Is Laser Hair Removal Really Permanent? (2024)

Is Laser Hair Removal Really Permanent? (1)

Laser hair removal is an increasingly popular method for getting rid of unwanted hair. It’s effective, safe, and can save you time and money in the long run. But is laser hair removal really permanent? In this post, we’ll answer that question and more.

Factors Affecting Hair Growth

To understand whether laser hair removal is permanent, it’s important to understand the factors that affect hair growth. Hair growth happens in cycles, and not all hairs are in the same phase at the same time. The three stages of hair growth are:

  • Anagen – the active growth phase
  • Catagen – the transition phase
  • Telogen – the resting phase

Laser hair removal works best on hairs that are in the anagen phase, which is when the hair is actively growing. During this phase, the hair follicle is most susceptible to damage from the laser. However, not all hairs are in the anagen phase at the same time, which is why multiple treatments are needed.

Other factors that affect hair growth include hormones, age, genetics, and medication. Hormones, in particular, can have a significant impact on hair growth. For example, women may experience increased hair growth during pregnancy or menopause due to changes in hormone levels.

Why are maintenance treatments important?

While laser hair removal is not technically permanent, it can provide long-lasting results. However, some hair may grow back over time due to factors like hormonal changes or genetics. Maintenance treatments can help keep hair growth under control and prolong the results of laser hair removal.

During a maintenance treatment, a lower energy level is used to target any hairs that have regrown since the initial treatment. This helps to keep the hair growth in check and maintain the results of the initial treatment.

How often should maintenance treatments be scheduled?

The frequency of maintenance treatments will depend on the individual and their hair growth patterns. Typically, two to four maintenance treatments per year are recommended to keep hair growth under control. However, some people may require more frequent maintenance treatments depending on factors like hormones or genetics.

How long does laser hair removal last?

The length of time that laser hair removal lasts will vary from person to person. Some people may experience permanent hair reduction after a few sessions, while others may require more treatments to achieve the desired results. Additionally, factors like skin tone, hair color, and hormonal changes can affect the longevity of the results.

While laser hair removal is not technically permanent, it can provide long-lasting results with the proper maintenance treatments. By targeting hairs in the anagen phase and scheduling regular maintenance treatments, you can achieve smooth, hair-free skin for an extended period of time.

Laser hair removal is an effective method for reducing unwanted hair, but it’s not necessarily permanent. Maintenance treatments are important for prolonging the results and keeping hair growth under control. By working with one of our qualified laser professionals and following a proper maintenance schedule, you can enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal for years to come.

Is Laser Hair Removal Really Permanent? (2024)

FAQs

Is Laser Hair Removal Really Permanent? ›

Most people experience hair removal that lasts several months, and it might last for years. But laser hair removal doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal. When hair regrows, it's usually finer and lighter in color. You might need maintenance laser treatments for long-term hair reduction.

Does laser hair removal last forever? ›

How long will the results of laser hair removal last? Most patients remain hair free for months or even years. When some of the hair regrows, it will likely be less noticeable. To keep the area free of hair, a patient may need maintenance laser treatments.

Will hair grow back if I stop laser? ›

Even though the hair may eventually return, if the laser did its job on the targeted hair follicles, it usually will appear lighter or thinner upon any regrowth. This is completely normal, and the appearance of your unwanted hair is a solvable problem that follow-up treatments down the road can easily remedy.

How long does permanent hair laser last? ›

Many people that undergo laser hair removal experience hair-free skin for around 2 years after receiving the recommended number of sessions. However, this timeline differs by patient. Individual results may vary due to factors such as the area being treated, hair thickness and density, and hormone levels.

Is laser hair removal permanent after 10 sessions? ›

Although most people see a significant decrease in hair growth after 6-8 sessions, claiming it to be completely permanent is misleading. After 10 sessions, hair growth is often finer and lighter, but factors like hair colour, skin type, hormonal changes, and the treated area can influence results.

