What effect does the anagen phase have on laser hair removal efficacy?

The anagen phase, also known as the growth phase of the hair cycle, plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of laser hair removal. During this phase, the hair follicles are actively producing hair and are more likely to be permanently damaged by the laser treatment. The laser targets the pigment in the hair shaft; thus, when the hair is in the anagen phase, it contains more melanin, which absorbs the laser energy more efficiently.

When hair is in the anagen phase, treatments tend to yield better results, as the laser energy is effectively delivered to the follicle, leading to more significant hair reduction. It is during this phase that the follicle is most vulnerable to the effects of the laser, resulting in a decreased chance of hair regrowth.

This understanding highlights why targeting hairs in the anagen phase is optimal for achieving satisfactory results from laser hair removal treatments.