Myths About Laser Hair Reduction: Who Should Avoid It?

Laser hair reduction has gained a lot of popularity due to its ability to permanently remove unwanted hair. However, many myths still reign around this treatment that confuse people and prevent many applicants from taking advantage of it. In this chapter, we’ll address the most common myths surrounding laser hair reduction, along with a list of things people should avoid for their own safety.

Common misconceptions about laser hair reduction are shared by Dr. Vidushi Jain, dermatologist and medical head at Dermalinks.

1. Laser hair removal is permanent: The most common belief is that laser hair removal permanently gets rid of unwanted hair. In fact, laser hair reduction greatly reduces hair growth but never stops it completely. Several sessions may be needed, and then some grow back, although the color will be finer and lighter over time.

2. Laser hair reduction is painful: The misconception that laser treatments cause scarring is a fact that turns people away from treatment. However, most patients claim that the experience was mild bruising during treatment, which many of them described as akin to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Advanced lasers have built-in cooling that cools the skin even while working, completely reducing discomfort.

3. It works well only on fair skin and dark hair. Although it is more accurate for previous laser technology to work more effectively on lighter skin and darker hair due to pigmentation contrast, recent advances in laser technology have opened it up to treat skin tones and hair colors. .

4. Unsafe for sensitive area: People assume that laser hair reduction is unsafe for sensitive areas such as the face, underarms and bikini line. But the fact is that laser hair reduction is quite safe for these areas if done by a specialist. Targeted skills ensure less burnout and faster recovery time. The patient should follow up with follow-up care. Redness or temporary irritation can be complications if proper care is not taken.

5. It causes cancer: Skin cancer This may be one of the scariest myths, but it’s completely wrong. Laser hair reduction uses non-ionizing radiation that does not damage DNA or cause cancer. It is approved by all regulatory bodies around the world—from the FDA to others around the world—as a safe and effective hair loss treatment.

Who Should Not Have Laser Hair Reduction?

Although the procedure, laser hair reduction, is safe, there are some conditions and situations where individuals should not try it at all.

1. Active skin conditions or infections: Patients with the following active skin conditions or infections are not eligible for laser hair reduction: eczema, psoriasis, and severe acne. Such active infections flare up and cause skin damage along with discomfort during laser hair reduction.

2. Pregnant and lactating mothers: No documented studies have been found that indicate adverse effects of laser hair removal on pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, but many practitioners advise against it as a precaution during pregnancy.

3. Keloid scar formers or passive wound healers: When the person develops keloids or the wound healing process is dysfunctional, laser treatment should be used with caution. A person may develop unwanted scars due to laser treatment.

4. Those with tanned skin: Candidates who have previously spent a lot of time under the sun or have dull skin should delay laser hair removal therapy. Pigmented skin will absorb more light from the laser which can increase the potential risks of burns, skin discoloration and damage.

5. Patients on certain medications: There are certain drugs such as photosensitizing drugs that increase the effect of light on the skin. Such patients should avoid laser hair reduction as their skin may react adversely to it.

Although most people are good candidates for this procedure, people with certain skin conditions or who take certain medications, pregnant women, etc., should seek medical advice before making a final decision about treatment. A professional should be consulted. Find only qualified dermatologists or laser technicians to give you your best results.