Question of the hour: Is laser hair removal permanent? Like, actually permanent?
If you’ve ever considered getting laser hair removal, I’m sure that question has crossed your mind. Is laser hair removal really permanent? Or, is it just a temporary fix? Money is involved with any cosmetic procedure. So, when it comes to permanent solutions, is laser hair removal worth it? Furthermore, how long does laser hair removal last, realistically?
In this article, you will find the answer to those questions Plus all of the insider information you need when deciding if laser hair removal is worth it for you. Let’s jump in!
Laser Hair Removal: Permanent or Temporary?
How permanent is laser hair removal?
To answer that, you must first understand how laser hair removal works. When a patient goes in for laser hair removal treatments, a specialized laser is used to heat the hair follicles, causing a stunt in their growth cycle. This state of dormancy lasts for quite a long time – significantly longer compared to waxing or shaving. Eventually, when the hairs do grow back after being treated with laser hair removal, they’ll grow in lighter, more fine and less in quantity.
It is important to realize that, although laser hair removal is considered to be a “permanent” solution, it really only minimizes the number of unwanted hairs. It does not rid your body of hair completely.
For best results, the American Dermatology Association (ADA) advises a board-certified dermatologist carry out your procedure. As a side note, the ADA considers the following areas appropriate for laser hair removal treatments:
- Face
- Bikini line
- Neck
- Chest
- Shoulders
- Back
How long does Laser Hair Removal last?
Follow up sessions are absolutely necessary, if you’re planning to get the most out of laser hair removal treatments. Each individual patient is unique, therefore it is impossible to say the exact number of follow up sessions required for one area. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, most patients need between four to six laser therapy sessions.
It’s important to realize that these sessions should also be spaced apart. You will notice fewer hairs after each session, with the end goal being little, to no, hairs left. Your laser hair removal doctor will have more information regarding how many sessions you may need to achieve your desired results. Expect each “cycle” of sessions to take about 9 months to complete.
As far as price is concerned, you can plan on each area to cost approximately $200-$100. Keep in mind, this is an estimate and does include the full “cycle” (multiple sessions are included in one full cycle).
Alternatives for Long Term Hair Removal
At this point, there are no fully-permanent hair removal techniques on the market. The closest option for permanent removal would be by laser. However, there are other good options that can give you long-term results! We’ve made a list below of other hair removal options below –
Semi-Permanent / Permanent Hair Removal Options to ask your Dermatologist About:
- Tweezer epilators
- Waxing or sugaring
- Threading
- Proper shaving methods
The Conclusion: Is Laser Hair Removal Worth it?
Let’s face it: laser hair removal is expensive.
Despite that, if you add up how much you spend on razors, bikini wax sessions and after-shave cream, it might be worth the price to get a more permanent hair removal solution. Not only is laser hair removal longer-lasting, but many people swear by the beautiful results it provides.
