Why one session is not enough
Laser and IPL devices target the pigment in the hair. The light turns to heat in the follicle and damages its ability to grow new hair. But it only works on hairs in the active growth phase (anagen), and at any moment only some of the hairs in an area are in that phase. Sessions are spaced so that each one catches a new group of follicles as they enter it.
A typical schedule
- Most areas: six to eight sessions.
- Face: every four to six weeks.
- Body: every six to eight weeks, sometimes longer for legs and back, where hair grows more slowly.
- Maintenance: a touch-up once or twice a year for some people, especially in areas driven by hormones such as the chin.
Many people see a noticeable difference after two or three sessions, as hair grows back finer, lighter and more slowly. The accurate term for the end result is permanent hair reduction: most hair stops growing, but some fine hairs may remain or return over time.
What affects your results
- Hair color. It works best on dark hair. White, gray, light blond and red hair have little pigment for the light to target and respond poorly.
- Skin tone. The device and settings are chosen for your skin type. Your consultation may include a test spot.
- Hormones. Conditions such as PCOS can drive new growth, which means more maintenance sessions.
- Consistency. Skipping or stretching out sessions lets the hair fall out of step with the schedule.
Before each session
- Shave the area the day before or the morning of your appointment.
- Do not wax, pluck or thread for about four weeks beforehand. The laser needs the hair root in place.
- Avoid tanning and self-tanner in the weeks before treatment. Your provider will tell you how long.
- Mention any new medications, especially ones that increase sensitivity to light.
After each session
Redness and small bumps around the follicles are normal for a few hours to a day. One to three weeks later the treated hairs shed, which can look like regrowth but is not. Wear sunscreen on treated areas every day.
Talk it through with us
Every plan at Elite Medical Aesthetics starts with a consultation. Read more about Laser Hair Removal, or use the form below and we will call you back.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Whether a treatment is right for you depends on your own health history and an evaluation with a licensed provider.