Why do you need to have multiple laser hair removal sessions?

Many of our guests ask us why laser hair removal requires multiple sessions to see conclusive results.

Unlike traditional hair removal methods like waxing or shaving, laser hair removal takes more time and can last for several months. So you need to be patient!

Find out in our article the factors that impact the number of laser hair removal sessions required.

Laser hair removal and the hair cycle

The hair cycle plays a crucial role in the success of your laser hair removal.

Hair goes through three essential growth phases: catagen, telogen, and anagen.

The catagen phase (beginning of involution)

This phase marks the beginning of the involution of the hair follicle and the cessation of any new growth. This lasts for a period of approximately two to three weeks. Laser hair removal during the catagen phase is not effective.

The telogen phase (resting phase)

This is the final phase in which the hair completely detaches from the hair follicle and is eventually removed. This takes place over three months before the active growth cycle (anagen) begins again. Laser hair removal in the telogen phase is also ineffective.

The anagen phase (growth phase)

This is the active growth phase of new hairs. This takes place over a period of 1 to 3 months. To obtain the best results, several sessions are necessary to treat all the hairs as they successively enter the anagen phase. Each treatment session is scheduled at specific intervals to capture the maximum number of hair follicles in the anagen phase and ensure a significant and lasting reduction of hair. During this phase, the laser beam is able to effectively target and damage the hair follicle, because it is loaded with melanin. The darker the hair, the more encouraging the results.

By adapting laser hair removal sessions according to the hair cycle, the results can only be satisfactory.

Age

Age is another factor that has a considerable influence on the number of laser sessions to be performed, particularly due to puberty and unfinished hormonal maturity.

Individuals who have not reached hormonal maturity at the time of treatment may require more laser hair removal sessions since hormonal changes and irregular menstrual cycles in women can alter and accelerate hair regrowth.

Some laser-treated hairs may grow back after puberty, causing treatment recipients to have multiple sessions before achieving the desired results.

Find out what is the ideal age to have laser hair removal?

Hormone-sensitive areas and paradoxical regrowth

Certain hormone-sensitive areas such as the cheeks or chin and people with hormonal imbalances are at risk of paradoxical regrowth after laser treatment.

It is therefore essential that practitioners monitor the evolution of the results over the course of laser sessions and adapt them accordingly. If paradoxical regrowth occurs, the therapist will have to plan additional staggered laser sessions in order to eradicate them.

Hair and skin type and color

Dark hair, being richer in melanin, absorbs the laser energy more easily and therefore responds better to treatment. On the other hand, areas with finer hair may need a greater number of sessions.

The maximum interval between two laser hair removal sessions

The time allowed between each laser hair removal session is an essential parameter to ensure the success of the treatment. During this interval, the hair will have time to move into the active growth phase (anagen) before your next hair removal session.

If this time is too short, this would leave less time for hair to grow back. Therefore, the laser beam may not work properly, thus extending the treatment time.

It is important to respect the duration recommended by your therapist in order to avoid having to extend the treatment. Generally, the waiting time between two sessions can vary from 4 to 8 weeks.

Knowing all of these factors will help you better understand why laser treatment can take several months or even a year to achieve the result you are looking for.

How many sessions should I do?

The number of laser hair removal sessions depends mainly on the area to be treated as well as the factors just mentioned.

Generally, it is recommended to perform an average of 8 laser sessions, but for certain areas, you will need to plan for up to 10 to 12 sessions.

Don't worry, an estimate of the number of sessions needed for each area will be given to you during the first consultation with your permanent hair removal specialist.

To get an estimate of the number of laser sessions, book a free consultation with us!

SSSKIN allows you to arrange a free, no-obligation initial consultation with our therapist to assess your individual needs and develop a personalized treatment program with you.

Book a free consultation