Why laser hair removal doesn’t work

More and more people are opting for laser hair removal, which, with rare maintenance sessions, allows for the permanent removal of unwanted hair. However, there are cases where clients are dissatisfied with the results because they did not meet their expectations. Why does laser hair removal sometimes not work? Let’s explore the most popular reasons.

Incorrect Interval Between Sessions

Usually, laser hair removal for the face and other body parts is done in a course: 6–8 sessions with a 4–6 week break. Hair goes through several growth stages: active, transitional, and resting phases. Laser hair removal is only effective in the first phase. An incorrect interval between sessions can disrupt this cycle, making it impossible to remove some hairs.

Does laser hair removal work? Yes, if you choose the right interval between sessions. This ensures synchronization of the laser hair removal process with the appropriate hair growth phases, leading to good results. If the interval between laser hair removal sessions is too short, the course of treatments may be ineffective. That’s why it’s important to choose reliable salons with top professionals.

The number of sessions can vary significantly among different clients: some may need more, while others need fewer. This depends on individual characteristics, particularly hair growth rate. Therefore, the number of sessions and the interval between them are determined by the laser hair removal specialist. Read more in our article about how long laser hair removal takes.

Hair Color

Many people wonder: does laser hair removal work on light and red hair? While it was once believed that lasers only worked on dark hair, this is no longer the case: modern lasers can handle any hair type, except gray hair. However, for effective laser hair removal of light or thin hair, outdated machines should not be used—more powerful and precise lasers are required, along with a combination of various additional technologies.

Laser hair removal is most effective when the hair is significantly darker than the surrounding skin. This contrast allows the laser to easily target the pigment in the hair, which acts as a kind of “magnet” for the laser energy. The absence of melanin is precisely why laser hair removal does not work on gray hair. When the laser interacts with melanin, it converts into heat energy that destroys the hair follicle. The more pigment the hair contains, the fewer sessions are typically needed to achieve optimal results.

Hormonal Imbalance

It’s no secret that hormones affect many of the body’s systems, including hair growth, thickness, and texture: on the face, in the armpits, or other body parts. Therefore, any problems with hormone levels can cause laser hair removal to be ineffective. For example, the procedure is often not recommended for teenagers due to hormonal instability. If you have endocrine diseases, schedule your session after the treatment prescribed by your endocrinologist. Hair removal during pregnancy and breastfeeding is possible but should be discussed with a specialist. Book a free consultation at LaserVille and make sure the method is right for you.

Expecting Quick Results

Many clients mistakenly and prematurely wonder why laser hair removal doesn’t seem to work, expecting smooth, hair-free skin right after the first session. In reality, noticeable hair shedding occurs within 10–20 days after treatment, but dormant follicles can later resume hair growth. This can create the impression that laser hair removal is ineffective. Visible results typically start to appear around the 4th session, while truly smooth skin is usually achieved by the 6th to 8th session.

Failure to Follow Pre- and Post-Treatment Care Guidelines

Had laser hair removal but see no results? Achieving the best results from the course of treatments is only possible by following all the pre- and post-treatment care recommendations. It’s important to remember the following rules:

1. For 3–4 weeks before the session, do not remove hair by the roots: no sugaring, waxing, or epilation. During this period, and between sessions as part of the course, only shaving is allowed.
2. For two weeks before the procedure, avoid sunbathing and tanning beds (with Moveo technology, only 3–5 days are needed).
3. If you are using medications that contain tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, retinoids, or other photosensitizers, the procedure should be postponed. They can make the skin more sensitive to laser exposure and increase the risk of complications.
4. Three days before the session, stop using alcohol-based cosmetic products. Also, do not apply deodorant to the skin on the day of the hair removal.
5. Shave the hair thoroughly before the procedure—the treatment is performed on smooth skin.
6. Protect your skin for a few days after the session: avoid physical exertion, high temperatures, and sun exposure, and use moisturizers with panthenol.

By following these recommendations, you will achieve the desired effect from laser hair removal on the abdomen and other body parts.

Effect of Laser Type on Laser Hair Removal Effectiveness

Let’s consider the main equipment-related reasons why laser hair removal may not work or why it may be more effective:

1. Outdated lasers have limited power and pulse duration characteristics, so the light does not penetrate the skin deeply enough to effectively destroy the hair follicles.
2. Modern lasers use an optimal wavelength, allowing for precise laser settings tailored to the skin phototype and hair color.
3. Previous generation lasers are less safe due to high thermal load on the skin or insufficient accuracy of radiation exposure. This can lead to skin damage and unwanted effects.
4. Using outdated lasers may require more sessions to achieve the desired result.
5. Modern lasers are constantly improving and adapting to various skin types and shades, achieving better results with fewer sessions and less risk to skin health.

To avoid situations where laser hair removal doesn’t work, it’s important to choose a salon that uses modern and certified laser systems. Such are the laser hair removal centers at LaserVille!

Specialist’s Experience

The effectiveness of laser hair removal directly depends on the qualification and experience of the specialist performing the procedure. A lack of skills can lead to incorrect laser parameter settings (e.g., power and pulse duration). This reduces hair removal effectiveness or causes skin damage.

To achieve optimal results, it’s also important to correctly determine the skin and hair type, as this affects the choice of laser type and settings. An incorrect assessment can lead to ineffective laser impact on the hair follicles. At LaserVille salons, procedures are performed by experienced professionals with medical education, so you won’t have to wonder why there’s no result from laser hair removal.

Why there may be no effect from laser hair removal: conclusions

There are many reasons why laser hair removal may not work. These include not following the treatment intervals, hormonal imbalance, expecting immediate results, using outdated lasers, and more. To avoid poor results, consult an experienced specialist who will determine the correct treatment interval and adjust the laser to your needs. Then the question of whether laser hair removal works will no longer be relevant.