Laser hair removal: is it forever?

Laser hair removal is one of the most effective and safe hair removal methods. The rapid growth in its popularity over the last decade clearly indicates the numerous advantages of the method. But how long does the result last? Our clients often ask if laser hair removal removes hair permanently. In today’s article, we will discuss the principle of the technology, reveal facts, dispel myths, and explain whether laser hair removal permanently removes hair.

Principle of laser hair removal – permanent or not

To understand if laser hair removal permanently removes hair, let’s consider how the technology works. It’s also important to understand why hair stops growing after laser exposure.
During the procedure, the pigment melanin in the follicles absorbs the laser light, which converts into thermal energy. This energy destroys the hair bulb, so new hairs do not grow from it anymore. In this sense, hair removal is permanent because, unlike traditional methods, laser hair removal destroys the follicles from which hairs grow. This is why laser hair removal is so effective compared to other methods of combating unwanted body hair.

However, to the question of whether laser hair removal permanently eliminates hair, we must answer “no”. The human body has the ability to regenerate, so over time, new follicles will start to form, and new hairs will begin to grow. Despite this, the effect of laser hair removal lasts much longer than with other methods. More about the effectiveness of the procedure and the duration of results will be discussed further.

Here it is also worth mentioning that hair has a life cycle consisting of three phases:

• active growth – anagen;
• transitional period – catagen;
• rest – telogen.

During the anagen phase, cells divide intensively, creating new hairs. This is followed by catagen – a short transitional stage when the hairs stop growing and form a bulb. In the last phase (telogen), the hairs detach from the skin and may fall out.
How is this related to whether laser hair removal is permanent or not? During the procedure, hairs are in different stages of the cycle, and the laser light affects only those that are in the growth phase. Therefore, the answer to whether laser hair removal permanently removes hair after one session is always negative.

Does laser hair removal permanently remove hair: real effectiveness

After considering the principle of laser hair removal, it is worth paying attention to its results and long-term effects. Does laser hair removal permanently eliminate hair? No, but this technology still provides impressive results – it can significantly reduce the amount of hair, in some cases by more than 90%. The effect of laser hair removal can last for several years, and sometimes even up to a decade.
It is important to note that laser exposure permanently changes the hair structure, making them thinner and less noticeable. This confirms the thesis that the effect of a laser hair removal course can last a lifetime, although over time it gradually weakens.

To maintain smooth and hair-free skin, it is recommended to undergo additional procedures from time to time (about once every six months). Thus, laser hair removal on the face offers a truly long-term solution for everyone striving for smooth skin.

Permanent hair removal: how many procedures are needed for maximum effect?

When asking “can laser hair removal permanently eliminate hair”, some people mean a single procedure. As we mentioned earlier, a whole course is necessary for optimal results. The number of necessary procedures depends on:

• hair color;
• hair follicle thickness;
• skin area;
• hormonal background;
• age;
• medications the patient is taking.

During the first procedure, laser hair removal permanently removes only the part of the hair that is in the active growth stage. To affect the remaining hairs, a break of several weeks between procedures is needed.
On average, 6-8 procedures are required to destroy existing follicles and achieve maximum effect. It is also worth remembering that no laser or other method permanently removes 100% of the hair, as hairs that were inactive during the course will constantly grow. In addition, vellus and gray hairs are not removed due to the absence of melanin in them. Read more in our article about contraindications to laser hair removal.

Factors affecting laser hair removal efficiency

Since we have already clarified whether laser hair removal can permanently remove hair, let’s look at what can contribute to the longest-lasting effect. As with the number of necessary procedures, the effectiveness of laser hair removal depends on many factors:

• Skin phototype, as well as hair color and thickness. Lasers are most effective at removing dark hair on light skin because the light beam is better absorbed by melanin – the pigment that gives hair its color;
• Hair growth stage. Laser hair removal is most effective in the active growth stage because the hair contains more melanin during this period;
• Qualification of the specialist performing the procedure. An experienced specialist will be able to correctly adjust the laser parameters to achieve the best results and minimize the risk of side effects;
• Regularity of procedures. Several laser hair removal sessions are usually required at intervals of several weeks for optimal results.

