Going Bare: Busting Common Laser Hair Removal Myths

Sick of the nicks, ingrown hairs, and irritation caused by daily shaving? Consider laser hair removal. Laser hair removal treatments offer semi-permanent reduction of hair growth by using laser light to target the melanin in hair follicles. But, as with every medical spa treatment, laser hair removal comes with its own set of myths and misconceptions. We tapped into Allison Tray of Tres Belle MediSpa in Brooklyn, New York, to clear up the confusion!

Myth #1:  Laser hair removal will get rid of 100 percent of your hair… forever.

Truth: Unfortunately, this is a common misconception when it comes to laser hair removal. Allison explained that laser can help you remove 80-90 percent of the hair for good but “what’s left behind should be light and fine.” For those who encounter ingrown hairs or fast-growing dark course stubble, laser, while not 100 percent effective, is a great option for those looking for a more effective form of hair removal.

Myth #2: People with sensitive skin shouldn’t get laser hair removal.

Truth: “Laser is actually great for clients with sensitive skin as it allows clients to no longer deal with irritating wax and the itchy stubble of daily shaving,” shared Allison. “Most clinics use an aloe based gel during the treatment which is soothing to the skin.”

Myth #3: You should wait until ingrown hairs clear up before laser.

Truth: This, too, is false! Alison told us that, “the laser will help to accelerate the healing time of ingrown hairs by killing the infection beneath the skin and encouraging the ingrown hair to pop back out. The treatments may also help to resurface the area so that skin might appear more clear and healthy.”

Looking for laser hair removal in your area? Find a location near you on spafinder.com.