Washington Dermatology Center > Wondering “how long does laser hair removal last?” Your dermatologist near Urbana, MD explains

Wondering “how long does laser hair removal last?” Your dermatologist near Urbana, MD explains

February 13th, 2018
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Laser hair reduction and removal are actually one and the same treatment. The use of laser technology in hair removal has become increasingly popular, as more and more people want to maximize the number of hours they have in a day by minimizing time spent grooming. Whether called laser hair removal or reduction, the treatments provided by dermatologists are aimed at altering the hair follicles so that they lose their ability to grow new hairs.

How laser hair removal works

Laser hair removal works by affecting the hairs that are actively growing within follicles at the time of treatment, because it is these hairs that absorb laser energy and alter the follicle. In order to achieve optimal results, patients are advised of the number of treatment sessions they will need.

The question “how long does laser hair removal last?” is interesting, since the purpose of this service in our office near Urbana is to permanently reduce follicle’s ability to grow hair. Nonetheless, it is a good question to ask. Most people who undergo laser hair removal will notice a reduction in the growth of new hairs after just one treatment. After the series of treatments has been completed, there is virtually minimal re-growth.

The results of laser hair removal are tied to a few different factors, including the color of hair, the texture of hair, and the size of follicles. These factors may make a follicle more or less responsive to laser treatments. Additionally, it is possible that a follicle will, at some point, recover from the effects of laser treatment, or that a new follicle will develop. Neither of these events will lead to widespread growth of new hair. If anything, a random hair may appear here or there. Dermatologists recommend touch-up treatments every now and then for the prevention of re-growth.

Laser hair removal or reduction?

Laser hair removal is considered a permanent treatment due to the elimination of widespread hair growth. However, because maintenance treatments may be needed by some people, the term laser hair reduction is also commonly used. Furthermore, there are individuals who undergo laser treatments for the purpose of simply reducing the amount of unwanted hair, not for complete and total removal. If you have an area of very thick hair that you would like to thin out, laser hair reduction can help you accomplish this goal.

Laser hair reduction is a treatment we can customize to each patient. If you’re ready to say goodbye to your razor, contact us for a hair removal consultation in Rockville or Frederick.

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