Is laser hair removal really effective and permanent?

Retour aux actualités
Is laser hair removal really effective and permanent?

Is laser hair removal really effective and permanent?

While hair removal methods are as numerous as they are varied, laser hair removal stands out as a very attractive long-term option.
But how effective is it, and how permanent is it?
At Epilium, we’re committed to providing you with transparent, accurate information on this technique.
Here’s everything you need to know about laser hair removal’s effectiveness, benefits and limitations, to help you make an informed decision about your hair removal routine.
Details to follow!

Laser hair removal: Effective?

Laser hair removal is widely recognized for its effectiveness in permanently reducing hair growth.
How it works is based on the ability of the concentrated beam of light (the laser) to selectively target hair follicles, while preserving the surrounding tissue.
Unlike other temporary methods, such as shaving or waxing, laser hair removal acts directly at the source, progressively weakening hair follicles until their ability to regrow is inhibited. Several sessions are required to achieve optimal results, not least because of the hair growth cycle.
On average, after 6 to 8 sessions spaced a few weeks apart, you can generally see a significant reduction in your hair growth, with up to 80% reduction in unwanted hair. Please note: these figures may vary according to your skin type, hair color and density, and the laser technology used! At Epilium, we rely above all on state-of-the-art equipment and a personalized approach to guarantee optimal results for our patients!
Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with our specialists to discuss your laser hair removal project and benefit from personalized advice.

What factors influence the effectiveness of laser hair removal?

Here’s a list of the main elements to take into account to fully understand the effectiveness of laser hair removal:

  1. Hair color: The laser works by targeting the melanin present in hair follicles.
    Darker hairs containing more melanin are therefore more easily targeted and effectively treated by laser hair removal, whereas blond, gray or red hairs contain less melanin and can be more difficult to remove completely;
  2. Skin type: Skin color can also influence the effectiveness of laser hair removal.
    Lighter skins present a higher contrast with hair, enabling the laser to target hair follicles more precisely without damaging the surrounding skin.
    On the other hand, laser hair removal on darker skins may require specific settings to avoid undesirable side effects such as burns or pigmentary changes;
  3. Hair density: Areas with a high hair density may require more sessions to effectively remove all the hair follicles;
  4. Hormones: Finally, it’s worth noting that hormonal fluctuations can have a strong impact on hair growth, which in turn can influence the effectiveness of laser hair removal.
    For example, hormonal changes associated with pregnancy or menopause can lead to hair regrowth, which may require additional laser hair removal sessions to maintain lasting results.

Depending on your skin type, hair color and density, as well as your medical history and hair removal goals, a laser hair removal specialist will be able to customize your treatment for the best possible results!

Laser hair removal: how long do results last?

When it comes to the durability of laser hair removal results, it’s important to understand that the aim of this method is to achieve a permanent reduction in hair growth. In practice, laser hair removal targets active hair follicles during each session.
However, some follicles may remain inactive during the initial treatment and reactivate later, leading to hair regrowth.
This is known as paradoxical regrowth.
This is why several sessions are needed to effectively target all hair follicles in different growth phases.
The durability of results also depends on each patient’s individual response to treatment.
Some patients may experience a permanent reduction in hair growth after a limited number of sessions, while others will need occasional maintenance sessions to maintain optimal results.
Hormonal fluctuations are no exception.
These can influence hair regrowth after a complete laser hair removal treatment.
Finally, the choice of a qualified professional and the use of the right equipment also play a part in the durability of the results of your laser hair removal sessions.
At Epilium, we place great emphasis on personalized follow-up to guarantee long-lasting results for our patients, while offering them optimum safety and comfort throughout the process!

5 tips to optimize the results of your laser hair removal sessions

Here are 5 simple but effective tips to optimize the results of your laser hair removal sessions and maintain smooth, hair-free skin over the long term:

  1. Follow a regular schedule of laser hair removal sessions: For optimal results, it’s essential to follow a regular schedule of laser hair removal sessions, including those recommended by your healthcare professional or laser hair removal clinic.
    Sessions spaced a few weeks apart are generally necessary to effectively target all your hair follicles in different growth phases;
  2. Avoid sun exposure before and after sessions: Sun exposure can significantly increase the risk of complications and therefore compromise laser hair removal results.
    Avoid direct sun exposure for at least two weeks before and after each laser hair removal session, and be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to the treated areas to protect the skin;
  3. Avoid plucking or waxing between sessions: During the laser hair removal process, try to avoid plucking or waxing the treated areas, which can disrupt the treatment process and degrade results;
  4. Use soothing and moisturizing products: After each laser hair removal session, remember to use soothing and moisturizing products to calm the skin and reduce any irritation.
    Be especially careful to choose products containing soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile or olive oil to help repair and moisturize the skin;
  5. Schedule regular maintenance sessions: Finally, don’t forget to schedule regular maintenance sessions to maintain your laser hair removal results over the long term!
    You can discuss this with our teams to determine an appropriate schedule of maintenance sessions based on your individual needs.

Article redigé par Epilium

Le centre médicalisé Epilium & Skin regroupe une équipe de professionnels qualifiés, disponibles et à votre écoute. Découvrez leurs actualités