Is laser hair removal permanent, and how many sessions are needed?
Laser hair removal does not promise permanent hairlessness; it aims to reduce the number and thickness of hairs. How many sessions are needed and how much reduction there will be varies from person to person.
Author: Uzm. Dr. Oya Oylum Argun, dermatologist
Laser hair removal does not promise permanent hairlessness; it aims to reduce the number and thickness of hairs. How many sessions are needed and how much reduction there will be varies from person to person. It is not possible to say this without an examination.
How does the laser affect hair? The light given by the device is absorbed by the pigment in the hair root and turns into heat. The heat reaches the structure that produces the hair. This is also what is commonly called ice laser, because the device cools the skin with cold air.
Why is more than one session needed in laser hair removal? Hairs are not all in the same phase at the same time. Some are in the growth phase and some are resting. The laser acts only on hair in the growth phase. This is why not all hairs are reached in one session, and sessions are spaced according to the area.
Why does hair grow back between sessions? A hair in the resting phase stays in place, falls out when its time is up, and a new hair comes up beneath it. Hairs that have entered a new phase are treated at the next session.
What decides the result in laser hair removal? Because the target is pigment, dark and thick hair responds better. The response is limited in light-coloured, white and fine hair. Skin colour also affects the energy setting. On tanned skin, a session may be postponed.
Why does the doctor examine before laser hair removal? Behind some hair growth there is a hormonal cause. In hair growth that increases in a short time or shows a male-pattern distribution, this is assessed first. Tests are requested if needed.
Can laser hair removal be done in summer and during pregnancy? It can be done in summer, but a session may be postponed on tanned skin. It is not done during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Who does laser hair removal in Antalya? At the practice in Muratpaşa, the skin type assessment and the energy setting are done by dermatologist Uzm. Dr. Oya Oylum Argun. The device is Elsa Smart, a hybrid alexandrite laser.
This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice. The right approach for you is decided at the consultation.
Last updated: 8 November 2026
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