How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?

Guests love using laser hair removal as a long-term solution to unwanted body hair. They enjoy smooth skin without shaving daily or waxing every four to six weeks. But what does “long-term” really mean? How long does laser hair removal last?

Keep reading to discover how long it takes to see results from laser hair removal and whether or not laser treatment permanently removes hair.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair treatment targets hair growth with beams of laser light. When the laser hits your hair follicles, the light energy converts to heat energy, which is absorbed by the melanin in your hair. The laser damages the hair follicle, preventing future growth in that area.

Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Laser hair removal is considered a “long-term” hair removal method rather than a permanent solution. Results and longevity depend on the client, their hair color and thickness, and the area treated. Many laser hair treatment guests see permanent hair loss in their targeted area, while others may see results lasting several months or years.

If hair in the treated area grows back, it becomes lighter, thinner, and less noticeable. Most guests report a drastic reduction in hair growth, even if their results weren’t 100% permanent.

How Long Until You See Results From Laser Hair Removal?

The average laser hair removal treatment takes six to eight sessions, with slow-growing areas (like the back) requiring more time between sessions. Guests typically lose 10% to 25% of the targeted hair per session and can experience 75% to 90% hair reduction by the end of their treatment. At European Wax Center, most guests start noticing significant hair reduction after three sessions¹'²'³ with results continuing to improve after each visit.

Because laser hair removal focuses on melanin, guests with dark hair and fair skin may see results faster. New technology at European Wax Center offers customizable and effective treatment for guests of all complexions and skin types.

Does Laser Hair Removal Last Longer Than Other Treatments?

Laser hair removal keeps hair away much longer than shaving or waxing. However, is it the longest-lasting way to remove unwanted hair? Let’s compare:

- Shaving removes only the top of each hair, so stubble can return in just a day or two.

- Waxing pulls each hair out at the root, but the follicle stays intact, so hair growth resumes in a few weeks.

- Electrolysis can last longer than laser hair removal because it targets individual hair follicles, but it can be more painful and take longer to complete (up to 30 sessions).

Laser hair removal is a happy medium for guests looking for long-term hair removal without too much of a time commitment. While results from electrolysis may last longer than laser treatment, they take longer to achieve.

What Makes Laser Hair Removal Last Longer?

Hair Color

Guests with darker hair often see that their laser hair removal results last longer than those with lighter hair.

Quality of Treatment

Guests can prolong their results by visiting a high-quality provider with experienced technicians—like European Wax Center. We offer faster treatment times with the GentleMax Pro Plus® Laser.

Properly Timed Laser Sessions

If sessions are too close together, hair doesn’t have enough time to grow back and the laser can’t target the follicles as effectively. On the other hand, waiting too long between sessions takes the hair out of the growth phase and into the transition phase, where laser treatment isn’t as effective. Our experts recommend four to six weeks between sessions to allow a hair growth cycle to begin.

Shaving & Exfoliating Between Sessions

Shaving and exfoliating between laser treatment sessions can increase follicle activity, making laser hair removal more effective and longer lasting.

Regular Maintenance

Maintenance laser sessions (after your initial treatment) can also make your results last longer. Depending on the success of the initial treatment, dermatologists and technicians recommend scheduling a maintenance appointment once or twice a year to touch up your results.

What Makes Hair Grow Back After Laser Hair Removal?

Sometimes, results are out of your (and your technician's) control. Guests with light hair, including blonde, grey, red, and white hair, may see hair growth return more quickly. These guests may be better candidates for waxing, as laser will not give them significant hair reduction. Our experts can help you determine the best course of treatment for your unique hair type during a free laser hair removal consultation.

Hormonal imbalances can also prompt unwanted hair growth to return, especially on the chin or upper lip. Certain steroids, immunosuppressants, and birth control pills may also increase hair growth and slow treatment results. Hormonal shifts brought on by changes such as pregnancy or menopause can be a catalyst for hair regrowth.

Achieve Long-Lasting Results at EWC

The experts at European Wax Center have the answers to all your treatment questions. Book a free, no-commitment appointment today to learn how long laser hair removal lasts. Find out about EWC’s laser hair removal packages, the cost, and the best treatment options for your unique hair type. Take a break from endless shaving and make the first (smooth) step toward long-term hair removal.

References

1) Comparing 18- versus 12-mm spot size in hair removal using a Gentlelase 755-nm alexandrite laser. Nouri K, Chen H, Saghari S, Ricotti CA Jr. Dermatol Surg. 2004 Apr; 30 (4 Pt 1): 494-7.

2) Comparison of long-pulsed alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers, individually and in combination, for leg hair reduction: an assessor-blinded, randomized trial with 18 months of follow-up. Davoudi SM, Behnia F, Gorouhi F, Keshavarz S, Nassiri Kashani M, Rashighi Firoozabadi M, Firooz A. Arch Dermatol. 2008 Oct; 144(10):1323-7.

3) Clinical comparison of four hair removal lasers and light sources. Amin SP, Goldberg DJ. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2006 Jun;8(2):65-8.