Podcast Episode: The Secret to Achieving 90% Hair Reduction

Laser hair removal is one of the most requested aesthetic treatments, but many people still have questions about how it works, how many sessions they need, whether it hurts, and what kind of results they can realistically expect.

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In this episode of the Beauty Talk Podcast, host Daniel Gouw speaks with Jamison Stewart of Nouveau Dermé in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The conversation breaks down the science behind laser hair removal, the role of skin type, the difference between laser technologies, and why proper treatment planning matters for safe, effective results.

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Meet Jamison Stewart

Jamison Stewart brings a strong medical background to aesthetic care. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, in 2010. After graduating, he worked as a traveling nurse across multiple hospitals in different states, with experience in cardiology, surgical care, orthopedics, and aesthetics.

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He later earned his Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in primary care from Purdue University Global in 2020 and became board certified as a family nurse practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

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At Nouveau Dermé in Myrtle Beach, his favorite part of aesthetic medicine is helping patients see the results they hoped for and giving them that “wow” moment when they feel more confident in their appearance.

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How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal works by targeting melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. Jamison compares it to wearing a dark shirt in the sun. Dark colors absorb heat, while lighter colors reflect it. In the same way, laser energy is attracted to the darkness in the hair.

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When the laser hits the hair, the energy travels down into the follicle. The goal is to damage the structures that help the hair grow, including the cells and blood supply connected to the follicle. Once enough damage is done, that follicle has a much harder time producing new hair.

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This is why laser hair removal is not the same as shaving or waxing. Shaving cuts hair at the surface. Waxing removes hair from the root temporarily. Laser hair removal targets the follicle itself to reduce future growth.

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Why Multiple Sessions Are Needed

Hair does not grow all at once. Every follicle moves through different growth phases, and laser hair removal works best when the hair is in its active growth phase.

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Jamison explains that follicles are like “free agents.” Some are actively growing, while others are resting or shedding. Because of this, one treatment cannot catch every follicle at the right time.

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Most patients need at least six sessions. The exact number depends on the area being treated, the patient’s hair type, skin type, response to treatment, and treatment goals.

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Common areas such as the underarms, bikini area, legs, and face may require different spacing between visits. In many cases, treatments are scheduled around four to eight weeks apart.

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What Kind of Hair Reduction Can Patients Expect?

According to Jamison, the industry standard for a successful laser hair removal treatment plan is about 70% follicular reduction. At his practice, he commonly sees results closer to 80% to 90% reduction.

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That does not mean the treated area becomes completely hairless forever. Jamison makes it clear that laser hair removal will not make skin as hair free as the palm of your hand.

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The goal is meaningful, visible hair reduction. Many patients experience much finer, lighter, and slower regrowth after completing their sessions.

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Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

The follicles that are successfully treated and destroyed do not come back. However, the body can still produce new hair over time.

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Jamison explains that because we are living mammals, the body naturally wants to grow hair. This is why some patients return once a year for a maintenance treatment. Others may not need a touchup for much longer.

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Age, hormones, treatment area, and individual biology all play a role. Younger patients may notice regrowth sooner, while some older patients may go years before needing another treatment.

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Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

Most patients tolerate laser hair removal very well. Jamison describes the feeling as a hot rubber band snap against the skin.

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He notes that he has not had patients stop midway through treatment because the discomfort was too much. While sensitivity can vary by area and person, the treatment is generally manageable.

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Why Skin Type Matters

One of the most important parts of laser hair removal is matching the laser and settings to the patient’s skin type.

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Jamison explains that providers often use the Fitzpatrick scale, which ranges from type 1 to type 6. Lighter skin types fall closer to 1, while deeper skin tones fall closer to 6.

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Different skin types require different laser choices and settings. Using the wrong laser on the wrong skin type can increase the risk of burns or irritation.

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Alexandrite Laser vs. ND:YAG Laser

Jamison uses two main lasers for laser hair removal:

• Alexandrite laser: Often used for lighter skin types. It has a 755 nanometer wavelength and works well for many patients with Fitzpatrick skin types 1 to 3.

