Is Laser Hair Removal a Permanent Treatment?

For those who have spent a large percentage of their lives shaving, plucking, or waxing to remove unwanted hair, the idea that there may be a permanent solution can be very appealing. Since first being introduced, laser hair removal has definitely made significant advancements. However, you should also realize that there is a huge difference between a home laser removal kit and having the procedure completed by a profession cosmetic surgeon.

First Let’s Look at How Laser Hair Removal Works

The laser hair removal process involves a special tool that uses both the light and heat created by the laser to target each individual hair. Once the laser contacts the hair follicle, it physically damages it. This damage actually retards future growth of hair. During the procedure only those hair follicles that are in the growth phase can be targeted, any that are in the rest phase will not be affected by the laser. This is the main reason why you may need to undergo a number of treatments to achieve the best possible results.

So Is Laser Hair Removal a Permanent Solution?

This is typically the first question most patients ask when they come into our office. Most people believe laser hair removal to be a permanent one-time solution. However, this is not the case. Although a number of patients may actually see a 100 percent reduction in the area being treated, the average reduction is more likely to be in the 70 to 90 percent range. This means that over the course of time most patients will need to return on an annual basis to eliminate any areas of regrowth.

Worth considering is the fact that laser hair removal is minimally invasive and does not involve the use of dangerous chemicals or the pain of waxing. Once treated, the individual hairs will fall out on their own over time completely pain-free. While the need for annual treatments may not seem like a permanent solution, it should only take a few minutes to treat any areas of regrowth.