Why Do I Regret My Laser Hair Removal? [Reasons & FAQs]

I Regret My Laser Hair Removal: Key Takeaways

---

• You might regret laser hair removal because of unrealistic expectations and upfront costs
• Doing at-home laser hair removal might increase your chances of regret because it is more likely to deliver patchy results
• For the best results, it’s always a good idea to see a professional laser specialist who has experience with your skin tone and hair type

---

The global hair removal products market hit $3.6 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $6.3 billion by 2030, proof that more people than ever are investing in smooth, low-maintenance skin.

Laser hair removal leads the charge in that trend. Imagine it: no shaving, no irritation, just effortlessly smooth skin.

But for some, the results don’t quite live up to the promise.

If you’ve found yourself thinking, “I regret my laser hair removal,” you’re not alone.

By the time you finish this guide, you’ll know:

• Why laser hair removal doesn’t always go as planned

• How to avoid regret the next time around

• Where to find trusted, expert care: Laser by Aleya

Why Do People Say “I Regret My Laser Hair Removal”?

When laser hair removal doesn’t live up to the hype, it’s normal to hear, “I regret my laser hair removal.”

Here’s why that happens and what might be behind it:

1. Unrealistic Expectations

Many clients expect permanent results, when in reality, laser hair removal offers significant hair reduction, not total removal.

Hair might grow back finer, lighter, or patchy, but it often doesn’t disappear forever.

This especially applies to hormonal areas like the chin, face, or bikini line, where regrowth is more common.

Pro tip: If you want hair gone for good, electrolysis is the only FDA-approved way to make it happen.

2. Poor Results Due to Hair or Skin Type

Laser works best on light skin with dark, coarse hair.

If you have red, gray, or blonde hair, the laser might not detect the pigment well, leading to disappointing results or zero change.

Similarly, clients with darker skin tones who are treated with the wrong type of laser (like outdated models) might experience laser burns or hyperpigmentation.

3. Side Effects

When performed incorrectly, laser can cause:

• Burns

• Scarring

• Discoloration (dark spots or light patches)

• Prolonged redness or swelling

This often stems from:

• Poor technician training

• Skipping preparation or aftercare

• Tanning before treatment 

• Having a contraindicated condition like photosensitivity 

4. Hormonal Conditions Causing Regrowth

Clients with PCOS or other hormone-related conditions may see hair come back quickly, even after several laser sessions.

That regrowth isn’t necessarily a failure of the laser; it’s the body producing new, active follicles due to hormone imbalances.

5. Big Price Tag, Little Payoff

Laser hair removal isn’t cheap, especially for larger areas like your legs or face.

By the time you’ve booked six or more sessions, you might be a few hundred (or thousand) dollars deep, depending on the clinics pricing.

And if your results are underwhelming? Cue the regret. No one likes dropping serious cash for barely-there results.

Setting Realistic Expectations: What Laser Hair Removal Actually Does

Laser hair removal is often marketed as a way to “get rid of hair forever,” but here’s the truth: it’s more about long-term hair reduction and not permanent hair removal.

The laser works by targeting the pigment in your hair follicles during their active growth phase.

Over time, this damages the follicles enough to slow or stop future hair growth.

Here’s where it gets interesting: not all hairs are growing at the same time, and some may grow back lighter, finer, or patchier.

So, what can you really expect?

• Up to 80-90% hair reduction in the treated area

• Finer, slower-growing regrowth in some cases

• Maintenance sessions once or twice a year to keep things smooth

• No guarantees of being completely hair-free, especially in hormonally sensitive areas like the face, bikini line, or underarms

Professional vs. At-Home Laser Hair Removal: Which One Leads to More Regret?

At first glance, at-home laser hair removal sounds like a dream: it’s convenient, affordable, and you can do it in the privacy of your own home.

But in reality, many people end up disappointed, especially when expectations are too high or the wrong device is used.

Before you go the DIY route, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Power and Effectiveness Aren’t the Same

Professional laser devices used in clinics are far more powerful than at-home versions. That means:

• Faster results

• Fewer sessions

• Better outcomes on coarse or stubborn hair

At-home lasers, on the other hand, are weaker for safety reasons.

This means you might not get noticeable results, even after months of use.

2. Technique Matters

Electrologists and licensed laser techs are trained to:

• Target areas precisely and avoid missed patches

• Leverage the right laser for your skin and hair type

• Adjust settings for safety and effectiveness

When you’re doing it yourself, it’s easy to make mistakes, and that often leads to patchy results, skin irritation, or feeling like you wasted your time.