• ND:YAG laser: Often used for deeper skin tones. It has a 1064 nanometer wavelength and can pass through more surface pigment to reach the follicle more safely.

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The key point is that laser hair removal should not be treated as a one setting fits everyone procedure. Skin tone, hair color, treatment area, lifestyle, and sun exposure all affect the safest and most effective approach.

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Sun Exposure Before and After Treatment

Sun exposure is one of the biggest things patients need to take seriously.

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Jamison strongly advises patients to avoid beach days, tanning, and heavy sun exposure before and after laser hair removal. Treated skin can be more sensitive, and sun exposure can increase the risk of burning or irritation.

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This is especially important in sunny areas like Myrtle Beach. For some patients, certain times of year may be better for starting treatment, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors.

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Patients should also tell their provider about any medications they take. Some medications, including certain antibiotics, can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

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Laser Hair Removal for Razor Bumps and Ingrown Hairs

Laser hair removal can also help patients who struggle with razor bumps and ingrown hairs.

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When hair is shaved, the edge can become sharp. As it grows back, it may curl into the skin and cause bumps, irritation, and discoloration. This is common on the face, neck, bikini area, and other shaved areas.

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By reducing the number of active follicles, laser hair removal can reduce the need for shaving and help prevent repeated irritation.

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Laser Hair Removal and Hidradenitis Suppurativa

One of the most powerful parts of the podcast was Jamison’s discussion of hidradenitis suppurativa, often called HS.

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HS can cause painful bumps, boils, abscesses, and scarring in areas where skin touches skin, such as the underarms, groin, and under the breasts. Many patients live with it for years without realizing what it is.

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Jamison shared that laser hair removal may help some HS patients by reducing the role of the hair follicle in recurring flareups. He also discussed how pairing laser hair removal with other treatments, such as radiofrequency microneedling in selected cases, may help address inflammation and support healing.

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This part of the conversation shows how aesthetic technology can sometimes support more than appearance. For some patients, it can help improve comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

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Common Laser Hair Removal Myths

One of the biggest myths is that laser hair removal means you will never grow a single hair again.

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Jamison explains that the goal is reduction, not absolute removal. A strong result means noticeably less hair, fewer active follicles, and less need for shaving, waxing, or constant maintenance.

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Another common mistake is ignoring aftercare instructions. Patients should not treat laser hair removal casually. It may feel simple, but it still uses strong energy on the skin. Following pre treatment and post treatment instructions matters.

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How to Choose a Laser Hair Removal Provider

Jamison encourages patients to interview their provider as much as the provider interviews them.

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A good provider should be able to explain:

• What type of laser they use

• Why that laser is appropriate for your skin type

• How hair growth cycles affect the treatment plan

• How many sessions you may need

• What precautions you should follow before and after treatment

• How much experience they have with the procedure

 

Patients should also look at reviews, ask questions, and pay attention to how much time the provider spends with them. Laser hair removal should feel personal, thoughtful, and medically informed.

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A More Personal Approach to Aesthetic Medicine

Throughout the podcast, Jamison emphasizes that aesthetic care is not just about performing a procedure. Every patient has different skin, lifestyle habits, goals, concerns, medical history, and comfort level.

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He describes medicine as both art and science. A treatment plan should account for the whole person, not just the area being treated.

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For Jamison, beauty is deeper than skin. He sees it as a combination of physical, emotional, and personal confidence. His goal is to help patients address the concerns they may feel embarrassed to discuss, whether that is unwanted hair, skin irritation, spider veins, sweating, or another issue affecting their daily life.

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Ready to Learn More About Laser Hair Removal in Myrtle Beach?​

 

Laser hair removal can be a strong option for patients who want smoother skin, fewer ingrown hairs, less shaving, and long term hair reduction. The best results start with a proper consultation, the right laser technology, and a treatment plan based on your skin type and goals.

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At Nouveau Dermé in Myrtle Beach, patients can learn more about laser hair removal, expected results, treatment timing, and whether they are a good candidate.