Getting rid of unwanted face or body hair can take up a lot more of your time than you would like. Whether you wax, shave, or use other methods, hair removal is a tedious activity that most of us would rather do without. Laser hair removal gives you smooth, hair-free skin and lets you forget about that unwelcome hair for as long as you want.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Each hair on your face or body grows from a follicle within your skin. The hair starts as a root and grows outward. Laser hair removal works by targeting those hair roots, especially the color-producing pigment called melanin. This melanin absorbs the laser energy, heating it until it damages the follicle around it. The damaged follicle will shed the treated hair and may not grow a new one for years.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions you will need for laser hair removal depends on several factors, including:
- The color of your hair (and the amount of melanin it contains)
- The part of the face or body being treated
- Your hair texture and thickness
- Your body’s natural pattern of hair growth
The average number of sessions needed for hair removal is four to six. However, some people may need more. Laser hair removal cannot remove all your hair in one session because, at any given time, only a fraction of your follicles are actively growing hairs.
Most people will see a new cycle of hair growth within four to eight weeks, making this a good schedule to repeat your treatment. We will review what you can expect during your consultation since each person’s needs will vary.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
Laser hair removal usually produces a lasting reduction in hair growth. However, most people notice the occasional stray hair start to regrow after months to years. We recommend annual maintenance sessions to address any follicles that may have become active again, although this schedule may vary. Certain hormonal conditions, such as PCOS, may hormonally stimulate hair growth despite laser hair removal, making it more difficult to achieve permanent hair reduction in some areas.
Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
While laser hair removal is safe for most people, some individuals will see better results than others. You will see maximum results with this treatment if you have darker hair and lighter skin tones. In general,
If your hair is pale blond, red, or gray, you may not see the results you hope for from laser hair removal. Red and blond hair contains a different form of melanin that does not absorb laser energy as effectively, and gray or while hair has lost its melanin. Your dermatologist will assess your skin and hair to determine whether you will enjoy the results you want.
Take the Next Step
If you have further questions about laser hair removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Krauss Dermatology. Call us at (781) 247-5593 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to taking care of you.