3. Higher Risk of Side Effects at Home

Without the right training, it’s easy to:

• Over-treat the skin

• Miss signs of irritation

• Use the wrong settings for your tone or hair density

This leads to one of the biggest at-home regrets: hyperpigmentation, burns, or no results at all.

4. Costs Can Be Deceiving

Sure, at-home devices cost less upfront, but there’s a catch:

• You might end up buying more than one

• You might still need professional treatments later

• You risk spending money and still needing to shave or wax

How To Choose the Right Laser Specialist (and Avoid Saying “I Regret My Laser Hair Removal”)

Laser hair removal can be life-changing.

But a poor experience can leave you with uneven results, sensitive skin, and one painful realization: “I regret my laser hair removal.”

Here’s how to pick the right clinic and avoid the regret:

1. Look for Proper Licensing and Certification

Your laser specialist should be:

• Licensed to perform laser treatments in your state

• Trained on multiple skin tones and hair types

• Using FDA-approved laser equipment

Avoid clinics where technicians can’t answer basic questions about their credentials or the technology being used.

2. Make Sure They Use the Right Type of Laser

Not all lasers are safe or effective for every skin type.

Laser hair removal clinics should offer multiple technologies and match them to your needs.

Alexandrite and Diode lasers are generally best for lighter skin tones, while Nd:YAG lasers are safest for deeper skin tones due to their lower melanin absorption. 

If their “custom treatment” means the same type of laser for everyone, that’s your cue to politely back away.

3. Ask for a Patch Test

A reputable laser specialist will offer a patch test before your first full session.

This small test area helps ensure your skin reacts well and allows the technician to fine-tune the settings for comfort and effectiveness.

It’s a simple but essential step that shows the clinic prioritizes safety and customized care.

4. Check for Real Testimonials

Don’t let those five stars fool you.

• Did people actually get the smooth skin they were promised, or are they still reaching for a razor?
• How many sessions did it take?
• Any burns, weird regrowth, or skin freak-outs?

Look for reviews that show the details, especially from folks with hair and skin like yours.

What To Do If You’re Thinking, “I Regret My Laser Hair Removal”

So, you went all in on laser hair removal… and now you’re not loving the results.

If you’re sitting with that sinking feeling of “I regret my laser hair removal”, take a deep breath.

Here’s how to move forward (and feel better about it.)

1. Get Clear on What You Actually Regret

Before you can fix the problem, it helps to know exactly what you’re unhappy with. Ask yourself:

• Are you disappointed with the results? Maybe your hair is only patchy or growing back faster than expected.

• Was it the cost? Laser can be pricey, and the results don’t always match the investment.

• Did you experience side effects? Burns, discoloration, or increased sensitivity can definitely lead to regret.

• Did it not meet your expectations? If you were expecting total, permanent removal, finding out it’s actually just reduction can be a bit of a letdown.

Identifying the core issue will help guide your next steps, whether that’s more sessions, switching methods, or getting a second opinion.

2. Book a Follow-Up (Even If It’s Awkward)

If you’re not happy with your results, don’t keep it to yourself.

It’s perfectly okay to reach out to your original provider and share your concerns.

A reputable specialist will want to understand what went wrong and help make it right.

If you’re not comfortable going back, that’s okay, too.

You can always consult with a new, trusted provider who can assess your skin, review your laser history, and walk you through your options moving forward.

3. Explore Other Hair Removal Options

If laser’s not your perfect match, don’t sweat it. Hair removal has a whole lineup of options.

Electrolysis is the best choice for permanent results, especially on light or fine hairs that lasers often miss.

It’s also the only method FDA-approved for true permanent hair removal.

Find Reliable Laser Hair Removal Services at Laser by Aleya

At Laser by Aleya, you’ll find expert care with high-tech, skin-safe lasers to get you real results.

Whether you’re brand new to laser or coming in after a not-so-great experience, we customize every treatment to your skin and hair goals.

No cookie cutter settings and awkward surprises. Just honest advice and smooth, confidence-boosting results that actually last.

Why Do I Regret My Laser Hair Removal? FAQs

Is it normal to regret laser hair removal?

Yes, and you’re not alone.

Most regret comes from patchy results, unexpected regrowth, side effects, or feeling like the cost wasn’t worth it.

The good news? Many of these issues can be fixed.

Why didn’t I get the smooth, permanent results I expected?

Laser hair removal offers long-term reduction, but it doesn’t remove hair for good.

Some regrowth is normal, especially in hormonal areas like the face or bikini line, and the hair that comes back is usually finer and slower to grow.

Is getting a Brazilian laser hair removal embarrassing?

Not at all. Getting a Brazilian laser hair removal treatment isn’t embarrassing.

In fact, it’s one of the most requested laser hair removal services, and trained professionals perform it regularly, just like any other area.