You likely already know getting rid of unwanted hair is a commitment if you want great results, but do you know how many laser hair removal sessions for permanent hair removal you might need?
Keep reading to find out that answer and more right here!
Can You Tell Me How Treatment Works?
Sure!
Laser hair removal (LHR) works by emitting a concentrated beam of light that targets and destroys hair follicles. The light, which is absorbed by the pigment, converts to heat and damages the follicle, inhibiting future hair growth.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions for Permanent Hair Removal Do I Need?
Everyone reacts differently to the procedure, but on average, patients tend to experience an 80% reduction in hair growth after four to six treatments. Your hair growth cycle, which occurs in three stages, is a key factor in the number of sessions you need.
LHR targets hair follicles during their active growth phase, known as the anagen stage. At this point, hair follicles contain the most pigment, which makes the procedure more effective. The catagen (transitional) and telogen (resting) phases, where hair growth slows or stops, are less responsive to the laser.
Other variables that play a role in the number of sessions you need include skin type, hair color, hair thickness and density, hormonal changes, the area(s) you are treating, and how well you adhere to your customized treatment plan.
How Often Can I Schedule My Appointments?
Now that you know how many laser hair removal sessions for permanent hair removal you may need, let’s take a look at frequency. As a rule, you should be able to undergo LHR every four to eight weeks or more.
Because hair grows at varying rates on different areas of your body, you may be able to treat a fast-growing hair area like the upper lip every four weeks. For slower-growing areas such as the back, the procedure may be spaced out to every 10 to 15 weeks.
Always follow the guidance of your provider for optimal outcomes.
Truth: Are the Results REALLY Permanent?
This largely depends on how well your body responds to treatment. In some cases, the results can be permanent. A more realistic expectation is you get to enjoy hair-free skin long-term with maintenance sessions scheduled once or twice a year.
What Areas of My Body Can I Treat?
Except for eyebrows, laser hair removal can be effectively and safely performed on just about any area, including:
- Back
- Bikini area
- Chest
- Face (including upper lip, chin, and cheeks)
- Feet/toes
- Legs
- Underarms
Why Shouldn’t I Use an At-Home Device to Remove Unwanted Hair?
Simply put, the lasers sold for at-home use simply are not as safe as those used professionally.
One major concern is the potential for skin damage or burns, especially if the device is used on high settings or on sensitive areas of the body. Improper use can lead to blistering, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation.
Unregulated laser technology that has not been approved by the FDA may not be as powerful or precise as those used in clinical settings, leading to incomplete hair removal or inconsistent results. This can be frustrating and may require more sessions than anticipated.
Lastly, at-home devices may not be suitable for all skin types and hair colors. They are often designed with specific parameters that may not be adjustable enough to safely treat darker skin tones or very light hair.
Healthy, Hair-Free Skin Is Possible With Generations Medical Aesthetics!
Call us at 703-439-1104 to book your consultation to find out if LHR is right for you, and work closely with one of our highly qualified medical providers to develop a treatment plan to meet your goals. We are excited to meet you!