How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?

Effectiveness

On average, three treatments of the same area are needed to achieve the desired results. Depending on the person and condition of the hair, more treatments may be necessary. However, most people rarely need more than six treatments unless hormonal imbalances or other factors prove to be an issue. No laser hair removal machine is able to provide permanent hair removal. Most lasers are only able to result in significant hair reduction. This means that some percentage of the hair will often grow back. In patients with white or blond hair, complete regrowth is likely within about a year. In patients with dark hair and light skin, hair will be significantly reduced, but some hairs that were in the dormant phase may become active following treatment. This will result in partial hair regrowth in between the monthly sessions. Generally, after the completion of a standard treatment, hair will be kept at bay for up to 2 years. Annual maintenance sessions may be necessary to deter full regrowth.

Tips and Warnings

Laser hair removal increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, making it more prone to sunburn and sun damage. Thus, it is best to undergo treatments during the colder winter months and avoid sun exposure at all costs. Moreover, exposing laser treated skin to sunlight can result in significant discoloration and sunspots that may be permanent. Also, be aware that laser treatments can be somewhat painful especially in more sensitive areas such as the underarms or bikini area. Some people find that it helps to rub numbing cream on the area before treatment to dull the pain.