Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

All About Laser Hair Removal: How Long Does it Take and is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Ideally in the summer you will be bouncing from event to event. But if that’s the case, where’s the time for shaving or waxing? You’re not alone in that worry – and that’s why laser hair removal exists.

But what is laser hair removal ( link to LHR page), and, more importantly, is laser hair removal permanent? Read on to learn more about this procedure and how long results last.

All about laser hair removal

By now most of us understand how shaving and waxing temporarily get rid of our unwanted hair, but how does a laser do that?

According to the Mayo Clinic, “During laser hair removal, a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages the tube-shaped sacs within the skin (hair follicles) that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth.” 

This “damage,” however, doesn’t happen in one session. Three to six sessions is typically ideal for full hair removal, but the amount of sessions will depend on the area you are treating and your hair and skin type. 

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Ahh, the question we’ve all been asking. We’re all wondering if it’s worth it to drop our razors and cancel our waxing appointments for laser hair removal.

While laser hair removal is not technically permanent, there’s a reason people continue to choose laser hair removal over shaving and waxing. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, “Most patients remain hair free for months or even years. When some of the hair regrows, it will likely be less noticeable. To keep the area free of hair, a patient may need maintenance laser treatments.”

So, while not permanent, when the hair does grow back (typically in years), it will likely be less thick, so it will be much less noticeable and will be easy to keep up with maintenance sessions. It may not be forever, but people are finding years of smooth, hair-free skin is worth it.

The laser hair removal process

Two of the big reasons some people haven’t gotten in on this laser hair removal trend yet (beyond not being sure if laser hair removal is permanent) are fear of potential pain and fear it will be a long, arduous process.

If you are worried about either of the above, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons shares the following information about one of the most popular cosmetic treatments today:

  • If you are worried about pain, you may be able to request a topical anesthetic (most people compare the feeling of laser hair removal to the snap of a rubber band) 
  • At MOST a session will last an hour, but it can be a much shorter appointment depending on what area you are treating
  • Expect the first session to be the most uncomfortable
  • Prepare to return every four to six weeks until you achieve desired results.

As you can see, it may not be a one-and-done procedure, but a lot of improvements have been made to make it much less uncomfortable and much quicker.

Laser hair removal may not be for everyone

The technology for laser hair removal has certainly improved over the years, but there are still some limitations that may make it less effective for some than for others. 

It’s long been known that laser hair removal ( link to LHR page) is most successful for people who have a high contrast between their skin and hair. Think people with light skin and dark hair. People with lighter hair colors and darker skin tones tend to not have as strong results with laser hair removal. However, as mentioned, the technology is advancing and laser hair removal is becoming a sound option for more people (contact us about our laser hair removal machine that’s great for people with light hair).

Laser hair removal in The Woodlands, Texas

If you are in The Woodlands, Texas area and are ready to book a laser hair removal (link to webpage on laser hair) session or you want to learn more tips for pre and post treatment, check out our guide to laser hair removal at Practice Happiness ( to webpage) or call our offices at 281-402-3268