To better understand how Laser Hair Rmoval can achieve the most effective results, it is helpful to have some understanding of the hair growth cycle.
The hair growth cycle consists of three stages:
- Growth Phase (Anagen)
- Transition Phase (Catagen)
- Resting Phase (Telogen)
Anagen is the active growth phase of hair follicles. The cells in the root of hair are dividing rapidly, extending to the hair shaft. During the anagen phase the hair follicles are most receptive to the laser light as they are rich in protein (keratinized cells) and melanin. The duration of the anagen phase for a hair follicle is genetically determined. About 85% of hair follicles on our body are in the anagen phase, which may last for about 2-6 years. At the completion of the anagen phase, the follicle enters the catagen phase.
During the catagen phase, the hair stops growing, and remains in this phase for only 2-3 weeks before moving into the next phase. Approximately 5% of our hair is in this phase at any given time.
The next stage is the telogen phase when the hair starts to shed while the follicle is stimulated to begin a new cycle. The length of this stage is about 100 days for the healthy follicles on the scalp, but may vary significantly for hair on the other areas of the body. Approximately 10% of hair follicles are in the telogen phase at any given time.
Now we know that the anagen is the most important phase for laser hair removal. The results of a single laser hair removal procedure will largely depend on the amount of hair in the treated area that is in the anagen phase. This is also why multiple laser hair removal treatments are required to achieve the ideal results since hair follicles in a single area may be at different growth phases.
To learn more about how Q Esthetics laser clinic can achieve the best results of Laser Hair Removal for you, please call one of our two convenient clinics to book your complimentary consultation.
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