Women and men invest time and money into laser hair removal for many reasons, whether it’s to improve their appearance, reduce body odour, or abide by religious customs.
If you have been disappointed in your hair removal treatment and are wondering why laser hair removal doesn’t work for you, it may be attributed to several genetic or environmental conditions. Each treatment depends on your individual skin type, hair type, and lifestyle preferences.
How Laser Hair Removal Should Work
Laser hair removal is a specialized therapy that uses the heat energy of a concentrated light beam. It targets the melanin in the hair follicle to deter future growth by damaging the follicle. Hair grows in a cycle or stages, known as anagen, catagen, and telogen.
As the laser energy is designed to stop the growth in the active phase, treatments are performed during the anagen stage of growth. This stage for the arms, legs, and face lasts only 30-45 days in comparison to hair follicles on the head, which last 3-7 years.
Common Reasons Why Laser Hair Removal May Not Be Effective
Hair Colour and Skin Tone
Laser hair removal is recommended for most skin types and colours; however, light hair such as blonde, gray, and red has less melanin, making it more difficult to treat with laser energy. Dark pigment better absorbs the heat energy and better destroys the follicle.
Hair Thickness and Density
Fine or sparse hair usually does not absorb the heat energy from the laser and does not affect the follicle. Alternatively, thick and coarse hair may also not see the desired results. Advanced laser hair removal equipment can be adjusted to the density of the hair in most situations.
Hormonal Imbalances
Certain health conditions can cause a hormonal imbalance resulting in increased hair growth. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, menopause, and Cushing’s Disease can stimulate hair growth. Hormones play a major role in the health and development of hair follicles.
Medications
Specific medications and hormone therapies can interfere with the effectiveness of laser hair removal. Prescribed therapies that stimulate hair growth involve steroids, immunosuppressants, anticonvulsants, minoxidil, and oral contraceptives.
Inconsistent Treatments
If you don’t complete the recommended number of sessions and or follow the treatment schedule provided by the medical laser tech, you may see regrowth. The laser hair removal process requires multiple treatments for more permanent results.
Technician Error/Inexperience
A qualified and experienced technician understands the factors that affect laser treatments. Improper laser settings or techniques can not only lead to side effects but can also render the hair removal process successful. Unlike regular shaving and waxing, using specialized equipment requires rigorous training.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Medical conditions that cause excessive hair growth such as hirsutism can affect the results of laser hair removal. Other underlying conditions such as diabetes, lupus, and a history of keloid scarring can impair hair removal.
Unrealistic Expectations
Laser hair removal reduces the growth of the follicle BUT does not completely block regrowth. People undergoing laser treatment may be disappointed if hair grows back in the targeted area. This is why touch-up sessions are needed.
Not Following Post-Treatment Guidelines
Post-care instructions are designed to protect the health of the skin and the hair follicles after laser hair removal treatment. Exposure to direct sunlight, tanning beds, hot showers, or steam rooms can result in irritation, ingrown hairs, and hyperpigmentation of the treated area.
How to Improve Laser Hair Removal Results
- Consult with a Doctor or Endocrinologist: Talking to your doctor or an endocrinologist can help you uncover any potential underlying hormonal imbalances or medical conditions that could hinder the hair removal treatment.
- Choose the Right Laser and Clinic: Research clinics and the type of laser hair removal treatments they offer. The therapy should be provided by an experienced aesthetic technician using the appropriate laser technology based on your hair and skin type.
- Complete the Recommended Treatment Sessions: To improve your laser hair removal results, make sure to follow the recommended treatment plan as designed by your medical aesthetician. This can increase the effectiveness of the therapy.
- Address Hormonal Issues: If you have hormonal imbalances due to medications or lifestyle changes that are impeding the hair removal treatment, it is important to address these issues. This may or may not improve the results of laser hair removal therapies.
- Consider Electrolysis (for lighter hair): This form of hair removal is better for treating light orsparse hairs, where laser treatments may not be effective. It uses electric currents to destroy hair follicles, reducing regrowth. A needle is inserted into the follicle to distribute electric currents that produce heat.
- Manage Expectations: Keep in mind that all laser hair removal treatments are designed to reduce hair growth and do not guarantee the elimination of hair. Maintenance sessions are key for optimal results.
- Be Patient: All laser hair removal treatments require consistent effort and therapies for a flawless result. It is important to be patient with the process as everyone has different hair growth and responses to the treatment.
Prevention Is Key (Best Practices)
- Thorough Consultation: Laser hair removal may cause mild side effects and should not be used if you have certain medical conditions or use specific prescription drugs. Scheduling a detailed consultation before your treatment can help you determine the most effective and safe treatment for you.
- Patch Testing: If this is your first time using laser technology, it is recommended to have a patch test performed to assess your skin’s reaction and determine the appropriate laser settings.
- Follow Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions: To enhance your results and lower the risk of side effects, it is important to follow all pre- and post-treatment advice given by your medical aesthetician.
Learn How Laser Hair Removal Can Be Effective for You at Heart Lake Aesthetics
At Heart Lake Aesthetics, our highly trained medical aestheticians provide laser hair removal in Brampton in a clean medical clinic environment. We use clinically proven Cynosure Lutronic Clarity laser Dual wavelength (Nd yag 1064nm and Alexandrite 755nm) technology that are both safe and effective device for hair removal for all types of skin. Contact us today or email info@heartlakeaesthetics.com to schedule a free consultation.