How does hair growth cycle affect laser hair removal effectiveness?

Laser hair removal effectiveness is closely linked to the hair growth cycle, specifically the anagen phase. During this phase, hair is actively growing, and the hair follicle is in its most robust state. The laser works by targeting the pigment (melanin) in the hair. In the anagen phase, the hair contains the most amount of melanin, making it easier for the laser to precisely target and damage the follicle.

This damage inhibits future hair growth, leading to long-lasting results. Once the hair enters the other phases of growth—catagen and telogen—the hair becomes thinner and less filled with pigment. As a result, lasers are less effective since there is less melanin to absorb the light energy. Therefore, for optimal results in laser hair removal, treatments should be timed to coincide with the anagen phase of the hair cycle, when the hair is most susceptible to the treatment.