What happens if I stop laser hair removal after 4 sessions? ›

If treatment is stopped before all of the hair follicles have been destroyed, some may continue to grow. It is important to complete the recommended treatment plan to achieve the best results. Sometimes, the patient sees hairs are thicker and darker after the treatment when they have original light and fair hair.

Will I regret laser hair removal? ›

But, as with any treatment that ends with more or less permanent results, not everyone is pleased with their decision. While some feel freedom after banishing all the hair on their bodies for good, others express deep regret — especially given how the conversation around body hair has shifted in recent years.

Why am I hairier after laser hair removal? ›

The appearance of increased hair growth after laser hair removal can be concerning, but it's important to understand that this is a normal part of the treatment process. Hair shedding, hair growth cycles, and misconceptions about hair growth can all contribute to the perception of increased hairiness.

What is the success rate of laser hair removal? ›

By targeting hairs at the right time in their growth cycle and using the right laser treatment to destroy those follicles, we can achieve higher than a 95% success rate among our patients.

Can I shave between laser sessions? ›

Yes, you can shave in between each laser hair removal treatment. During your course of treatment, you can shave any unwanted hair that may regrow. After your first laser hair removal session you will notice that you won't need to shave as much as before.

How painful is laser hair removal? ›

Though there is some pain, it's often less than people imagine. Laser hair removal targets your hair follicles with a very hot laser, but you won't feel this heat or any burning. Instead, you might feel a sensation similar to having an elastic band snapped against your skin.

Is electrolysis better than laser? ›

Electrolysis is considered a more permanent solution than laser hair removal (it stops hair growth completely while laser hair removal slows and reduces hair growth), but it requires more individual sessions (closer to 14), and the sessions can take longer. You might not see full results for nearly 18 months.

Do you shave before laser hair removal? ›

Shave Before Treatment

You should shave within 24 hours of your scheduled laser appointment. Your laser technician cannot treat areas that have hair above the skin. You cannot even receive treatment if there is rough stubble because this may create too much heat for the pigment of your skin.

Why can't you shower after laser hair removal? ›

It's recommended to wait at least 6-8 hours after a laser hair removal session before taking a shower; which should be cold or very mild. This gives the skin time to cool down and for any redness or swelling to subside. At Skin Perfection; London's Top Laser Hair Removal Clinic; we recommend you to avoid hot showers.

How many laser sessions do I need for Brazilian? ›

The fact- “No one fits all” is also true for the Brazilian treatments. The effectiveness of the treatment depends on the thickness, growth and colour of the hair. So, the number of sessions one needs to undergo vary from person to person. Generally, 6-8 sessions are required to get your hair permanently removed.

How many laser sessions until hair falls out? ›

After the course is complete, the treated area will feel smooth with a permanent reduction in hair growth. Typically we recommend a minimum of 6 laser treatments for women and 8 for men. So you can expect to complete your course after 6-9 months.

Is hair gone forever after laser? ›

Hair removal from a destroyed hair follicle is permanent. However, people who undergo hair removal can expect that some hair in the targeted area will grow back. Over time, it is possible to treat the area again to reduce the number of hairs that regrow. In some cases, it may even be possible to eliminate all hair.

Is laser hair removal harmful long term? ›

For most people, laser hair removal is safe. The procedure also isn't linked to any long-term side effects. Still, discussions about the side effects of laser hair removal abound. Although temporary and minor side effects can occur after the procedure, other effects are rare.

Is permanent hair removal possible? ›

Electrolysis can permanently remove unwanted hair. Once your hair is gone, you won't need maintenance treatments. It works on all hair types, including light-colored hairs, which lasers cannot remove. There's no downtime.

Can laser hair removal cause infertility? ›

The laser will not be able to penetrate any further to your organs/ or ovaries. So you can be assured, that laser hair removal will not have an impact on your ability to conceive. If this was the case, no Clinic would be insured to offer laser hair removal for patients on their private areas.

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