Table Of Content
- The five myths that keep circling
- 01. Laser works only on light skin
- 02. One session clears everything
- 03. Laser is too painful to tolerate
- 04. Results are permanent removal for life
- 05. IPL is the same as laser
- Safety, training and the UK landscape
- Choosing devices that silence myths
- Final myth check, in one picture
Laser hair removal is widely used in UK clinics, yet myths still put people off or set poor expectations. Here are five persistent claims, handled with facts from physics and practice. Where it makes sense, we link to deeper reads and give clear next steps for clinics.
The five myths that keep circling
01. Laser works only on light skin
- The myth: Darker complexions cannot have laser safely.
- The reality: With the right wavelength and cooling, darker skin types are very treatable. Nd YAG at one thousand and sixty four nanometres penetrates deeper while interacting less with epidermal melanin. That is why modern three in one systems include Nd YAG alongside Alexandrite and diode.
Melanin absorbs light differently by wavelength, so selection matters. A quick primer on melanin and targeting is here: melanin basics. For practical tips by skin tone, see our guide on Afro Caribbean skin.
02. One session clears everything
- The myth: You walk in hairy and walk out smooth forever.
- The reality: Hair grows in phases. Only follicles in active growth respond strongly to light based treatments, whether laser or IPL. Courses typically span six to eight sessions for laser with spacing around four to six weeks. Some areas then need tidy maintenance.
We map out common milestones in two pieces: after three sessions and after six sessions.
03. Laser is too painful to tolerate
- The myth: The heat is unbearable and unsafe.
- The reality: Clients describe a quick elastic snap that fades fast. Integrated cooling, correct pulse width and thoughtful technique keep discomfort brief. Mild redness or tiny bumps are common and usually settle within a couple of days, in line with Mayo Clinic guidance. More serious effects are rare with trained practitioners, as noted here: rare events.
Comfort tip: Avoid caffeine pre appointment, shave neatly the night before, and apply a bland moisturiser after treatment.
04. Results are permanent removal for life
- The myth: Once done, hair never returns.
- The reality: The correct term is permanent reduction. Most clients enjoy long quieter periods with finer regrowth. Hormones and genetics can nudge new hairs later, so top ups are normal. We explain durability here: how long results last.
05. IPL is the same as laser
- The myth: Results match, so just pick the cheapest option.
- The reality: Laser uses a single wavelength that targets melanin with precision. IPL uses a broad spectrum shaped by filters. That spread dilutes energy at the follicle. Studies and reviews consistently find stronger reduction with diode and Alexandrite platforms at several months, compared with IPL, as summarised here: reduction rates.
| Aspect | IPL | Professional laser |
|---|---|---|
| Light source | Broad spectrum, filtered | Single wavelength, focused |
| Typical course | Eight to twelve sessions | Six to eight sessions |
| Skin tone coverage | Best on lighter tones | All tones with 755, 808 and 1064 |
Curious about use cases. See our comparison of IPL versus laser.
Safety, training and the UK landscape
England is introducing a licence for non surgical cosmetic procedures which includes laser hair removal. Details appear on the GOV.UK website. Sensible governance helps keep treatment risks low and client trust high.
Every British Institute of Lasers machine includes free training and certification options, plus rapid UK support. Our programme covers Core of Knowledge, device operation and maintenance, skin typing and safety. That means new staff settle quickly and insurers are reassured.
Choosing devices that silence myths
Clinics want consistent reduction across mixed skin tones, swift appointments and calm skin. Three wavelengths in one device give you that flexibility. Our FDA approved systems cover skin types I to VI with robust cooling and very low running costs:
- Nu TriLaze Plus: Three in one with a built in skin analyser and interchangeable tips for intricate zones. Nu TriLaze Plus.
- Nu eRays Plus: Handpiece controls, quick pulses, durable build. Nu eRays Plus.
- Nu TriLaze Lite: Compact, mobile friendly and wonderfully efficient. Nu TriLaze Lite.
Browse the full line here: laser hair removal machines. Ready to see one live. Book a Demo. Need specifications, finance and lead times. Request Details. For clinic safety support, our Laser Protection Advisor service is available.
Final myth check, in one picture
Different wavelengths, different strengths. Select wisely, apply good cooling, and space sessions by the hair cycle. The myths fade, and results speak for themselves.
