Laser hair removal is one of the most effective ways to get rid of body and facial hair, but are the results really permanent? Laser hair removal can significantly reduce hair growth for the long-term. However, individual results vary depending on your hair type, natural hair growth cycle, and laser hair removal treatment plan.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal uses concentrated light to target the pigment in your hair follicles. The heat from the laser damages the hair follicles, which helps prevent the follicle from producing new hair as quickly. Since hair grows in cycles, multiple laser hair removal treatments are usually needed to target follicles during the active growth phase.
Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?
Laser hair removal offers permanent hair reduction, which means it will decrease hair growth over the long-term versus complete hair removal. Permanent hair removal would mean you never have hair regrowth again. This is almost impossible to achieve because some hair follicles may be resistant to treatment, and others could produce hair again in the future. Studies have shown that with repeated laser hair removal treatments, individuals saw a reduction in hair growth by up to 90%. Any hair that returns after treatment is usually finer, lighter, and less dense than it was before laser hair removal.
Why Does Laser Hair Removal Take Multiple Sessions?
Laser hair removal is most effective when treated hairs are in the active growth phase of their cycle. Because not every hair is growing at the same time, most clients need 6 to 8 sessions for the best results. Treatment is usually spaced out 4 to 8 weeks apart, depending on the treatment area, and how quickly your hair grows. Here’s what a laser hair removal treatment plan usually consists of and typical results.
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Sessions 1–3: You may notice slower hair regrowth as treated hairs become finer and softer.
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Sessions 4–6: Hair regrowth becomes less noticeable. Fewer hairs are growing back, and those that do come back, there’s more space between them.
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Sessions 7–8: In the last two sessions, most clients achieve their desired level of hair reduction.
Do You Need Laser Hair Removal Maintenance Sessions?
Occasional laser hair removal maintenance sessions help preserve your results and keep your skin smooth. Since individual hair follicles respond differently to treatment, some regrowth can happen months or years later.
What Affects Laser Hair Removal Results?
Several different factors influence how long laser hair removal results last.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes can stimulate new hair growth, even after laser treatment. Examples of hormone changes that can affect hair to regrow include:
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Pregnancy
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Perimenopause
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Menopause
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Postpartum
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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
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Certain hormonal medications
Hair Color
Laser hair removal works best on dark, coarse hair because the laser can easily detect the pigment in the hair and use it to target the follicle that produces the hair. Light brown and medium-colored hair can still respond well to treatment, but additional treatment sessions may be needed.
Laser Hair Treatment Area
Some areas of the body respond better to laser hair removal than others because of how thick or dark the hair is. These areas include:
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Underarms
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Legs
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Bikini area
Laser Hair Removal Schedule
Sticking to your treatment schedule is really important because laser hair removal works best when hair follicles are in their active growth phase, so missing treatments can slow progress and extend your treatment time.
Professional Laser Hair Removal in the DMV Area
During your consultation, our skincare expert will put together a personalized laser hair treatment plan based on your goals, skin type, and hair color. At NM Aesthetics, we use advanced laser technology to safely and effectively reduce unwanted hair so you have long-lasting hair reduction. Call us to schedule a laser hair removal consultation by filling out our online form or calling us at (571) 310-3223. We serve clients in Northern Virginia and the DMV area, and are conveniently located in Ballston Exchange.
FAQs
How long does redness last after laser hair removal?
It's normal to temporarily experience mild redness or slight swelling immediately after laser hair removal. This usually fades shortly after treatment, but it could last up to 48 hours in some cases.
Is laser hair removal safe?
Laser hair removal is a safe and effective treatment when performed by an experienced professional.
Can you get laser hair removal while pregnant?
Laser hair removal is not recommended during pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect hair growth and treatment results.
Is laser hair removal painful?
You may feel mild discomfort from the quick snapping or warming sensation as the laser targets each hair follicle.
How many laser hair removal treatments are needed for a Brazilian?
Most individuals need about 6 to 8 laser hair removal sessions for a Brazilian treatment area to achieve their desired results.