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!

There are many misconceptions surrounding laser hair removal, or LHR, such as that it’s painful or people with dark skin cannot have treatment. These are false! Something else that can be confusing is the longevity of the results.

Does permanent laser hair removal in Ashburn really last forever? Here’s what you should know to bust the myths surrounding the duration of LHR results.

What Is the Bottom Line on LHR Results?

Permanent laser hair removal in Ashburn is possible if hair follicles are destroyed. If follicles are damaged and not destroyed, hair growth can occur. However, any new growth you experience should be lighter and less coarse.

This is also not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Some patients require two to six sessions to achieve permanent hair reduction, while others require more. Certain health conditions and hormonal changes caused by pregnancy or birth control can encourage hair growth which may mean more future sessions.

Technological advances have made treatment possible for anyone, but those with light skin and dark hair tend to have the best and quickest outcomes.

One thing is definite – LHR does yield long-lasting results!

Preparation for LHR is An Important Step for Successful Effects

Not only do you need to choose a reputable provider through diligent research, but you need to follow their guidance on how to prepare for treatment. They provide you with specific instructions.

One tip to remember is to stop the use of tweezers and wax to remove hair in the weeks leading up to treatment. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications/supplements, especially those that cause photosensitivity.

Two to three days before your procedure, discontinue using products that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinol. As far as the sun, always use sunscreen (even on cloudy days) and avoid exposure to UV rays, both natural and artificial. Self-tanners are off-limits too.

Shave the area you wish to treat 24 hours before treatment.

What Advice Is There for the Day of Permanent Laser Hair Removal In Ashburn?

Arrive a few minutes early, and be sure the area you wish to treat is free of deodorants, perfumes, lotions, and oils. These can interfere with the effectiveness of the laser.

Wear comfortable loose clothing. It is possible to experience skin irritation, and the last thing you want is tight clothes rubbing against your skin.

Patients have compared laser hair removal to a mild snapping sensation. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever 30 minutes before your appointment, and ask your provider about a topical anesthetic to maximize your comfort.

What Should I Know About Aftercare?

While preparing is essential, aftercare may be even more important. Again, your provider will give you specifics, but keep in mind that we strongly recommend continuing to take good care of your skin.

Side effects such as redness and swelling are normal. Aloe vera and ick packs can help alleviate discomfort.

Continue to avoid sun exposure for at least two days, and do not use hot showers, saunas, or harsh skincare products for 24 to 48 hours. Limit your physical activity for 24 hours to prevent excessive sweating. All of these can further irritate your skin and impede your results.

Two to three weeks post-laser session, you may see tiny bumps on treated areas. This is a natural part of the hair shedding. Don’t panic! Gentle exfoliation two to three days after treatment with a soft washcloth or gentle loofah can speed up the shedding process.

While you do need to refrain from plucking or waxing treated areas, shaving is acceptable.

Experience the Best Laser Hair Removal at Nearby Generations Medical Aesthetics!

Our location in Reston is conveniently located near Ashburn, and scheduling an appointment is easy! Contact us at 703-439-1104 today, and let’s get started on your personalized treatment plan for beautifully smooth, hair-free skin. We look forward to meeting you!

Tired of waxing, shaving, or using topical products that smell horrible? If you want smooth skin without any of the unwanted hair, you may have considered laser hair removal, or LHR. Wondering if hair grows back afterward? Here’s what you need to know about permanent laser hair removal in Leesburg, VA.

Does Hair Grow Back After Laser Hair Removal?

One of the most important things to know is that treatment is a process. It takes several months and typically two to six sessions to achieve optimal results. However, after a complete treatment, most patients enjoy hair-free skin for many years to come.

Laser hair removal works by destroying hair follicles, which means hair isn’t able to grow anymore. But it’s possible that some of the follicles aren’t damaged enough to not grow hair in the future.

If an area of your body has noticeable hair growth years after treatment, a few follow-up sessions are all you need to get back to smooth, hair-free skin.

How Can I Prevent Hair from Growing Back?

It’s impossible to know for sure that all of the hair follicles in the treatment area won’t recover from the damage caused by the laser. Other factors, such as certain medications and fluctuating hormone levels can also cause hair growth.

The key to getting the best results from permanent laser hair removal in Leesburg, VA is to receive the right number of treatments. Follow-up sessions can be scheduled for preventative maintenance and to zap and pesky hair that returns.

For Permanent Laser Hair Removal in Leesburg, VA, Visit Nearby Generations Medical Aesthetics

Whether you want to remove hair on your legs, under your arms, or on your face, laser hair removal is a safe, effective option. Call today at 703-439-1104 to schedule a consultation, and be sure to ask about our current specials to save on treatment!