Temporary hair removal methods like waxing and shaving can be a hassle, making laser hair removal a popular procedure. After a few sessions, patients can see little to no hair growth in the treated areas. But does the hair stay gone, or does it grow back after a time? This blog discusses the permanency of laser hair removal, what affects results, and what you can do to ensure longer-lasting results.
How Is the Laser Hair Removal Procedure Performed?
Using a device, laser hair removal works by delivering high-intensity light to target melanin in hair follicles. This light converts to heat inside the hair, damaging the follicles and making it more difficult for hair to grow.
This light only works on hair in a specific growth stage, while hair in a different stage of the cycle won’t be affected by the laser treatment. This is why it takes multiple sessions to effectively remove all hair in the treated area and inhibit future hair growth.
Will My Hair Be Gone Permanently After Laser Hair Removal?
Despite the idea that laser hair removal is a completely permanent solution, the reality is more complex.
While it can significantly reduce hair regrowth and remove unwanted hair, laser removal cannot permanently remove hair.
Hair in treatment areas can disappear for a few months, even up to a few years, but if the follicle is not destroyed, it will grow back. The treated hair that does grow back is generally lighter than before, but it will eventually regrow, and additional treatments will be required to remove it completely.
While it is possible to destroy all the hair follicles, it is incredibly difficult to do so. That’s why, while laser hair removal may be more effective than temporary hair removal options, it is not considered permanent.
What Factors Affect Hair Removal Results?
Because laser hair removal uses light to damage and destroy hair follicles, it may be less effective on the following features:
Darker Complexion
Most patients with darker skin may experience more complications with laser hair removal. Because the laser targets melanin, darker skin tones are more likely to burn, as they can absorb the light rather than just the hair absorbing it. It can also result in hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.
Luckily, newer technology has developed to reduce the chances of burning while still focusing on the hair rather than the skin.
Lighter Hair
Many patients with lighter hair also see more complications with laser hair removal. The less melanin a hair has, the less it absorbs the light. This may require more treatment sessions than for those with dark hair.
How to Make Sure Laser Hair Removal Lasts
Post-treatment care is important in maintaining your results. These aftercare tips include:
- Avoid sun exposure on the areas and surrounding skin
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and lotions
- Avoid other temporary hair removal options
It is also recommended to attend occasional maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months after you finish your initial sessions to help prevent regrowth.
Schedule Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment in Peachtree City, GA
If you’re ready to move on from temporary hair removal treatments like waxing and shaving, schedule your laser hair removal consultation with double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Karen at Exclusively Faces Cosmetic Surgery & Medispa. He provides the utmost care and expert treatment plans to patients in Peachtree City, Sharpsburg, Fayetteville, Newnan, and surrounding areas.
To schedule your consultation, call (678) 203-5930 or fill out our online contact form.