Hair growth on the skin is normal and is a physical process. Therefore, hair growth will always occur for as long as the body has the ability to allow it. However, thanks to laser hair removal treatments. Various problems on hair growth can now be addressed with such modern technology. Laser hair removal involves laser light hitting the follicles of the hair and effectively reducing its growth.
Laser hair removal already reduces hair growth by 10 to 25 percent during the first session. But in order to achieve even better and more satisfying results, several more sessions are recommended in order to keep hair re-growth at bay.
How Does Hair Grow?
In order to have a clearer idea of why several laser hair removal sessions are needed to achieve maximum results, let us first discuss the cycle of hair growth. This cycle involves three phases namely:
- Anagen- is also known as the growing phase of hair. About 80 to 90 percent of hair follicles are in this phase. During this anagen phase, the hair grows continuously and will continue to grow for 3 to 7 years. The growth happens at a rate of half an inch per month. Also, it is in this stage that the bulb produces the hair’s pigment. As blood supply provides nutrients and minerals to the hair, they eventually look thick and nourished.
- Catagen- this phase lasts 2 to 4 weeks wherein the hair takes a transition before going to rest. At this time, the hair detaches itself from the blood supply it gets and the detached follicle is reduced to 1/6 of its size. The hair bulb, which stops producing pigment, will be raised to the surface as the new hair is formed. It is believed that 2-3 percent of all the hairs in a person’s scalp are in the catagen phase.
- Telogen- the third phase of hair growth is known as the telogen phase where hair slowly falls off as it is replaced with a new hair. Of the 10-15 percent of hair in this phase, there are about 50-100 falls off every day. At this stage, the hair becomes softer to pull. Moreover, once pulled a new hair follicle emerges.
How Many Laser Treatments Are Needed Then?
The first laser hair removal session will already yield effects. However, this may not be enough due to the fact that hair regenerates as it follows its cycle. Furthermore, there are also the dormant follicles during the first session that are now ready to grow. So successive and multiple sessions are needed in order that all hairs are hit by the treatment. In order to achieve the best results of 80 to 90 percent hair reduction, a total of 4 to 7 sessions every other month needs to be done.
In order to achieve optimum results for one’s laser hair removal, the particularly suitable type of this technology has to be carried out. Here are some different laser hair removal technologies that you can choose.
- Ruby laser – This technology generates best results for lighter skin.
- Alexandrite laser – This method of laser hair removal works for light-to-olive complexion and larger body parts.
- Long-Pulse Nd:Yag laser – This method is usually opted by individuals who have coarse hair and dark or tanned skin.
- Diode laser – This is a more advance method that works great for dark and light skin and for black and brown hair.
- Intense Pulsed Light Devices – This technology is best for all skin colors and hair types except for light hair.
Does It Differ Depending On The Area Being Treated?
Another factor to be considered is the area that needs to be targeted. The success of the treatment depends on how dense or thin the hairs are. Generally, the less dense hair areas like the armpits and bikini area need between three and six sessions. Facial hair treatments, on the other hand, would need about three sessions as well. Hair removal, depending on the density of hairs, would require about three to five sessions to ensure that hair growth is reduced significantly. Furthermore, aside from these main treatments, maintenance treatments are also recommended to keep hair growth controlled.
The Hair Loss Journal may be sought for advises regarding the number of treatments of laser hair removal one might need. However, it says that achieving an 80 percent successful hair reduction may need about four to six sessions. Furthermore, the Mayo Clinic, which also specializes in this hair removal technology suggests giving it 6 to 8 sessions every 6 to eight weeks. This is not bad for anyone. Around 20 to 90 percent hair reduction may be seen with this schedule.
Here is a detailed list of the particular body part needed for treatment and its corresponding required number of sessions.
Face – 3-6 sessions between 2-3 months
Upper lip – 6 sessions between 1.5 or 2.5 months
Chin – 5 sessions every two months
Forearm – 4 sessions every 2-3 months
Back – 4 sessions between 2-4 months
Chest – 4 sessions between 2-3 months
Underarm – 6 sessions between 2-3 months
Thighs – 4 sessions between 2-4 months
Legs – 4 sessions between 2-3 months
Before undergoing laser hair removal treatment it is best to personally consult a dermatologist as results may vary depending on one’s skin and hair type. By visiting a laser hair removal expert, you will learn how many treatments you need to undergo to achieve the best possible results.