Is LASER hair removal permanent?

LASER is an acronym for “Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation.” LASER hair removal uses a concentrated beam of light, absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicles. The heat from the LASER damages these follicles, which inhibits or delays future hair growth. This may make you think that LASER causes permanent hair removal on the face or any other body area.

Does LASER cause permanent hair removal on the face?

LASER hair removal may give variable results from person to person, although most people experience a ‘reduction’ in hair growth after each treatment.

Depending on the area being treated, the number of sessions needed can vary, with maintenance treatments needed for best results.

While LASER hair reduction can significantly reduce hair growth, it is not a permanent solution for facial hair removal.

LASER hair removal depends on many factors

The effectiveness of LASER hair removal (or correctly ‘reduction’) depends on factors like the hair’s color and thickness, the skin’s color, and the individual’s hormonal balance.

LASER hair removal is most effective on dark hair and lighter skin tones.

Since LASER targets the melanin pigment in the hair follicles, light-colored hair, such as blonde, red, or gray hair, may simply be less responsive as less melanin is present for the LASER energy to target. These lighter colored hair could better be removed by waxing instead.

In addition, individuals with darker skin tones or who tan easily may have a harder time getting results from laser hair removal.

Moreover, hormonal changes or imbalances can affect hair growth, which means that even after a successful LASER hair removal treatment, some hair regrowth may occur over time.

LASER hair removal expectations

What to do/not do before LASER hair removal

• It is a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist before undergoing LASER hair removal since some situations could require delaying or avoidance of the procedure:¹
  • Skin lesions (melanoma, moles, cold sores, active infections), tattoos, or permanent make-up in the area of treatment.
  • Medications: Recent use of Isotretinoin, Doxycycline, or antidepressants within the last year.
  • Autoimmune diseases like lupus, scleroderma, and vitiligo.
  • Pregnancy, or nursing.
• DO NOT pluck, wax, use a depilatory, or undergo electrolysis in the areas to be treated for at least 6 weeks before the procedure. Shaving is okay and recommended. Please come in cleanly shaven in the area to be treated.
• DO NOT tan or use self-tanner in areas to be treated 4 weeks before the procedure.
• DO NOT use any irritant chemicals, soaps, or lotions on the area for the week before the procedure.

Procedure

The laser hair removal procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned and trimmed to the appropriate length before the procedure. You get protective eyewear to wear during the procedure.
2. Application of Gel: A cooling gel may be applied to the treatment area to help protect the skin and enhance the effectiveness of the laser.
3. LASER treatment: The technician or physician uses a handheld LASER device to target the hair follicles in the treatment area. It emits a beam of light absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles, damaging them and inhibiting future hair growth. During the procedure, you may feel a series of small pinpricks or a mild stinging sensation.
4. Post-treatment: After the treatment, the technician or physician cleans the area and may apply a soothing cream or lotion to help reduce redness or irritation.

Post-procedure care

Expectations

• Some redness and swelling are normally expected after the procedure. This should be resolved in a few days to a week. However, some people may have redness for up to a month or longer due to overly sensitive skin. Consult your dermatologist if it lasts longer than a few days.
• You may see a fine crust/rug-burned appearance during the next week. Hairs will begin to shed for several weeks (DO NOT pick at them).
• Small blisters may occur. Let your doctor know if this happens.

TO DO

• Apply cool compresses/ice for 15 minutes/hour for comfort.
• Gently cleaning the area twice daily with mild soap or aloe gel.
• Avoiding irritants (glycolic acid, retinoids, exfoliating/peeling agents, etc.) until all redness/swelling resolves.
• You may use moisturizers if they do not sting when applied.
• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with zinc oxide) for at least six weeks.

NOT TO DO

• Avoid shaving until comfortable. Begin with light shaving.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for the day as sweating may sting.
• Make-up may be used if the skin is not broken or irritated.

Adverse effects of LASER hair removal

While the procedure is generally safe and effective, there are some potential adverse effects that patients should be aware of. Some of these adverse effects include skin irritation, burns, changes in skin pigmentation, scarring, eye injury, hair regrowth, and infection.

In summary, LASER hair removal may be an effective (although not necessarily permanent) option for reducing facial hair growth. You can discuss your expectations and potential outcomes with a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to determine if it is the right treatment.

References

1. https://www.americanboardoflasersurgery.org/documents/Laser_Hair_Removal.pdf