Thus, the effectiveness of laser hair removal depends on a combination of various factors, and it can vary for each person.

Permanent hair removal with a laser completely without pain – how is it possible?

Technology is constantly improving – this applies not only to how effective laser hair removal is but also to the sensations during the procedure. The innovative Moveo technology, used in the LaserVille laser hair removal salon network, provides completely painless laser treatment, making the procedure accessible and comfortable for all skin types.

The Moveo technology is based on a special method of delivering laser energy. The laser beam is evenly distributed, allowing the skin to be treated with smooth movements. Unlike traditional methods where the laser can cause pain due to skin heating, the Moveo technology provides a gradual increase in temperature. This allows the skin to adapt, making the procedure completely painless.

Additional comfort is provided by the integrated cooling system with a sapphire tip, which cools the skin immediately before and after the laser exposure. This not only minimizes the sensation of heat but also reduces the risk of burns. Thanks to the Moveo technology, you can not only remove hair permanently (with occasional maintenance sessions) but also do it painlessly.

Why is the Motus AX laser with the Moveo handpiece the most effective and safe?

When asking if laser hair removal permanently removes hair, it’s important to remember that this procedure was previously inaccessible to those who faced limitations with other laser systems. Unlike traditional lasers, the Motus AX and Moveo technology expand the possibilities of laser hair removal. For example, other lasers may be ineffective or even dangerous for people with dark skin phototypes and tanned clients. However, the Motus AX with Moveo technology allows the procedure to be performed without risk to the skin, even on the most sensitive areas of the body.

The ability of the laser to effectively remove light and red hair, which was previously considered a challenge for the method as a whole, is particularly impressive. Thanks to the Moveo technology, which evenly distributes laser energy, sufficient impact on hair follicles is ensured, regardless of hair color. Another significant advantage is the possibility of performing hair removal on sensitive areas of the body. For example, scrotum hair removal, which is not done due to the pain associated with diode lasers, becomes painless and safe thanks to the Moveo technology.

The impact of post-procedure skincare on the effectiveness of laser yair removal

Skincare after laser hair removal plays an important role in achieving maximum results and long-term skin smoothness. At LaserVille salons, special attention is given to post-procedure care recommendations to minimize potential side effects and increase the duration of the results from a series of sessions.

An important rule after the procedure is to avoid direct sunlight and use high SPF sunscreen. This is because the skin becomes more sensitive after laser hair removal, and exposure to UV rays can cause pigmentation or irritation.

The question arises: does hair grow back after laser hair removal? As mentioned earlier, laser hair removal affects hair follicles, destroying them and slowing the growth of new hair. However, if post-procedure care is neglected, the results may be less stable, and new hair may appear more quickly.

To answer the question of whether laser hair removal can permanently remove hair, it’s important to emphasize that proper post-procedure care significantly extends the duration of the effect. With the right approach, the effect of a course of procedures can last for several years, after which it will be sufficient to do additional procedures only once every 6-12 months. At LaserVille salons, specialists provide detailed care instructions, including recommendations for moisturizing the skin and using gentle cosmetic products. This helps maintain skin health and prolongs the effect of laser hair removal.

Permanent hair removal: conclusion

In today’s article, we discussed in detail whether laser hair removal permanently removes hair, the features of the technology, real effectiveness, influencing factors, and the number of necessary procedures. Unfortunately, the claim that laser hair removal permanently removes hair is an exaggeration because the body can regenerate even after the complete destruction of follicles. Nevertheless, this procedure is indeed the most effective and long-lasting hair removal method on the market.
We work with the Alexandrite laser Motus AX. Thanks to a special cooling system with a sapphire tip, it works painlessly, quickly, and allows for effective hair removal. Many of our clients already enjoy smooth skin – we invite you to join them!