How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
Laser Hair Removal is now the most popular aesthetic treatment in the UK and, with no downtime, affordable treatment packages and a dramatic decrease in unwanted hair, it’s easy to see why. But how long does laser hair removal last? While the treatment significantly slows hair growth, its permanence varies based on hair type, treatment area and the number of sessions completed. At RP Aesthetics, we use the Stellar M22™ for unrivalled results and create treatment plans that maximise long-term hair reduction while tailoring the process to your needs.
A Closer Look At Hair Structure & Growth Cycle
Every strand of hair on your body has two main parts: the hair shaft and the root. The shaft is the part you see that sticks out from your skin. The root is hidden beneath the surface, extending into the deeper layers of your skin. Surrounding the root is the hair follicle that links to a sebaceous (oil) gland.
When we ask the question, ‘How long does laser hair removal last?’, we must first understand its growth cycle. At the base of the follicle, the hair root expands into a rounded hair bulb, where new hair cells are constantly being produced. Inside this bulb is the hair papilla, which supplies nutrients to the root through tiny blood vessels. As new hair cells form, they harden and clump together, gradually pushing older cells upward and creating a visible strand of hair. At the end of the anagen (growth) phase, hair goes through a natural shedding process. First, the hair root detaches from the papilla, cutting off its nutrient supply. This marks the beginning of the catagen phase, a short transitional stage that lasts about two to four weeks.
Once the hair is fully separated from the papilla, it enters the telogen phase, also known as the resting phase. During this time, the hair remains in place but no longer grows, as its blood supply has been completely cut off. Over the course of several months, the hair is slowly pushed out of the skin until it eventually falls out, making room for new hair to take its place.
Stellar M22™ IPL Hair Removal
At RP Aesthetics, we use the state-of-the-art Stellar M22™ for hair removal. Unlike lasers, that use a single wavelength of light, this device uses intense pulsed light (IPL), which uses multiple wavelengths, allowing it to treat larger areas more efficiently. The Stellar M22™ also features advanced cooling technology and customisable settings, making it suitable for different skin types and hair colours.
How long does laser hair removal last using the Stellar M22™? Its broad-spectrum light targets and disables hair follicles at the root. The device emits pulses of light that are absorbed by melanin in your hair. This energy is then converted into heat, which travels down the hair shaft to the follicle. The heat damages the follicle, disrupting its ability to regrow hair while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. This results in long-term hair removal, regardless of area, however, the number of sessions needed will vary depending on the area you wish to treat.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last On Facial Areas?
On average, hair on your head grows about 1 cm per month, while facial hair grows at a slower rate. The upper lip, chin and cheeks typically require treatments spaced around 4-6 weeks apart. Because hair grows in cycles, multiple treatments are required to target follicles in the active anagen phase.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last On Your Legs?
Whilst facial hair grows more slowly than the hair on your head, body hair grows at an even slower pace due to reduced anagen phases. Fewer sessions are therefore needed and treatments are spaced around 6-8 weeks apart.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last Under Your Arms?
Underarm hair grows in a relatively fast cycle compared to other body areas, meaning it responds well to IPL treatment. Approximately 6-8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart are needed to stop hair growth.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last On Your Bikini Line?
Hair in the bikini area tends to be coarser, but it also grows at a slower rate than facial or underarm hair. Treatments are usually scheduled 6-8 weeks apart, with 8-11 sessions typically needed to see significant hair reduction.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last After Your Course Of Treatments Has Ended?
While most clients see a significant reduction in hair growth after completing their treatment course, occasional maintenance sessions every 6-12 months may be recommended to keep your skin smooth and hair-free for the long term.
Get In Touch
To achieve silky-smooth skin in time for summer, book a consultation with Richard Peppiatt. Call 0191 281 8775, visit our clinic or complete our online contact form to schedule an appointment.