The most common methods for getting rid of unwanted hair includes waxing, plucking, threading, and shaving. While these methods are effective, they are not a permanent solution. Hair can begin to grow back as early as two days after being removed using the above treatments and will definitely begin growing back within a week. There are also additional downsides to the methods mentioned above, such as aggravated skin and pigmentation, there is also the issue of dealing with annoying stubble.

A more long-lasting approach to getting rid of unwanted hair is undertaking laser hair removal. Even though laser hair removal has been continuesly growing in popularity for more than a decade, it’s still not as common as some of the other hair removal procedures and this could be because of the many myths and misconceptions that surround it.

While the promise of a stubble-free and hair-free life is tempting, it’s important to see if there are any truths to some of the more common myths surrounding laser hair removal. Below we take a look at 5 common myths surrounding laser hair removal.

Laser Hair Removal is Painful

The word “laser” can sound painful, but the truth is the procedure is way less painful compared to other hair removal methods, like waxing. Clients who have had laser hair removal treatments say that they feel more of a discomfort than pain, the sensation is similar to the sting of a rubber band snap, but only for a fraction of a second. Thanks to modern technology, some machines have comfort features such as cooling mechanisms to minimize the sensation of the quick sting.

One Session of Laser Hair Removal is Enough

You are going to have to exercise some patience when you get this procedure done. One session is not enough to have permanent hair removal. Depending on the machine used, it could take anywhere from 8-12 sessions for long-term results. After your first session, you will be able to see initial results in roughly two to three weeks.

Laser Hair Removal is Expensive

A laser hair removal session is costlier than a single waxing session or paying for a razor and shaving cream, but think of it as more of an investment. If you calculate what the cost associated to decades of waxing and shaving, laser hair removal is the less expensive option.

Shaving is Just Easier

Shaving is more convenient as you can do it yourself at your own time frame, but it is also time consuming, can lead to nicks and it is not fun when the hair begins to grow back after a day or two. In some cases, your skin may itch after shaving because the hair will continue to grow underneath your skin.

Laser hair removal, on the other hand only takes 10 minutes and there’s no recovery time after the procedure. Some clinics have flexible hours, especially during the weekend. You will have to set aside time for your sessions, but in the long run, it is much easier to be hair-free for good. No more messy DIY waxing strips, no more trips to the salon, no more stubble, and best of all, no more ingrown hairs.

Your Hair Will Grow Back Eventually

Usually, the results of laser hair removal are significantly long-lasting. It’s true that you won’t be hairless forever, but it’ll take a significant amount of years (decades) before you see any re-growth. There are some cases where clients see re-growth earlier because of several factors such as age, hormonal changes, and genetics, but that’s where touch-up sessions come in.