Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Dr. Lee Colony  In: Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a popular and effective way to remove unwanted hair. It can be used nearly anywhere you have hair, including the face, arm, underarm, leg, chin, back, chest, bikini line, and other areas. After the treatment process has been completed, you’ll see a drastic reduction in hair growth. If you’re considering laser hair removal, it’s important to have the right expectations for your results. Here’s what to expect for the long term.

Is it really permanent?

Removing unwanted hair with laser hair removal is often advertised as being permanent. This is not entirely true, but it is one of the best ways to keep hair at bay. It will reduce the amount of hair growth and slow the rate of return. Multiple sessions are usually needed to produce the best results. After that, you may need some maintenance sessions.

How laser hair removal works

The laser applicator is applied to a small area and a beam of laser light will flash extremely quickly. Your technician will move the laser wand around to cover the complete area. The light from the laser naturally targets hair that is darker than your skin. However, the laser can be adjusted by your technician to work with your hair color. It works best where there is a larger color differentiation between your skin and the hair color, although your technician can select the right laser treatment for you.

After treatment, the hair will slowly fall out. This process will take several days to a few weeks, but it will fall out naturally. You should not pluck it during this phase.

Why follow-up sessions are needed

Hair follicles grow in different stages. Those that are in the growth stage can be effectively targeted and destroyed. However, some hair follicles are only damaged by the laser, so they will regrow after healing and new hair will be seen. This is why some hair will grow in the treated area.

Once the follicle is destroyed, it will not produce any new hair. Most people will need between six to ten treatments before they see permanent hair removal.

The bottom line

While laser hair removal certainly is not the only way to remove unwanted hair, it does give you some of the best and most long-term results. At the very least, it can drastically reduce the amount of hair present in your treatment area so you can more easily and quickly remove it at home.

Request a Consultation

If you want more information about laser hair removal and how it can benefit you, you can get the answers you need from Michigan Plastic Surgery™. Dr. Lee Colony , M.D., F.A.C.S. is a Board-certified plastic surgeon and has over 20 years of experience helping people look their best. We are located in East Lansing, MI and you can set up a consultation with our laser hair removal experts by contacting the office at 517-333-4960.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon at Michigan Plastic Surgery

Meet Dr. Lee H. Colony, M.D., F.A.C.S., a renowned Board Certified plastic surgeon known for his expertise in aesthetic plastic surgery. As a respected national speaker and educator, his dedication to patient safety and involvement in esteemed medical societies highlight his exceptional skills.