Permanent Hair Removal?

Posted: January 27, 2011

You probably know from personal experience that waxing, shaving, and bleaching aren't permanent. But you may not be sure about whether or not laser hair removal can be a permanent solution. Many people ask me if, with laser hair removal, their hair can be gone for good. The answer isn't as simple as "yes" or "no." So let's clear up the confusion around the permanence of laser hair removal.

Think permanent reduction, not permanent removal.

The key here is that laser hair removal offers a permanent reduction not removal - in the number of hairs. In fact, the FDA does not allow laser companies to claim that their technologies can produce "permanent hair removal" since the reduction of hairs after treatment is not 100% accurate.

The effects are long-lasting.

Depending on the individual's skin type, hair type, and pigmentation, a person may be able to go weeks, months, or even years without having another laser hair removal treatment. Typically, lasers can reduce hair counts by 40%-80% and re-growth is often finer, thinner, and may be lighter in color.

In order for lasers to work effectively, the hair needs to be in a growth phase. But because not all hairs are in the growth phase at the same time, there will be about 15% to 20% of hairs that are not treated. Performing a series of monthly sessions helps ensure that hairs which were dormant during the first session are subjected to treatment.

Skill and experience matter.

Choosing a provider who is well-trained in the use of lasers is essential when considering treatment. If the laser device is not operated correctly, an individual may face a number of dangers including burns and changes in skin color.