Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Waxing, epilating, shaving—these methods of hair removal are painful, messy, and tedious. Laser hair removal offers lasting, satisfying results without the mess or pain. But is it actually permanent? This blog discusses the laser hair removal process, why it’s considered hair reduction and not permanent hair removal, what patients can expect from their appointments, and more.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?

Laser hair removal offers significant benefits, including the longevity of the treatment. While not 100 percent permanent, it is considered a permanent hair reduction treatment, meaning patients can expect about 80–90 percent reduction in hair growth, but complete hair removal is not permanent nor guaranteed. After a full schedule of sessions, patients enjoy thinner, sparser, barely-there hair in the treatment area permanently.

But to truly explain how long you can expect your laser hair removal to last, we have to discuss how laser hair removal works.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Unlike shaving, which only removes the exposed portion of the hair shaft, and waxing, which pulls out the hair from the root, laser hair removal is a completely different process and science.

Laser hair removal works by using concentrated beams of light that are absorbed by the pigment or coloration in your hair follicles. As the light energy is converted into intense heat, the hair follicle (root) is damaged, which affects its ability to regrow hair in the future.

So rather than treating the hair shaft or pulling the hair from the follicle, laser hair removal is a more permanent solution as it damages the root or follicle. By damaging the follicle, laser hair removal inhibits regrowth, so rather than battling with hair regrowth every growth cycle, as with shaving and waxing, laser hair removal targets your body’s ability to grow hair in the first place.

One drawback with laser hair removal is that because the laser is attracted to the pigment of the hair, patients with naturally dark hair, especially with high contrast between hair and skin (dark hair, lighter skin), often see better results than those with lighter hair. However, many lasers have been adapted to bridge this gap a little better and allow for more variation in skin and hair color.

What Is the Laser Hair Removal Process Like?

Hair grows in cycles, and lasers only work when the hair follicles are in their active growth phase. Thus, the treatments are going to be a little different than professional waxing, for example. With waxing, having your hair grown out slightly is best so the wax can grab onto something. With laser, however, you are asked to shave the treatment area the day before your appointment. This is to avoid burns or discomfort from the heat of the laser, as it is attracted to the pigment in the hair.

Additionally, patients will need to come in for multiple sessions because hair does not all grow at the same rate, so some of your hair follicles will not be in an active growth state all at the same time.

How the Laser Hair Removal Appointment Works

The day before your session, you will shave the treatment area fully. You should also avoid tanning beds or sun exposure before and after your treatment, as your skin may be sensitive.

During your laser session, your technician may lubricate the head of the laser device with some gel for your comfort. You will be given some protective eyewear to limit exposure to the intense light from the laser.

They will then pass the handpiece over the specific treatment area, pulsing the laser light at a steady rate to address the entire area. As the laser pulses, you may feel a slight snapping sensation with some brief heat, but the cooling function of the laser will provide quick relief. Most patients claim that laser hair removal is quite comfortable, with very minor—and quick—discomfort.

Once done, your technician will put a soothing cream or gel over the treatment area. If your treatment area is on the face or other exposed area of the body, they will also apply a mild SPF.

You may have some temporary redness and warm sensation at the treatment site, but this will dissipate quickly.

How Often Do You Need to Have Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a process, as hair grows at varying frequencies, and those who have lighter or thinner hair may need more sessions than those who have thicker, darker hair. Each patient is different, but most moderately sized treatment areas will require between six and eight sessions for ideal results.

After each laser session, you will be instructed not to pluck or shave your hair. After the laser session, you’ll notice your hair will continue to regrow in the cycle, but many of the hair follicles will actually fall out. That’s because the laser did its job, and the follicle is damaged. Some of the hair will regrow as normal: Those are the follicles that were not in the growth stage and will need another pass of the laser.

Each time, you’ll see your hair grow back thinner and sparser, with ideal results reaching 80 percent reduction or more.

Want to Learn More About Laser Hair Removal in Tacoma, WA?

Discover hair removal that is lasting, satisfying, and more cost effective than alternative methods with professional laser hair removal at Aesthetic Surgery Centre & Medical Spa in Tacoma. Call (253) 284-9230 or complete the contact form to schedule an initial consultation with the skilled team of plastic surgeons and aestheticians at our Medical Spa.