Laser hair removal: what results after your first session?

If you are considering treatment at laser hair removal , you are probably wondering what results to expect after your first session.

Laser hair removal is one of the most effective and long-lasting methods for achieving smooth, hair-free skin. But some people may not yet feel confident about giving it a try, especially if they aren't fully informed about the treatment process and what will happen after the first session. We'll explain everything in this article!

What results after your first laser hair removal session?

As with any treatment, our guests wonder what to expect in the days, weeks, and months following laser hair removal. Here's what you need to know!

Redness and itching: 24 to 48 hours after the session

Within 24 to 48 hours of the first laser hair removal session, slight irritation, redness, and a temporary sensation of discomfort and warmth may be felt in the treated area.

It's recommended to apply organic moisturizers and cold compresses to soothe your skin. Also, avoid hot showers, saunas, and physical activities that make you sweat, as these can further irritate your skin.

If irritation continues or worsens after 48 hours, contact your therapist.

Hair loss: two to four weeks after the session

Two to four weeks after a laser hair removal session, the hairs treated during the growth phase (anagen) begin to fall out. It is not recommended to pluck the hairs from the root with wax or tweezers to avoid damaging the hair follicle. The follicle must be present during treatment to absorb all of the laser's light energy in order to be permanently destroyed.

Slight regrowth: four to six weeks after laser hair removal

The treated area will be smooth and hairless for 4 to 6 weeks after your first session. After this time, you will notice some regrowth of small, fine, and sparse hairs. Again, avoid tweezing or waxing these areas, as they will be lasered during your next session. You can shave them until your next appointment.

Up to 30-50% hair reduction: within 3-4 months after the first session

On average, 30 to 50% of hair should be removed after 3-4 months following laser treatment. While results depend on factors such as your skin type, hair color, the regularity of your sessions, and adherence to pre- and post-treatment instructions, hair growth will be significantly reduced after just a few sessions.

Up to 95% hair reduction: within 8 to 12 months after the first session

Depending on the area being treated, skin type, and laser technology used, a complete laser hair removal treatment takes approximately 8 months to a year to eliminate up to 95% of hair. You will finally be hair-free for good!

Does hair grow back after laser treatment?

Yes, after laser hair removal, you may experience slight hair regrowth. This can be due to hormonal imbalances, such as during pregnancy, menopause, etc. However, the hair that resurfaces will be much finer and lighter and can be removed in a single maintenance session!

You may also experience what's called paradoxical regrowth. This is regrowth that appears primarily on areas of the body considered hormone-sensitive, including the cheeks, upper lip, chin, neck, and midline.

To prevent regrowth following hormonal changes, it is recommended to have one or two maintenance sessions per year.

When does hair start to fall out after laser treatment?

Laser-treated hair does not disappear immediately after your first session. Hair begins to fall out within four to six weeks following the session.

If you still have questions about permanent hair removal: pain, price, contraindications...We invite you to Consult our FAQ for more information.

Post-treatment laser hair removal tips and recommendations

After each laser hair removal session, your therapist may recommend following certain guidelines to optimize results. Here are some tips.

• Exfoliate the skin. To encourage hair loss, gently scrub the treated area with an exfoliating product or a washcloth at least three times a week.
• Shave off any regrowth. Some hair regrowth may be observed after or during your sessions. It is recommended not to wax your hair during this time; instead, trim or shave it.
• Avoid sun exposure. Avoid sun exposure before and after your laser treatment for 2 to 3 weeks to avoid the appearance of hyperpigmentation or weakening the skin.
• Apply sunscreen. Wear sunscreen regularly throughout your laser treatment. This helps preserve your skin color and protects you from UV rays, as laser treatment increases the risk of hyperpigmentation.
• Do not use harsh skin products. Aside from sunscreen or organic moisturizer, it is best not to apply anything to the laser-treated area for 48 hours after the session.

Conclusion

The results, after your first laser hair removal session, are progressive and go through several stages.

• 24 to 48 hours after the session: redness and itching.
• 2 to 4 weeks after the session: the treated hairs begin to fall out.
• 4 to 6 weeks after the session: regrowth.
• 3 to 4 months after the session: 30 to 50% of the hair is eliminated.
• 8 to 12 months after the session: 95% of the hairs are permanently destroyed.

Where to get permanent laser hair removal in Lausanne and Geneva?

If you are convinced that laser hair removal is the ideal solution for you, book your free initial consultation at SSSkin, the Swiss specialist in permanent hair removal.

Our therapists will be delighted to welcome you and provide you with everything you need to know about the treatment and the results to be achieved after your first laser hair removal session.