Does Laser Hair Removal Remove Hair Permanently?

 For those seeking smooth, hair-free skin, laser hair removal has become an immensely popular alternative to shaving, waxing and other temporary methods. The technology works by targeting the root cause of hair growth – the hair follicle. But does laser hair removal actually remove hair forever? Keep reading to learn whether this treatment can yield permanent hair reduction, particularly when performed by experienced clinics like laser hair removal Cardiff.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal uses highly concentrated beams of light to penetrate the skin and selectively heat up individual hair follicles. The lasers used contain wavelengths of light that are specifically absorbed by the pigment in hair, called melanin. This creates heat damage that impairs the follicle’s ability to regenerate hair long-term.

Typically, a series of treatments are needed to catch all hairs in the active growing stage. As more follicles are disabled with each successive laser session, hair growth in the treated area is progressively reduced.

Is Laser Hair Removal Truly Permanent?

Many patients wonder – does laser hair removal permanently destroy hair follicles and remove hair forever? The answer is...it’s complicated. FDA approved laser hair removal devices are cleared for “permanent hair reduction”, not permanent hair removal. This is because, for most people, laser does not completely eliminate all hair growth.

However, FDA trials showed up to 90% long-term reduction in hair counts after a full series of laser treatments. The remaining 10% of hairs are likely a combination of hairs that evaded the laser and some regrowth over time. So while permanent hair removal is not guaranteed, the vast majority of individuals enjoy permanent significant reduction through laser.

What Factors Affect Permanency?

Several factors impact the longevity and permanency of laser hair removal results, including:

Hair and Skin Color – Lasers target melanin. Therefore lasers are most effective on individuals with light skin and dark coarse hair. Blonde, red or white hair lacks enough pigment to achieve permanent destruction.

Hormones – Stimulation of hair growth from testosterone or other hormonal influences may cause some hair regrowth over time.

Age – Younger patients tend to have more actively growing follicles which are vulnerable to the laser’s effects. As hormone levels decline with age, results may be more permanent.

Genetics – A tendency toward hair regrowth is inherited by some. Genetic predisposition impacts how many hairs remain long-term after laser treatment.

Laser Device – Advanced laser devices such as the CANDELA GentleMax Pro system yield the most successful long-term hair reduction.

Number of Treatments – The FDA clearance studied treatments every 6-8 weeks until remaining hairs were diminished. Less treatments may enable more hair to later regenerate.

Treatment Areas – Certain spots like the face or underarms tend to have more permanent results, while swimsuit areas or arms/legs may need occasional touchups.

Technician Skill – An experienced technician will achieve more optimal permanent results compared to an amateur. Quality of care impacts longevity.

Can 100% Hair Removal Be Achieved?

A few factors mean complete 100% permanent hair removal from laser is uncommon such as:

Missed hairs – Laser only impacts actively growing follicles. Dormant hairs may be skipped then regrow later.

New hair growth – Hormonal changes over time can stimulate new hair follicles to develop in treated areas.

Partial damage – Laser may only damage rather than fully destroy some follicles, allowing for some regrowth.

However, with the ideal candidates and full treatment course, up to 95% or greater hair reduction is achievable. Any remaining hairs are typically fine, sparse and lighter in color, not necessitating any hair removal for years after lasers.

For those desiring full and total hair removal, alternative options like electrolysis may be required for isolated remaining hairs. But laser can eliminate the vast bulk permanently.

Are Touch Up Treatments Needed?

After the initial complete course of 6-8 laser hair removal treatments, most patients enjoy years of smooth skin before any touch ups become necessary. When they do, maintenance sessions are typically quicker, easier and fewer in number than the original series.

Many experience permanent reduction in number of hairs, growth speed, hair texture, and pigmentation. Laser also often permanently eliminates hair in certain spots that are most annoying like the upper lip or bikini line.

Some choose maintenance treatments seasonally, such as before summer to keep bikini and leg hair at bay. Or touch ups may be performed every few years as required or on a personal schedule. Talk with your laser technician about what makes sense for your goals and hair growth patterns.

What Results Can I Expect in Cardiff?

The lasers operated by trained technicians at clinics like laser hair removal Cardiff are designed and proven to achieve up to 90% or higher permanent hair reduction in most patients. For example, one of Cardiff’s top laser hair removal providers, River Aesthetics, cites the following expected results:

Up to 95% hair reduction after 6 treatments

Remaining hairs left fine, soft and sparse if any

Highly unlikely to require any hair removal for years after treatment course

Virtually permanent results for facial hair removal

Reduced hair density and growth rate maintained long-term

Their medical-grade CANDELA GentleMax Pro system used by skilled nurses delivers optimal permanent hair reduction welcomed by so many Cardiff residents.

Is Laser Right for You?

The prospect of permanent hair removal is life-changing for those tired of daily shaving or waxing. If you want silky, stubble-free skin for the long run, laser hair removal can help you achieve it with little effort. Success depends on factors like your hair and skin type, treatment intensity, and practitioner expertise.

Set a consultation with a facility like laser hair removal Cardiff to assess your candidacy and design a customized treatment plan. Be sure to follow all pre and post treatment guidelines. With careful application of advanced laser technology in skilled hands, you can say goodbye to unwanted hair hassles for good.