Laser hair reduction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. This FDA-approved treatment has come a long way in terms of its laser hair removal effectiveness and impact.
But do these treatment result in permanent hair removal? The jury is divided, although the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) claims laser hair removal results are permanent “on most parts of the body.” The procedure may not be as long-lasting on parts that experience hormonal hair growth, like the face, AAD adds.
HOW DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORK?
BBL Hair Reduction works by destroying hair follicles in the skin, thereby arresting or slowing down hair growth. The BBL device uses a specific wavelength of light that is flashed over the skin. The light will be absorbed by a pigment in hair called melanin. Within melanin, the light is converted into heat, which destroys the hair follicle.
Our hair moves through 3 distinct phases:
Anagen: hair is active and growing
Catagen: this is a short phase when the hair stops growing and is cut off from its blood supply
Telogen: hair is resting in the follicle but not actively growing
The process of BBL hair removal only works on hair follicles in their growing phase because it will not target hair in Catagen or Telogen. Therefore, a single
treatment is only effective on 20% of the hair follicles. That’s why the treatments are carried out as a series of sessions.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
Although it is somewhat individualized, we recommend starting with a series of 6 treatments, spaced out by 4-6 weeks. How quickly you see results will depend on:
Your hair color (darker hairs respond better than lighter ones)
The hair follicle density
The type of hair you are treating
Your skin sensitivity
Underlying health conditions, especially hormonal issues
No laser hair removal will work on white or gray hairs, since there is no melanin in those hairs for the laser to target. Those with light skin tones and dark hair color respond best, since the BBL can then “see” the pigment in the hair but not in the skin.
SO HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?
If you are spending money on hair reduction, you want it to last. BBL hair reduction is very effective, safe, and hassle-free. Results are much more long-lasting than traditional hair removal methods, like waxing or shaving. Plus there are no worries about bumps or ingrown hairs if some do return. You can remain hair-free for up to a year or longer after treatments. You may still experience some regrowth over the years, but those hairs are typically finer and lighter.
SCHEDULE YOUR LASER HAIR REMOVAL CONSULTATION AT FOUNDATIONS AT MAITLAND
At Foundations at Maitland, in Maitland FL, we offer a full range of non-surgical treatments to help you reach your aesthetic, wellness, and sexual goals. Our providers are highly trained and experienced. We are led by our double-board certified surgeon, Dr Kristin Jackson, who has personally developed all treatment protocols and is closely involved in the day-to-day operations of our medical spa. With her extensive training in all non-surgical cosmetic treatments as well as over 20 years of surgical experience, Dr Jackson is uniquely qualified to ensure our medical spa provides you with the highest standards of quality care and safety.
If you are looking for laser hair removal doctors near you, we can help! Contact us today for your complimentary consultation!