session while undergoing the procedure which is quite endurable. For a painless session, a numbing cream can also be applied over the target area.

Myth 6: Laser hair reduction is only for women.
Fact: This is just an assumption. Cosmetic procedures are meant for both men and women. Especially, laser hair reduction is very popular among men. They have more coarse and dark hair than females. Laser beard shaping is also an option for males who do not want to spend time in front of the mirror perfecting their beard.

Myth 7: Laser Hair reduction causes hair to grow.
Fact: If laser caused hair growth then it would have been used for hair restoration. So, it is a completely baseless myth. The laser destroys hair follicles and arrests hair growth.

Myth 8: Laser Hair reduction is an expensive procedure.
Fact: Laser treatment for hair reduction may seem like a cost upfront but in the long run, it turns out to be a cost-saving procedure. The laser gives long-lasting results after one takes complete sessions. This saves up a lot of time and money that might be spent upon salon sessions, buying grooming products, etc.

Myth 9: Laser causes cancer.
Fact: Laser Hair Reduction does not cause cancer as the radiation caused by the laser is very minimal. On the contrary, the laser is used to treat various skin cancer or sun damage. Also, laser hair reduction is safe and FDA-approved.

Have any other doubts about laser hair reduction treatment? Please let us know in the comments below and we would try to answer all your questions.