Gap in between laser hair removal sessions?

Question

Hi, I want to have laser hair removal and the clinic I like schedules sessions once every 3 months. I notice a lot of others are more often, likely every 4-6 weeks. What's best? I like this place but want to make sure I'm not wasting my time as the overall treatment will take so much longer if I go every 3 months. Thanks

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to laser hair removal. Depending on the area you are getting treated, it is typically every 6 weeks (below the collarbone) and every 4 weeks (about the collarbone). The timing is based on the growth cycle of our hair. Going every three months will not benefit desired results. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps!

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Typically in our office we see patients neck and up every 4-6 weeks, and body every 6-8 weeks. This is because of the growth cycles that happen. 3 months seems too long to wait un between treatments.

James D. Namnoum, MD, FACS · Answer

Taking a break between treatments should be no problem. Successful laser hair removal is a result of treating the hair while it's in its growth phase. Not all of your hairs will be at this stage at the time of your treatment. That’s why several treatments are needed to achieve the best possible results. Your treatments should be spread out based on the time it takes for the hair to change phases. For example, facial hair treatments may occur every 4 weeks whereas treatments on the legs may take place every 8 weeks.

Fadi Nukta, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! Depending on the area that is being treated with laser hair removal, treatments can be done anywhere between 4-weeks to 6-weeks, or 8-weeks to 12-weeks apart. Every part of the body grows hair at different stages and that’s why some areas are treated 4-weeks apart and some 8-weeks apart, and waiting too long between treatments will give you less effective results.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  LHR only works on hair follicles that are actively growing in the anagen phase.  There has to be a hair in the follicle for LHR to work.  If you pluck or wax, you've pulled the hair from the follicle and the laser will pass right over it allowing it to produce another hair.  Every person has a different hair growth cycle.  Generally, we see under arm and above every 4 weeks.  Below the under arms is every 6-8 weeks, depending on how fast their hair grows back.  If they wait 3 months between visits on everyone, they will have a hard time getting good results.  You should find a facility that is medically supervised and has modern equipment & training.  Best of luck.

Gap in between laser hair removal sessions?

Answers (5)

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