Question:
I would like to get laser hair removal but I have heard differing opinions on whether or not the results are permanent. Does laser hair removal permanently remove hair or just temporarily?
Answer:
Laser hair removal is temporary, however the more it is done, the longer it is between necessary intervals for treatments. In other words, people who continue to get laser hair removal in an area may find that while they used to have to come in every three months are now coming in every six or nine months. There are also certain areas, such as under the arms, where laser hair removal appears to last longer and also where some of the hair follicles themselves begin to die over time. However, it would be unfair for anybody to market laser hair removal as a permanent solution. It is really just a way of removing hair without shaving and hopefully keeping it gone for a period of time that is comfortable for the patient, usually in the area of two to four months.
Posted by Richard Galitz, MD, FACS
