Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Laser hair removal is a dream come true for many people because it means they are forever free from having to shave, wax, or pluck unwanted hair. After a series of treatments, you can have long-lasting, silky-smooth skin. 

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure designed to remove unwanted hair long-term. At Alamo Ranch, we use the Cutera xeo® laser for this innovative treatment. Laser hair removal is an effective option that can save you from the inconvenience of constant shaving or the pain of waxing.

Wherever you have hair, we can help you get rid of it. Common treatment areas include the face, underarms, legs, bikini area, back, and chest. Depending on the size of the area being treated, laser hair removal can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

The Cutera xeo® device emits light energy that targets the pigment (melanin) at the base of the hair follicle. The pigment absorbs the light energy, which heats it up and damages the root of the hair follicle. This hinders its ability to grow hair. The hair in the damaged follicles will fall out in the weeks following treatment.

Laser hair removal is well-tolerated by most patients and is not considered painful. Many people compare the sensation to a rubber band snapping against their skin, or it may feel like a quick sting or tingle.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?

It typically takes several weeks and multiple treatments to see optimal results from laser hair removal. However, you can expect to see less hair growth after each session. 

Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, but the results are not permanent because hair may grow again in the treated area. However, it is still a much longer-lasting method than shaving or waxing. Instead of results that last a few days or weeks, you can enjoy months of hair-free skin.

Patients typically need a series of several laser hair removal sessions for optimal results. After this initial series, most people only need one maintenance treatment yearly to keep unwanted hair away. Any hair that does grow back is usually finer, lighter, and less noticeable.

How Many Laser Hair Removal Treatments Will I Need?

Hair grows in a three-phase cycle: active, transition, and resting. It can only absorb the light energy from laser hair removal when it is in the active growth phase. Since hair does not grow at the same rate, all the hair in the treated area can’t be removed in one session. That’s why multiple laser hair removal sessions are needed to achieve maximum hair reduction.

Most patients need approximately six sessions to achieve optimal results. However, the number of treatments you need will depend on your desired results and your hair’s color and thickness. We’ll discuss how many treatments you’ll need during your consultation.

Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

If you’re sick of short-term results from shaving and waxing, laser hair removal may be the solution. The best candidates for laser hair removal have a light to medium skin tone and dark hair. Since the laser targets pigment in your hair, it may not be effective on red, blond, or gray hair. 

Take The Next Step

If you have further questions about laser hair removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Alamo Ranch Laser Aesthetics. Call us at (210) 999-9588 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to helping you.