Laser hair removal. 3 sessions and no change! Is this normal?

Question

I just had my third session of laser hair removal to my armpits, after just the first session i saw big change however now that i just finished two additional ones im not seeing any change not even a tiny bit of reduction in hair. Is that normal?

Georges Kaado, MD · Answer

Hello, I find it normal that most clients in their 3rd session don't see a change. Its the stages of hair growth that they are seeing. Everyone is different and sometimes hormonal reasons may be a factor in the hair growth and sessions. I would always recommend at least 6 treatments with Laser Hair removal and some need more. The color of your hair also has a big factor in the treatment outcome.

Best of luck to you.

Best of luck to you.

Mohamad H. Bazzi, MD · Answer

Thanks for the Question!  It is normal for people to see a noticeable reduction in hair growth after the first session.  Laser hair removal is a process that typically takes 6 to 8 sessions.  It is normal to not notice much of a change in the last two sessions.  My recommendation would be to stick with the schedule your provider gave you, which is typically to treat every 4-6 weeks.  Keeping up on your treatments is key to success!  Best of luck to you!

Lawrence Scott Ennis, MD, FACS · Answer

I would not expect to see a drastic change until at least 6-8 treatments properly spaced apart to reach each growth cycle. The key to successful laser hair removal is patience and to follow through with treatment plan from practitioner. Good luck!

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question, but there are so many more variables involved that it is impossible to answer.  Depending on the LHR device used, it could take between 5 to 20 sessions to get a full hair reduction.  If you paid top dollar at a doctor's office with very good equipment, you probably just need a few more sessions.  If you went to a "med spa" or salon, you may need 20 more.  It depends on your ethnic background, device, settings and technique.  Best of luck.

Gary Nackman, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not unusual to have a dramatic result after the first treatment, and then more modest results. I would discuss this with your practitioner. What is the time interval between treatments? If they are not spaced out enough, what you describe could happen too.

Carmen A. Traywick, MD, FAAD · Answer

I typically recommend 6-8 treatments of laser hair removal. The laser will only work on dark hair. No reds, blondes, or greys. 
Make sure to see a board certified dermatologist or Plastic surgeon.

Laser hair removal. 3 sessions and no change! Is this normal?

Answers (6)