We’ve all been there —breaking our heads about how to approach hair removal. The most common methods of shaving, waxing, and plucking are a hassle. Whether it’s razor bumps, painful waxing strips, or the constant upkeep, traditional hair removal methods often leave us feeling frustrated (sometimes even itchy!). That’s where laser hair removal, or laser depilation, is your best friend.
Laser depilation is a method for reducing unwanted hair on areas such as the legs, underarms, bikini line, and face. It targets hair follicles with gentle beams of light. The light heats the hair follicle, damaging it so it will not grow easily. The hair will become noticeably finer and thinner in time and eventually disappear altogether.
The best part about laser depilation is that it is kind to your skin. No more nicks from razors, painful ingrown hairs, or irritation from waxing. It is suitable for both men and women and can be tailored to different skin types and hair colours with the right technology.
You can check out Colibri Laser and Beauty for details about laser depilation. In this blog, we will debunk 5 top myths about laser depilation.
Myth 1 – Laser depilation is Painful
One of the most common misconceptions about laser depilation is that it is painful. When you read the science behind laser depilation, you read about damaging hair follicles and imagine the process to be painful. This myth discourages people from considering laser treatment for hair removal, even though the reality is quite different.
We have at some point endured the pain of waxing and plucking. But laser depilation works differently. Experts describe the sensation felt during laser depilation as a quick snap, similar to a rubber band being flicked on the skin. Some describe it as a mild heat sensation. The discomfort is short-lived and tolerable for most people.
Modern laser equipment is designed with built-in cooling systems. These systems help soothe the skin before, during, and after each laser pulse. This reduces any probable discomfort. Some machines even use air or contact cooling to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
Testimonials by clients report surprise at how manageable the treatment is. One 28-year-old client shared, “I was scared it would hurt, but it was surprisingly tolerable”. Her story is the same as many who expected a painful procedure but were pleasantly surprised.
Laser depilation is not really the painful ordeal that people imagine. With modern technology and expert application, it’s a safe, efficient, and comfortable.
Myth 2 – It Only Works on Light Skin and Dark Hair
The second common myth about laser depilation is that it doesn’t work as well on darker skin tones. This myth originated from the fact that lasers target melanin. The melanin in the hair follicle is what the laser aims to damage. Thus, the misconception was that laser depilation worked best on light skin with dark hair.
Laser depilation did not work as effectively on darker skin tones with the earlier technology. However, new technology is available that works on all skin tones. Newer lasers like Nd: YAG are safe and effective for darker skin tones. Laser depilation with the new laser technology has shown remarkable results for darker skin tones.
For Indian and Hispanic skin tones, the Diode laser has been a game changer. Even if the contrast is not as stark as with lighter skin tones, this technology has been tried, tested, and proven effective.
Myth 3 – Laser Hair Removal is Permanent after One Session
Laser depilation is essentially long-term hair reduction. This is very different from instant or total hair removal. Hair growth has three phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. The anagen phase is the growth phase. It is the active phase when hair is attached to the follicle and growing. The catagen phase is the transition phase where the hair detaches from the follicle and stops growing. The telogen phase is the resting phase where the follicle is inactive, and the hair will be shed eventually.
Laser depilation is only effective in the anagen phase. The pigment in the hair can absorb the laser’s energy in this phase and destroy the follicle. But at a given point in time, the hairs in a specific area are in different growth phases. The laser depilation will be effective only on hairs in the anagen phase, which is why multiple sessions are necessary. Typically, people need 6 to 8 sessions spaced a few weeks apart to target all hairs at the right stage of growth.
Even after a full course of treatment, some maintenance or touch-up sessions may be needed over time. Hair regrowth can occur due to hormonal changes or genetics.
Laser depilation significantly reduces hair density and thickness, but doesn’t always remove 100% of hair permanently. In most cases, hair that does return is finer and lighter in colour.
Myth 4 – It’s Unsafe
One of the most persistent myths about laser depilation is that it is dangerous. The common misconception is that it can lead to cancer and cause fertility problems. These fears are usually rooted in the misunderstanding of how laser technology works.
Firstly, laser depilation uses non-ionizing radiation. Unlike ionizing radiation (such as X-rays or UV rays), non-ionizing radiation does not cause damage to DNA or cause cellular mutations. The laser beam used in laser depilation is specifically designed to target melanin in the hair follicle. It does not penetrate deep enough into the body to affect internal organs or reproductive tissues.
Another concern is whether laser depilation causes cancer. There is no scientific or clinical evidence linking laser depilation to any form of cancer. Studies show that laser depilation, when performed by trained professionals using FDA-approved devices, is safe and effective.
There is also no evidence to support the connection between laser depilation and fertility issues. This myth likely arises from treatments near sensitive areas such as the bikini line and or lower abdomen. Lasers do not reach the ovaries, uterus, or any other reproductive organs. They only affect the skin’s surface and hair follicles.
As long as the treatment is carried out by a licensed, experienced practitioner using appropriate equipment for your skin type, the risk of side effects is minimal.
Myth 5 – You Can’t Get Laser depilation in Summer or on Tanned Skin
This myth stems from concerns about sensitivity to pigments. These concerns may have had some merit in the past, but with advancements in technology, laser treatments are now much safer and more adaptable for all skin types.
The main issue is that lasers work by targeting melanin, and tanned skin contains more melanin than usual. This increases the risk of skin irritation, burns, or hyperpigmentation if not managed properly. Modern lasers like Nd: YAG are designed for darker or tanned skin. They penetrate deeper into the skin without damaging the surrounding tissue.
Many professionals recommend waiting at least 2 weeks after sun exposure or a tanning session before undergoing laser depilation. This gives your skin time to return closer to its natural tone, reducing the chance of side effects. Reputable clinics will adjust the laser’s settings, such as energy level, pulse duration, and wavelength, based on your skin tone and sun exposure.
After treatment, it is mandatory to use a broad-spectrum SPF on the treated area to protect it from UV damage.
The Final Follicle
There you have it. The five most common myths about laser depilation debunked. Laser depilation is not extremely painful. It causes a tolerable discomfort, as given in the client testimonials. With the advancement in technology, it works effectively on all skin types and tones. Laser depilation requires multiple treatment sessions to reduce hair growth, and 100% hair removal is not guaranteed. It does not have any links to cancer or fertility issues. The right practitioner will suggest the right laser for your skin tone – tanned or not.
Laser depilation is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair. When you make up your mind to go for laser depilation, do your research well. Check if the practitioner is a certified professional and check for online reviews and client testimonials. Colibri Laser and Beauty is a reputed place for laser depilation if you are in Toronto.
Don’t let these common myths stop you from enjoying smooth, hair-free skin!