Why is the hair on my neck/face growing back worse after several laser hair removal treatments? 6 months p.o. (photos)

Question

I had a series of 6 laser hair removal treatments for my face/neck that ended somewhere around 6 months ago. Last week I had a touch up treatment because I noticed the hair was returning and I was having to shave my face/neck every day again. In the week following the touch up treatment my face/neck look WORSE! I still have to shave every morning but even though I'm shaving and the skin feels smooth I still have VISIBLE stubble. By evening I start to get 5 o'clock shadow (see photos below).

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Keep in mind, it will take a series of treatments and some people need treatments to maintain. I typically have patients do every 4 weeks for the first 3 times and then every 4-6 weeks for 3 times after. See an expert in laser hair removal for best results. Best, Dr. Emer

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting pictures.  The answer is that it could several different issues.  As Dr. Moore said, it could be paradoxical hair growth, but that is pretty rare.  In our experience it is more likely that you could potentially have a hormonal imbalance that is easily checked and corrected or your treatments were ineffective.  If your provider has older technology, a device out of calibration or low power, poor settings or technique, you can get very ineffective treatments.  Before you get lab work for hormones, were you in a doctor's office or a Groupon special establishment?  Often the cheapest option doesn't get you the best treatment.  Find out the name of the device they use and when was it maintained / calibrated last.  If it seems like they did a good job, I would recommend getting your hormones checked.  Best of luck.

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is very possible you suffer from paradoxical hypertrichosis. This is a rare condition in which hair growth is actually stimulated rather than hair follicle destruction. You should consult with a physician regarding treatment with spironolactone to suppress the hormonal trigger for hair growth. Sometimes the selection of lasers can play a role. Some physicians report better treatment results with an NdYag laser in these situations.I hope this was helpful - Dr. Moore.

Why is the hair on my neck/face growing back worse after several laser hair removal treatments? 6 months p.o. (photos)

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Why is the hair on my neck/face growing back worse after several laser hair removal treatments? 6 months p.o. (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.