Is Laser Hair Removal Actually Permanent? Experts Weigh In (2 of 3)
Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?
The concept of permanent hair removal can be a bit misleading. Many options will claim that the laser hair removal will be permanent, but the truth of this takes much more understanding. While laser treatments can drastically reduce the amount and subsequent thickness of the hair, most experts will make the distinction that results are better described as “long-term reduction.” Most patients can expect a hair-free experience for several months or even years, but it is always possible that regrowth can reoccur.
Why is this the case? All follicles are inactive during treatments. Additionally, factors like hormonal changes, genetics, and age can lead dormant follicles to finally produce new hair. Still, in comparison to other hair removal methods, laser hair removal delivers the longest-lasting results by far.
Factors That Can Influence Results
Everyone’s bodies are different, so not everyone responds to laser hair removal the same exact way. Several factors can determine how effective a laser hair removal treatment will turn out:
- Hair color and skin tone: Lasers are at their best on individuals with lighter skin and darker hair because the contrast makes it easier for the laser method to target pigment. Advances in current technology have made for the expansion of methods that can work for darker skin tones too.
- Hormonal balance: Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or fluctuations during pregnancy can play a major role in potential regrowth.
- Treatment area: Coarser hair (such as around the underarms or the bikini area) usually respond much faster to laser hair removal than fine facial hair.
- Consistency: Skipping sessions can be a major deterrent in effectiveness, since timing is tied to the growth cycle of hair.
