Five laser hair removal myths we hear every week — debunked.

Laser hair removal is one of our most popular treatments — and one of the most misunderstood. Here are the five myths we hear every week, and the truth behind each.

Myth 1: "Laser hair removal is permanent after one session"

Reality: No. Hair grows in cycles (anagen, catagen, telogen). Laser only effectively treats hair in the active growth (anagen) phase — about 20–30% of your hair at any time. That's why you need 6–8 sessions, spaced 4–8 weeks apart, to catch each cycle. After a full course, you'll see 80–90% permanent reduction. Maintenance sessions (1–2 per year) keep it that way.

Myth 2: "Laser doesn't work on dark skin"

Reality: It does — but you need the right laser. Older Nd:YAG lasers were designed specifically for darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) because they bypass the melanin in the skin and target the hair follicle directly. At KPC we use a diode laser with adjustable settings that works safely on all skin types. Dark skin needs more sessions and lower energy, not fewer and higher.

Myth 3: "Laser hurts a lot"

Reality: Modern lasers have built-in cooling tips that numb the skin as they work. Most patients describe the sensation as a rubber band snap — uncomfortable, not painful. Sensitive areas (bikini, upper lip) are more sensitive than arms or legs. We apply numbing cream for sensitive areas on request.

Myth 4: "Laser causes cancer"

Reality: No. Laser hair removal uses non-ionising radiation — the same type of light energy as a lightbulb, just focused. It does not damage DNA or cause cancer. The wavelengths used (800–1064nm) penetrate only 1–4mm into the skin, reaching the hair follicle but not deeper tissue.

Myth 5: "Laser is the same as waxing"

Reality: Waxing pulls hair out by the root — it grows back in 3–6 weeks. Laser destroys the follicle's ability to produce hair — permanently. Waxing is temporary; laser is permanent reduction. The upfront cost of laser is higher, but over 5 years (vs. monthly waxing), laser is cheaper.

The honest summary

Laser hair removal works. It's one of the most evidence-based aesthetic treatments available. It's not magic — you need multiple sessions, some maintenance, and realistic expectations. But for most people, it's a genuinely life-changing treatment.

Book a free patch test to see how your skin responds.