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How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last

A Guide On How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last

Written and Reviewed by Dr. Uzma Qureshi
Published on: 12/12/2024

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last

How long does laser hair removal last? You must be wondering this when you consider the hassle of waxing or shaving.

Like the results of any other cosmetic procedure, you may be looking for answers to determine the longevity of laser hair removal results.

Laser hair removal has become one of the most common methods for hair reduction; however, people still have many questions about how long their results will last.

Here’s a breakdown of what you should expect regarding the longevity of laser hair removal and factors that may affect its effectiveness.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Treatment Work?

When you undergo a laser hair removal session, the practitioner uses a hand-held device that delivers focused light energy to the melanin in the hair follicle. This causes heat production and subsequently damages the melanin enough so that it cannot create another hair from that follicle again. Hair grows in cycles, so you will require more than one session so that all hair follicles grow in an active growth cycle.

In What Phase Of Hair Growth Is Laser Hair Removal Effective?

Do you know the phases of your hair growth cycle? Your hair takes time to grow, and it happens in four phases, including:

First Phase: The active growth phase is called Anagen.

Second Phase: A slower growth phase, called Catagen

Third Phase: The resting phase, called Telogen.

Fourth Phase: The fully grown hair sheds in this phase, Exogen.

Laser hair removal is done during the active growth phase, i.e., the anagen phase. The laser beam destroys and vaporises the hair follicles, hindering active growth. However, not all follicles are in the active phase at the same time; this is why your practitioner arranges multiple laser sessions for hair removal.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Treatment Last?

The laser hair removal procedure is not very time-consuming. However, the exact timing of each session and the total treatment duration depend on the size of the area under treatment.

Typically, the laser hair removal treatment lasts between:

  • 15-20 minutes or less for smaller areas like the chin or upper lips
  • 45-60 minutes for larger areas like arms, legs, or back.

Now that you’ve explored the duration let’s see the longevity of the results. First, check out the factors that affect the longevity of laser hair removal results.

What Factors Determine Longevity of Laser Hair Removal Results?

How long does laser hair removal last? When talking about longevity, it is determined by these factors:

  • Treatment Area

Sites with busy hair growth cycles, such as the upper lips, would need topping up after much shorter intervals than slower sites like the legs.

  • Hair Colour & Skin Type

Most laser hair removal works best on people with light skin and dark hair since there is a huge contrast, and the laser may easily identify the melanin colour in the hair’s follicle from the surrounding skin. People whose hair is lighter or the skin darker do not tend to get such long-term results, though newer laser technologies are improving the results for different kinds of skin.

  • Hormonal Fluctuations

The rate at which hair grows may increase during pregnancy or due to hormonal imbalances, as imbalances may stimulate hair follicles.

  • Treatment Consistency

Sticking to the prescribed number of treatments is key to long-term hair reduction. Missing scheduled sessions would impact the overall success of the procedure.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last On Your Face?

Laser Hair Removal Last On Your Face

Face laser hair removal is one of the longest results compared to other areas of the body; however, a lot depends on specific individual factors: skin type, hair growth, and hormonal influences. Most individuals find that the skin remains smooth and hair-free for months after several treatments, usually 6 to 8 sessions. However, conditions exist whereby hormonal changes can influence facial hair development, such as in the upper lip, chin, and jawline areas. In such cases, one may need to take maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months for those areas.

Because the face is so typically influenced by hormones, particularly in women, pregnancy or hormonal imbalances, such as PCOS, may cause hair in this area to grow faster than any other spot on the body.

How Long Does Laser Hair Treatment Last On Arms & Legs?

Arms and legs are the most common body parts that are treated with laser for hair removal. The treatment usually yields longer results compared to the face. Most people observe a reduction in hair after initial sessions, which comprise 6 to 8 treatments. In most individuals, repeat treatments are needed every 12 to 18 months. However, some find they can go for years between treatments without experiencing noticeable regrowth, causing a need for further treatment to smooth the skin.

Since arm and leg hair grows slower than the facial area, it responds much better to laser treatments. This is because it takes more time to set in permanently.

Final Thoughts

How long does laser hair removal treatment last? It is the most common query related to hair removal with laser. Laser hair removal diminishes unwanted hair, but it is certainly not a one-time treatment. Most results last from months to years, depending on several factors, and it may be necessary to come in for maintenance sessions. Consulting a professional for laser hair removal treatment in Bradford and following an appropriate treatment schedule will allow you to maximise the potential for longevity of results. It’s your time to enjoy hair-free skin without the hassle of monthly shaving or waxing.

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