Can you ever stop doing laser hair removal?

Author: Justine Altenwerth MD  |  Last update: Sunday, October 12, 2025

If you stop laser hair removal too early, you'll likely be left with something around the percentage that is there now. Once the particular follicle is dead it won't regrow, but new ones can be triggered by hormonal changes.

Do you have to do laser hair removal forever?

Properly done Laser hair removal is permanent. The FDA differentiates electrolysis from Laser hair removal as permanent hair removal vs permanent hair reduction. Laser is permanent hair reduction because not every hair hit by the laser dies, but every hair follicle that dies, stays dead.

Do people ever regret laser hair removal?

While laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, it doesn't always eliminate it completely, and some may still require occasional touch-ups. Skin reactions can also play a role in feelings of regret, although this is rare when the procedure is done correctly.

Will hair grow back if I stop lasering?

Answer: Hair regrowth after laser hair removal The laser treatment actually destroys the hair beneath the skin. While some hair may still appear in a treated area, it will not grow back in the way it was before being treated because the follicle, or root of the hair, has been permanently destroyed or altered.

How many years will laser hair removal last?

You can expect your laser hair results to last years and in most cases, results are permanent. However keep in mind you may need occasional touch-up treatments to keep the area looking its best, particularly with facial treatment.

Dr. Clevens | How long does laser hair removal last?

What I wish I knew before laser hair removal?

I wish I knew this before laser hair removal
  • Preparation is crucial.
  • It's also important to skip plucking, waxing, or electrolysis.
  • Laser hair removal isn't a one-and-done solution.
  • Another often overlooked aspect is the potential for maintenance treatments.

Is it bad to stop laser hair removal?

If too much time passes between treatments, some follicles might recover and start to produce hair again. The best way to ensure optimal results is by following a consistent treatment schedule recommended by your laser hair removal expert.

Why am I still hairy after laser hair removal?

Hair Growth Cycles – Hair growth occurs in cycles, and not all of the hair in a given area is in the same growth phase at the same time. This means that some hairs may not be affected by the laser during the initial treatment, and may continue to grow as normal.

Is there a permanent hair removal?

Electrolysis can permanently remove unwanted hair. Once your hair is gone, you won't need maintenance treatments. It works on all hair types, including light-colored hairs, which lasers cannot remove.

What are the cons of laser hair removal?

Side effects of the laser hair removal process may include:
  • pain.
  • bruising and swelling.
  • redness and inflammation.
  • blistering.
  • herpes simplex outbreaks and bacterial infections.
  • temporary skin lightening or darkening.
  • darkening/lightening of tattoos.
  • freckle loss or lightening of moles.

Is it bad to laser pubic hair?

The laser targets the hair follicle without impacting the surrounding skin, and it's FDA-approved as safe and effective for all skin tones. Studies show that laser hair removal is extremely effective for the bikini area, only outperformed by treatments on legs, arms, and underarms.

Do you never have to shave again after laser hair removal?

You can shave after laser hair removal, just not immediately. Laser hair removal is permanent but requires a few sessions to fully zap all the hair follicles in the treatment area. While some hairs may regrow between sessions, your skin will be sensitive for a few days afterward, so don't reach for the razor yet.

How many times a year do you need laser hair removal?

These sessions are typically spaced every 4 to 6 weeks, meaning you'll likely need 8 to 12 treatments in the initial year. After completing your initial course of treatments, maintenance sessions are usually needed once or twice a year to maintain smooth, hair-free skin.

How to stop hair growth on body permanently?

You can reduce unwanted hair growth with the application of hair removal creams. However, in case of excessive hair growth, you may need to undergo laser treatments, electrolysis, or prescription creams that best suit your condition. Sometimes, you may also need hormonal treatment for any underlying health issues.

How to reverse laser hair removal?

While reversal is not possible, there is the possibility for hair to still exist. There are various kinds of laser hair treatments. Some may be specific for hair reduction or temporary hair loss, while others are meant for permanent hair loss. Also, different follicles may be in different phases of their cycle.

Can you pull out loose hairs after laser?

Pulling out loose hair after a laser hair removal session is not recommended. It disrupts the hair growth cycle; when hairs are loose it means the hair is in its cycle of removal. If it's removed before it dies on its own, it could stimulate hair to grow again.

How many laser sessions before hair stops growing?

Generally, clients need about two to six laser treatments in order to completely get rid of hair. You can expect to see about a 10% to 25% reduction in hair after your first treatment. As you continue your treatments, more and more hair will fall out, and you'll notice that it continues to grow back more slowly.

Does stubble go away after laser hair removal?

Up to a few weeks after treatment, your skin will develop stubble or blackheads as a part of the shedding process that happens from hairs that were partially grown at the time of the procedure. Exfoliation during this period aids the shedding and diminishes the blackhead or stubble appearance.

Will laser hair removal eventually be permanent?

Although laser hair removal effectively delays hair growth for long periods, it usually doesn't result in permanent hair removal. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well.

When to give up on laser hair removal?

Some people will not need any further laser hair removal treatments after 5 treatments, but others will. This will depend on your hair, how you've been caring for the treatment area, and how well your hair follicle reacts to the laser.

Does hair fall out laser hair removal?

People typically lose 50 to 100 hairs a day. This usually isn't noticeable because new hair is growing in at the same time. Hair loss occurs when new hair doesn't replace the hair that has fallen out.

What happens if you stop getting laser hair removal?

If you stop laser hair removal too early, you'll likely be left with something around the percentage that is there now. Once the particular follicle is dead it won't regrow, but new ones can be triggered by hormonal changes.

How to permanently remove pubic hair?

Electrolysis and laser hair removal can remove pubic hair long-term, however, there is a higher cost and discomfort to consider. Ultimately, how you choose to groom your pubic hair is your decision based on personal preferences, aesthetics, cleanliness, and comfort.

Can laser hair removal cause HPV?

This common virus can be transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be spread through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. While laser hair removal does involve contact with the skin, there is no evidence to suggest that it can transmit HPV.

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