Is photonic hair removal permanent?
Jun 30, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, photonic hair removal is not strictly speaking a permanent hair removal method, but rather achieves long-term hair reduction through physical means. Its effectiveness is closely related to the physiological characteristics of hair follicles, the number of treatments, and individual differences. If necessary, it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and undergo the procedure under the guidance of a qualified physician. After the procedure, proper skin cleansing should be maintained to avoid infection, which may affect the hair removal outcome.
In general, photonic hair removal is not strictly speaking permanent hair removal, but rather achieves long-term hair reduction through physical methods. Its effectiveness is closely related to the physiological characteristics of hair follicles, the number of treatments, and individual differences. A detailed analysis is as follows:
The core technology of photonic hair removal is intense pulsed light (IPL), which penetrates the skin's surface using a broad-spectrum light. The light is selectively absorbed by melanin in the hair follicles, converting light energy into heat energy that damages the follicular stem cells and hair papilla, thereby inhibiting hair regrowth. Since hair follicle growth is divided into anagen (growth phase), catagen (regression phase), and telogen (resting phase), and photonic treatment is only effective on follicles in the anagen phase, multiple treatments are required to target follicles in different growth cycles.
Although photonic energy can damage hair follicles, in most cases the follicles do not completely die but instead enter a prolonged dormant state. If affected by hormonal levels, local irritation, or other factors, some follicles may reactivate, leading to hair regrowth. This is especially true for individuals with unstable hormone levels or insufficient treatment cycles, who have a higher probability of recurrence.
Therefore, photonic hair removal does not offer permanent hair removal. If necessary, it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and undergo the procedure under the guidance of a qualified physician. Post-treatment, proper skin cleansing is essential to avoid infection and ensure optimal hair removal results.
