Myths About Hair Removal

Hair removal is by no means a modern phenomenon. People have been getting rid of hair from their faces and bodies for thousands of years, going all the way back to Ancient Egypt. Of course, during this time we have seen developments in the methods of hair removal. These methods include epilators and laser machines.

However, there are a lot of common misconceptions about hair removal. At VIVO Clinic, we believe that people should be fully informed about treatments and not misled. As a result of this, we have put together a list of myths about hair removal that are completely false so that you know what you are letting yourself in for!

Hair grows back thicker and darker

Many people think that when they shave or wax their hair, it will grow back thicker and darker. This is not the case! Both of these methods temporarily remove hair but do not get rid of the hair from the root. Shaving targets the part of the hair shaft that is above the skin, while waxing only removes a tiny part of the hair that is under the skin. Neither of these methods targets the hair follicle, which is what causes the hair to contain pigment. Therefore, methods such as shaving and waxing will not affect the colour of your hair, so it will not grow back darker.

Regarding the thickness of hair, this will not change due to hair removal. On the contrary, the thickening of hair occurs when you have hormonal changes, such as during puberty. You can see this when the thin Vellus hairs on areas such as the face become thicker, turning into Terminal hairs. Don’t worry – your leg hair won’t magically grow back thicker after shaving. If it does feel thicker, this is probably because the hairs are short and blunt.

Laser Hair Removal doesn’t work on blonde hair or dark skin

Laser Hair Removal works by heating the hair shaft and damaging the follicle so that no new hair grows back. The hair absorbs heat through the pigment called melanin that gives hair its colour. It is logical that the treatment works better on people with darker hair, as it contains a greater amount of pigment. Yet, this does not mean that blonde hair is unsuitable for treatment.

Technology has developed so that lasers can target all hair colours and skin types – our Laser Hair Removal equipment is no exception to this. However, there is less melanin in lighter hair colours, so it may take more sessions to cause enough damage to the hair follicles.

In regards to darker skin, people think that this is untreatable because of the high content of melanin. Fortunately, this is not true! Wavelengths including Nd:YAG have been developed that have lower levels of absorption by melanin. This means that the melanin in the skin will not absorb the heat, making the treatment safe for darker skin.

Methods of temporary hair removal are cheaper than permanent hair removal

Regarding a one use basis, this might be true. However, over time the cost of methods of temporary hair removal such as waxing and shaving build up. It is shocking how many hours that people, especially women, spend shaving the hair on the bodies during their lifetime! Methods such as Laser Hair Removal can be very cost-effective, as you may only need five or six sessions to see significant results. Although the sessions will cost more than razors and wax, this will save you time and money in the long-term. Laser Hair Removal stops hair from growing back, so you do not need to waste time removing it!

Laser Hair Removal is always painful

This is perhaps the biggest concern regarding any method of hair removal, though especially Laser Hair Removal. First of all, it is important to bear in mind that pain is different from person to person, as some people’s skin may be more sensitive than others. Laser Hair Removal is generally not a painful procedure. Most people feel a tiny stinging sensation but this only lasts seconds.

Furthermore, if you or your practitioners use laser diode technology rather than an ordinary laser, it significantly reduces any pain you may feel. Our laser technology at VIVO Clinic cools the skin so it does not get too hot or receive superficial burns. As a result of this, Laser Hair Removal is more comfortable and relaxing than ever!

We hope that this has dispelled some of your doubts about hair removal! Always make sure to consider your options, and make the choice that is best for you!