How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Actually Last?

If you're someone who struggles with unwanted hair and have thought about ways to get rid of it, then you've probably heard about laser hair removal. Laser hair removal has been around for a few decades now and has become an increasingly popular option for both men and women. However, many people still have questions and concerns about the process. In this blog, we will be answering some of the most frequently asked questions about laser hair removal. Whether you're someone who is thinking about getting laser hair removal, preparing for your first treatment, or a seasoned laser hair removal patient, we hope that we can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether laser hair removal is right for you.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Laser hair removal is often marketed as a "permanent" hair removal solution, but the truth is that it’s a bit more complicated. While laser hair removal can greatly reduce the amount of hair in a treated area, it usually does not remove all hair permanently.

The reason for this is that hair growth is influenced by a variety of factors, including hormones, genetics, and age. Laser hair removal also targets hair follicles during their active growth phase, but not all follicles are active at the same time. Some follicles may be dormant during a laser hair removal session, and others may become active later on. That being said, laser hair removal can provide long-lasting results. After a series of treatments, most people experience a significant reduction in hair growth, and the remaining hair tends to be lighter, finer, and less noticeable. Touch-up sessions may be required every few months or years to maintain the results.

It's also important to note that individual results may vary, and some people may experience more significant hair reduction than others. The effectiveness of laser hair removal can also depend on factors such as your skin type, hair color, and the skill of the practitioner performing the procedure.

How long does laser hair removal last?

How long the results of laser hair removal last can vary depending on several factors, including the area of the body being treated and the individual's hair growth patterns, but laser hair removal patients typically experience hair-free skin for around 2 years after their initial full series of treatments. Factors such as hormonal changes, medications, and certain health conditions can impact the effectiveness of laser hair removal as well.

How many sessions does laser hair removal take?

A full series of laser hair removal treatments typically consists of 6-8 sessions spaced several weeks apart.

How long should you wait between laser hair removal sessions?

Usually this depends on the area of the body that is being treated and your individual hair growth cycle, but sessions are typically scheduled 4-6 weeks apart, or sometimes even 8 weeks apart. Areas with slower hair growth, such as the legs, may require longer intervals between treatments than areas with faster hair growth, such as the underarms or face. Your esthetician will let you know the best time for you to schedule your next appointment.

What are the side effects of laser hair removal?

Like any hair removal treatment or medical procedure, laser hair removal can cause some potential side effects, although they are typically minor and temporary. The most common side effects of laser hair removal include:

Skin irritation - Mild redness, swelling, and/or itching in the treated area are common after laser hair removal.

Pigment changes - Laser hair removal can cause temporary changes in skin pigmentation, such as darkening or lightening of the skin in the treated area.

Blistering or crusting - In rare cases, laser hair removal can cause blistering or crusting of the skin.

Scarring - While rare, laser hair removal can cause scarring in some individuals. This is more likely to occur in those with darker skin or in areas where the skin is already scarred or damaged.

Eye injury - If laser hair removal is performed on the face or neck, there is a risk of eye injury if proper eye protection is not used.

These side effects can be minimized by choosing a qualified provider who uses appropriate equipment and protocols for laser hair removal. If you experience any unusual or persistent side effects after getting a laser hair removal treatment, be sure to contact your provider.

How painful is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal can cause some discomfort, but most people describe the sensation as tolerable and temporary. The level of discomfort can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's pain tolerance, the area being treated, and the specific type of laser used. During the treatment, the laser emits a beam of light that heats up the hair follicle and destroys it. This heat can cause a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin or a mild sunburn. Some people may also experience a sensation of warmth or tingling in the treated area.

Most modern laser hair removal devices are equipped with built-in cooling mechanisms that help to minimize discomfort during the treatment. This can include blowing cool air over the treated area or using a chilled tip on the laser device. In some cases, topical numbing creams may be applied to the treated area prior to the laser hair removal session to help reduce discomfort. We encourage patients to discuss any concerns about pain or discomfort with your esthetician, as they may be able to adjust the settings on the laser device or use additional pain management techniques to make the experience more comfortable.

Should I shave before laser hair removal?

It is recommended to shave the area being treated 24-48 hours before laser hair removal. This is because the laser energy targets the hair follicle beneath the surface of the skin, and having long hair on the surface can interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment. Additionally, if the hair is too long, it can cause discomfort during the procedure, as the laser may create a burning sensation when it interacts with longer hair. Avoid waxing or plucking the hair in the treatment area for at least 6 weeks prior to the laser hair removal session.

Can I shave in between laser hair removal sessions?

Yes, you can shave in between laser hair removal sessions as needed. Avoid waxing, plucking, or using depilatory creams in the treated area, as this can interfere with the effectiveness of the laser treatment. Shaving is a safe and effective way to remove hair in between sessions, as it does not remove the hair follicle from the root, which is what the laser is supposed to target.

Is there any permanent hair removal?

Yes, there is a method of permanent hair removal: electrolysis. Electrolysis is a technique that uses an electric current to destroy individual hair follicles, preventing future hair growth permanently. Unlike laser hair removal, which targets the pigment in the hair follicles, electrolysis works on all hair types and colors.

How does electrolysis work?

During electrolysis, a fine needle is inserted into each hair follicle and a small electric current is delivered to the root of the hair. This damages the follicle and the process is repeated for each individual hair follicle in the treated area.

Electrolysis is a highly effective method of permanent hair removal, but it can be very time-consuming and expensive. It typically requires multiple sessions, depending on the size of the area being treated and the density of the hair growth. The length of the treatment sessions can also vary depending on the individual's pain tolerance and the sensitivity of the treated area.

Have any additional questions about laser hair removal that you’d like answered? Please let us know!

Check out our other related blogs below to learn more about the benefits of laser hair removal and how to prepare for your treatment:

8 Amazing Laser Hair Removal Benefits

Laser Hair Removal: How to Prepare, What to Expect, and Aftercare