For anyone sick of traditional hair-removal methods such as shaving, waxing, and plucking, laser hair removal can sound like a miracle. Unlike the aforementioned methods, it actually reduces the amount of hair you’re capable of growing, meaning your skin stays smooth and stubble-free for way longer. But just how does laser hair removal work? Is it permanent? And does laser hair removal work for everyone? We put together a guide to help de-mystify the process.

Important things to know about laser hair removal

Before you submit your skin to a laser light show, it’s important to understand a little about what laser hair removal is and what its limitations are. In the video above, you can watch one of our beauty experts experience the laser hair removal process, which we break down by its key elements below:

• Reduces or eliminates hair growth: Laser hair removal will slow hair growth, making it less noticeable. However, periodic maintenance treatments may be needed, and results can vary from person to person.

• Good for any skin tone but not all hair colors: Laser hair removal is less effective on red hair and not effective on very light hair. Clients with fair skin and dark hair generally see the best results.

• Before and after care: Experts recommend shaving the day before treatment, but advise against tanning, waxing, and tweezing.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Clients can typically expect a 60% reduction in hair growth after the first treatment, though as noted above, laser hair-removal results vary from person to person.

It’s important to remember that laser hair removal affects only actively growing hair follicles, which means that it may take several treatments to see significant hair reduction. Generally, 4–6 treatments spaced 4–8 weeks apart are needed, depending on the area.

How does laser hair removal work?

Noninvasive laser light targets and heats the melanin (or pigment) in hair follicles. The light is absorbed by the pigment, thereby damaging the follicle and inhibiting hair growth.

Which hair-removal laser is best for you?

There are a lot of factors that go into this decision. In short, it’s probably most important to match your skin and hair tone to the laser that can treat it most effectively. The Ruby laser, for instance, is best for clients with fair skin, whereas the Nd:YAG laser can be used on all skin types. For more details, read our article to find out exactly which hair-removal laser is best for you.