Why is laser hair removal ineffective for me?

Laser hair removal may not work for various reasons, such as hair color, hormonal changes, using unsuitable laser technology, etc.

Permanent laser hair removal has achieved tremendous success thanks to its incredible effectiveness in permanently removing hair. Despite its high success rate, some people fail to achieve the desired results.

Let's take a look at these different reasons and try to understand why laser hair removal can be ineffective.

The hair does not contain enough melanin

Hair type and color significantly impact the quality and results of your laser hair removal. Downy hair and light, under-pigmented hair, such as white, blond, gray, or red hair, are difficult to target with the laser beam.

In other words, the laser works best on dark hairs concentrated in melanin, regardless of skin color, because this allows the laser beam to locate them and destroy them permanently.

If you have light hair, the most suitable permanent hair removal method is electrolysis. The results are 100% permanent, and no hair color is immune to this effective method.

Find out more about electrolysis and its effectiveness on light hair.

Hair type is another factor that influences laser results. Thicker hair is more receptive to laser treatment because the hair follicles are more prominent, while finer hair is more subtle and lighter.

Hormonal imbalances

If you suffer from hormonal imbalances or conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, which are conditions caused by elevated androgen (male hormone) levels in women, this can lead to various problems, including excessive hair growth.

Hormonal changes can also occur during pregnancy, puberty, or menopause, all of which impact your hormone levels.

Laser hair removal during periods of hormonal fluctuations is not effective. It must be performed during a stable hormonal period. This is why we advise against laser treatment for our guests during pregnancy and breastfeeding, for example.

By the way, if you want to know how long it takes to start or resume laser hair removal sessions after pregnancy or breastfeeding, read our article Laser Hair Removal and Breastfeeding: Is It Possible?

Unqualified practitioner

It is essential that laser hair removal professionals have a perfect command of the latest permanent hair removal methods and the handling of different laser machines and technologies.

Before booking your first laser treatment with a specialist, find out everything you need to know: the practitioner's expertise, the machine used, follow-up sessions, safety protocols, etc. Check out testimonials from previous clients online and talk to the therapist who will be treating you.

At the house of SSSkin , before starting a treatment, we offer our guests a free initial consultation without obligation allowing them to test our laser technology and ask our therapists any questions they may have.

Book a free consultation

Unsuitable laser technology

The laser hair removal industry has evolved dramatically in recent years. A reputable permanent hair removal center must invest in the latest, modern laser machines to ensure the comfort and safety of their clients, as well as highly satisfactory results.

If you are treated at a center equipped with inadequate laser technology and old or defective equipment, there is a high probability that the results and procedure will not meet your expectations.

Not being diligent during your treatment

The success of permanent laser hair removal also depends on the responsibility of the host, who must respect the recommended number of sessions and the spacing between them. Generally, therapists recommend performing between 5 and 8 laser sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart, depending on the area to be treated.

It is essential to adhere to these time frames because the hair growth cycle goes through three phases and the anagen phase is the most conducive for the laser to effectively destroy the hair follicles.

We also recommend completing your treatment and not skipping any sessions. Hairs are not all in the same growth phase at the time of treatment. Therefore, several successive laser sessions are required to fully treat them.

Lack of preparation before laser hair removal

Improper or insufficient preparation before laser hair removal sessions can impair the results. It's important to be well prepared before each session. Here are some tips to follow.

• Shave the area to be treated 1 to 2 days before each session.
• Avoid waxing for 1 to 2 weeks before your first laser session and throughout treatment. If hair grows back, only use a razor.
• Avoid sun exposure for about a month before treatment, firstly to ensure that the colour of your hair contrasts as much as possible with that of your skin, and secondly to avoid the risk of causing skin stains.

Check out our complete guide to preparing for your laser hair removal session!

What if SSSKIN is your destination for laser hair removal in Lausanne and Geneva?

Embark on the adventure and discover our laser hair removal treatments in Lausanne and Geneva with qualified professionals attentive to your needs.

At the house of At SSSkin , we use hybrid diode laser technology that delivers up to 95% hair reduction. In addition to its stunning results, our Diode machine is equipped with a high-performance cooling system that guarantees you a safe and painless treatment on all skin types: light, dark, and black.

Take the first step towards a better, hair-free life with laser hair removal!