Laser hair removal has become one of the most commonly requested services in medspas and beauty salons because it eliminates the need for shaving and/or waxing – which saves a lot of time and effort, especially during the summer months.
Although this form of hair removal was initially classified as being a permanent solution, there are instances where hair follicles are damaged instead of being completely destroyed during the laser treatment process. When this happens, the hair will, unfortunately, regrow after a while. However, any hairs that do reappear will be far softer in texture and a lot lighter in color than before.
How it Works
Laser hair removal works by using concentrated light beams to target the pigment found in individual hairs, and this light travels along the hair shaft and right into the follicle. The light generates heat, which in turn destroys the follicle and this prevents the hair from growing back.
Each hair follows its own growth cycle that comprises of resting, shedding, and growing. Hair that has been removed recently and that is in its resting phase won’t be visible while laser treatment is being performed, meaning that an individual might have to wait until it regrows before having it removed.
In most cases, anywhere between two and six treatments will be required over a period of two to three months to ensure that all hairs have been treated.
How Long it Lasts
When hair follicles are destroyed, they won’t ever grow back. However, if they are only damaged during the treatment process, hairs will eventually regrow.
The length of time it takes for any hair to grow back will depend on each individual’s unique hair growth cycle. Some individuals may find that hair regrows quickly, while others may only see hairs growing back after a few weeks or even months.
How Hair and Skin Color can Affect End Results
Laser hair removal is most effective when performed on individuals who have lighter complexions and darker hair because the pigment contrast makes it easier for the laser light to locate a hair, travel into its follicle and destroy it.
Individuals with darker skin and lighter hair may require additional treatments to ensure that hairs don’t grow back too quickly.
For hair to be permanently removed, the esthetician must target the hairs correctly and ensure that the right type of laser is being used. Lasers that produce longer wavelengths often produce better end results on individuals who have darker skin tones.
Although hair will often regrow after laser treatment has been performed, there will be significantly less of it as times goes on. The only way to know what to expect after having this treatment performed is to speak with an experienced laser technician, who will be able to answer any questions you might have. If you would like to learn more about how you’ll be able to benefit from having laser hair removal performed, get in touch with us today. Our experienced estheticians will be more than happy to assist you.
