Why is laser hair removal permanent?

Definitive laser hair removal is so successful because it allows us to permanently eliminate body and facial hair. In everyday conversation and in the media, for example, the terms “permanent hair removal” and “laser hair removal” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same technique. Epilium & Skin explains the mechanism that makes laser hair removal permanent, and gives you a few tips for optimal results.

What makes laser hair removal permanent?

Laser hair removal is an effective, long-lasting alternative to traditional hair removal methods such as waxing, epilators and depilatory creams. Its key advantage is that laser-treated hair doesn’t grow back, so you can keep your skin smooth over the long term, while saying goodbye to cumbersome hair removal routines.

Many patients wonder how such a result is possible. What distinguishes laser hair removal from other techniques?

The answer is simple: the laser damages the hair matrix cells responsible for hair regrowth. In the absence of this matrix, which forms the base of the hair follicle, the hair can no longer grow back.

Of course, the process is safe, thanks to a mechanism known as selective photothermolysis: the laser specifically targets the melanin present in the hair, enabling it to reach and destroy the hair follicle without damaging the surrounding skin.

In some cases, under the effect of hormonal fluctuations, hair follicles may reconstitute and create new hairs a few months or years after treatment. That said, it’s usually fine, sparse hair that can be removed quickly.

How do you get rid of body hair for good?

Laser hair removal is a revolutionary technique that regularly attracts new patients who are very satisfied with the results. However, for optimum results, there are certain constraints and precautions to be taken.

First of all, for laser hair removal to be definitive, it must be performed on hair in the growth phase, also known as the anagen phase. In fact, this phase of the hair cycle corresponds to increased activity of hair matrix cells, enabling more efficient destruction. As all hairs are not always at the same stage of their cycle, even in the same area of the body, this requires several laser sessions, generally between 4 and 12, to eliminate up to 90% of hairs.

At the same time, patients must follow the recommendations of the laser physician to optimize the result:

• Be sure to respect the indicated time between 2 sessions, as shortening it may limit the laser’s effectiveness.
• Refrain from plucking hair with wax, epilator or tweezers throughout the protocol, as this would interfere with the treatment process.

On the other hand, the use of razors or depilatory creams is permitted, as they do not interfere with thepermanent hair removal process.

What areas can be treated with laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is an adaptable technique that can treat all skin tones, and remove hair from both men and women.

For women, the most frequent requests are forpermanent hair removal from the bikini line, underarms, legs and half-legs. Laser hair removal for women also removes facial hair, particularly from the upper lip and the brow area.

Laser hair removal from downy areas of the face (cheekbones, sideburns, chins and temples) should be considered with great care. In fact, laser hair treatment can lead to paradoxical regrowth.

As for men, they generally choose laser for permanent hair removal from the torso, neck and nape, or back and shoulders. Intimate areas, ears, beard and nose are other frequent requests. Since men’s hair is thicker and more resistant than women’s, they generally need to schedule more sessions. Laser hair removal for men also presents a lower risk of paradoxical regrowth, for reasons related to hormonal impregnation.

How does laser hair removal work at Centre Epilium & Skin?

During your first consultation at Centre Epilium & Skin, the doctor will study your phototype and hairiness. At the end of the interview, a treatment plan and an estimate will be drawn up. The specialist will also tell you how to prepare for the session, in particular by shaving the area to be treated the day before and, depending on your pain tolerance, applying an anaesthetic cream beforehand.

On the day of your first session at our aesthetic medicine center in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, the laserist will provide you with a pair of protective goggles before sweeping the area to be treated with a handpiece that will send beams directly onto the hair bulb to destroy it at the root. Depending on the area(s) concerned, the session can vary from 5 minutes to 1 hour.