How to Maintain IPL Hair Removal Results Long-Term 

You’ve completed your IPL hair removal sessions, and your skin is looking smoother than ever—but now you’re wondering: how do I maintain these results? Will the hair grow back? How often should I continue treatments?

This guide covers exactly how to maintain your IPL results after your initial sessions, including how often to do maintenance, what skincare you need, and how to avoid common regrowth triggers—especially for Pakistani skin tones (Fitzpatrick III–V).

What Happens After Your Initial IPL Cycle?

Most users complete 8–12 weekly IPL sessions for full results. After that, hair becomes:

  • Finer

  • Patchy

  • Slower to grow

  • Easier to manage

But IPL is not 100% permanent. Hair follicles can reactivate due to:

  • Hormonal changes (PCOS, pregnancy, thyroid)

  • Skipped maintenance sessions

  • Stress or medication

  • Genetics

How Often Should You Use IPL After the First 3 Months?

Time Period Frequency of IPL Notes
Month 1–3 (Post-cycle) Every 3–4 weeks Maintain reduction and catch regrowth
Month 4–6 Every 4–6 weeks Target fine regrowth areas
Month 6+ Every 6–8 weeks or as needed Use when you notice new hair


Signs It’s Time for a Maintenance Session

  • You notice new dark hair patches in previously treated areas

  • Shaving frequency increases

  • Facial hair (chin or upper lip) returns due to hormonal shifts

  • Hair regrows thicker in spots like underarms or bikini line

Maintenance Tips for Each Body Area

Area Maintenance Frequency Tips
Underarms Every 4–6 weeks Use gentle mode, especially after deodorant use
Bikini Line Every 4–5 weeks Shave first, avoid tanning
Chin/Jawline Every 3–4 weeks Hormonal hair may need more frequent sessions
Legs Every 6–8 weeks Glide mode for fast sessions
Arms Every 6–8 weeks Use low setting if skin feels dry

What to Avoid Between Sessions

❌ Waxing, plucking, threading — removes root, making IPL ineffective
❌ Tanning or sun exposure on treated areas
❌ Skipping more than 2 months of maintenance (can cause regrowth cycle reset)
❌ Harsh exfoliants or actives within 48 hours of treatment

Post-IPL Skincare for Long-Term Results

✅ After Every Maintenance Session:

  • Apply cooling aloe gel or calming serum

  • Avoid deodorants or scented lotions for 24–48 hours

  • Wear SPF 50+ daily (especially for facial and arm treatments)

  • Moisturize to keep skin barrier healthy

Recommended Skincare from TheLuxSkins.com

Product Type
Aloe-based face masks Shop Face Masks
Fragrance-free serums Browse Serums
Broad-spectrum sunscreen Shop SPF

Will IPL Results Last Forever?

Not exactly.

Even after a full treatment cycle:

  • Hair can return due to hormonal triggers (e.g. PCOS)

  • Maintenance is needed every 4–8 weeks

  • Skipping sessions can allow follicles to reactivate

  • Proper skincare prolongs results

📌 Think of IPL as long-term management, not permanent removal.

FAQs – Maintaining IPL Results

Do I need to shave before maintenance sessions?
Yes. Always shave 24 hours before your session for best light absorption.

Can I stop maintenance once hair disappears?
You can pause, but regrowth may return. Monthly touch-ups are recommended.

Will hormonal conditions like PCOS affect my results?
Yes, facial and jawline hair may require ongoing monthly sessions.

What if I skipped IPL for 2 months?
Resume weekly for 3–4 weeks, then return to your normal maintenance schedule.