
How Long Do Laser Hair Removal Results Last?
Say “Goodbye” to shaving with laser hair removal! LightRx has seen a growing demand for permanent hair removal, but let’s examine the process to see if it’s right for you.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal works differently from waxing. Instead of ripping the hair from the follicle, laser hair removal results in an inactive hair follicle.
Hair has three growth phases, but the laser only affects the hair follicle in the anagen, or active growth phase.
This is because during the active phase, your melanin is at its highest, and melanin attracts the energy from the laser.
The Process
Laser energy is aimed at the designated treatment area, which may include the legs, face, arms, underarms, or other body parts.
It penetrates the skin and converts into heat until the hair follicle reaches a specific temperature that destroys it, preventing further hair growth.
Laser hair removal results in no change to the surrounding skin; in some cases, it is often improved. No nicks, stubble, razor bumps, or ingrown hairs!
Average Results and Timelines by Body Area
How long does laser hair removal last? Most individuals need 6 to 8 sessions for significant hair reduction. This depends on the targeted body part, but it is a good rule of thumb.
Laser hair removal results:
After the first session, you will experience a 10% to 25% reduction. Then, after 2-3 sessions, your hair growth slows, and regrowth becomes finer and lighter. By the third treatment, hair reduction should be about 50%.
Permanent hair reduction of 80 to 90% happens within 6 to 12 months after your last session.
Laser hair removal by body part:
Full Leg: Because legs have a slower hair growth cycle, they may need more sessions. Laser hair removal results depend on hitting the active stage. Typically, 4 to 8 sessions are required, spaced 10-12 weeks apart.
Face and neck: Hormones in these areas cause faster hair growth, requiring more frequent treatment. Typically, 6 to 10 sessions are needed, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
Bikini area: Another hormone-influenced area, this area often requires more sessions, like the face and neck. Typically, 6 to 8 treatments are needed, 8 to 10 for Brazilian, spaced 4-6 and 8-10 weeks apart, respectively.
Underarms: This area responds very well to treatment. Usually, 4 to 6 treatments are needed, spaced 8-10 weeks apart.
Back and chest: The number of sessions depends on the density of your hair in these areas. Typically, 6 to 8 treatments are needed, spaced 8-10 weeks apart.
Important Note: Every person is different, so the number of sessions depends on each individual’s characteristics.
Hair color, thickness, and skin type all influence the number of treatments. Therefore, an individual consultation is important for the most accurate assessment.
Factors that Affect Longevity
Laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction, but certain factors can influence how long the effects last. Here are the most important:
- Skin tone and hair color: All people are candidates, but the ideal person has darker hair and lighter skin because of the amount of melanin in the hair follicle.
- Hair growth cycle: Multiple sessions may be needed to hit the active growth stage when laser hair removal works optimally.
- Hormones: Factors that affect hormonal fluctuations, like pregnancy, menopause, etc., can impact hair growth, possibly requiring touch-up sessions.
- Treatment sessions: You should complete the recommended number of sessions to get the best results.
- Treatment area: Lasting results can vary depending on the treatment area and regrowth patterns.
- Laser technology: The type of technology used can affect the longevity of your results.
When Touch-Up Sessions are Needed
Results are usually long-lasting, but as stated above, different factors may influence the need for occasional touch-up sessions, usually one to two a year, to maintain results.
Remember, following post-treatment care and practicing proper skincare can enhance and prolong your results.
Is it Truly Permanent?
Laser hair removal at LightRx is an effective and permanent method for eliminating body hair. Most clients experience long-term smoothness, with minimal risk of the treated hair returning.
Learn more about LightRx’s state-of-the-art laser hair removal. Schedule a free consultation today!