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September 10, 2023As a sugaring specialist in Richmond, Virginia, I’ve witnessed firsthand the rise of laser hair removal (LHR) and its popularity among clients eager for smooth, hair-free skin. However, in the haste to embrace its benefits, several myths and misconceptions have been spread, leading to unrealistic expectations. It’s important to understand how laser hair removal compares to sugaring and waxing and how, in most cases, even after Laser Hair Removal, you’ll still have hair to remove.
The first myth that needs busting right away is the idea of 100% hair elimination. Contrary to the claims of some overzealous advertising campaigns, laser hair removal is not a silver bullet. It will not eradicate every single hair from your body, regardless of the promises made by some clinics or the glossy before-and-after pictures on their websites.
Let’s break it down. The human body has around 2,500 hair follicles per square inch of skin. The number might seem overwhelming, but consider this: most of these follicles remain dormant, some for as long as 20 years! Hormones affect your hair growth, and any significant change in your body – such as hormonal imbalances, pregnancies, surgeries, and even prolonged use of antibiotics can stimulate these dormant follicles into activity. Conditions like PCOS can also trigger excessive hair growth, a challenge many women face. Unless the follicles are correctly damaged with Laser Hair Removal, waxing, sugaring, or electrolysis, they can still produce hair.
While you can hope for up to an 80% reduction in hair growth through Laser Hair Removal, it’s crucial to understand that this doesn’t translate to 100% smooth, hair-free skin forever. Life changes, as does your body, which can result in hair regrowth.
Clients should know that waxing or sugaring is prohibited during Laser Hair Removal treatments. It’s best to shave the day before your session to optimize results. This timing ensures the laser energy targets the hair’s bulb inside the follicle instead of dispersing through a long hair, and properly concentrated energy yields the best results. If shaving is challenging for you, Laser Hair Removal might not be your ideal choice.
It’s also essential for clients to understand the different types of machines used for LHR. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), commonly found in the market, has limitations. It is often the least comfortable option and most effective on fair skin with dark hair. Darker skin tones can benefit more from YAG and Candela laser technologies, usually found in higher-end spas or dermatology clinics. These technologies tend to be more comfortable due to their cooling or pain-reduction features.
Like any procedure, Laser Hair Removal has potential pitfalls. Over-treatment can lead to burns, scabbing, or scarring, while under-treatment could stimulate MORE hair growth. For optimal results, you must continue your treatments for the recommended duration. A minimum of six sessions, extending to 36 or more, can be necessary before visible reductions occur.
The journey toward hair reduction can be long and requires patience. Some clients have been waxing for 20 years before seeing bald patches, while others have been sugaring for three years and notice a reduction in hair regrowth.
Remember this: hair growth and reduction are complex processes influenced by numerous factors, many of which are outside our control. Therefore, having realistic expectations and approaching LHR as a journey, not a quick fix, is crucial. And above all, always do your research, get multiple consultations, and follow your clinician’s instructions meticulously.
Whether you’re a seasoned sugaring or waxing client or new to professional hair removal, I’m here to help answer your questions and help you determine the best method for you. Please don’t hesitate to call or text me at 804-625-8044, or we can discuss at your next appointment.