5 Factors That Affect Laser Hair Removal

Lasers are the most effective and longest-lasting hair removal treatment available today. However, laser hair removal is a time-related cosmetic procedure and lasers do not work in the same way for everyone.  

So, here are the main factors that influence the success of the laser hair removal process - read on for more information.

Skin tone and hair color

The contrast between skin tone and hair color is probably the biggest factor inhibiting the success of this treatment. Laser hair removal devices seek out the melanin in the hair follicle and then use light and heat to destroy the follicle to the extent that it ultimately limits the growth of the hair.

The laser needs to be able to separate the hair follicle from the skin in order to work most effectively. Therefore, the ideal candidates for laser treatment are those with lighter skin and darker hair.

Growth Cycles

Hair has different stages of growth - anagen, diestrus, and resting. Laser hair removal treatments are most effective on hair in the anagen phase. However, hairs do not grow at the same time, so laser hair removal cannot target all hairs in one treatment. This is why any effective treatment has to be done over several sessions.

Hormone levels

Hormone levels affect hair growth and therefore your laser hair removal treatment may be affected. The higher the hormone levels, the faster the hair will grow. Although laser treatment is effective for current hair growth, it cannot treat future hair growth caused by hormonal imbalances. Therefore, people suffering from hormonal imbalances may need more sessions to maintain the results.

In addition, conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hirsutism in the hair cycle can also cause hormonal imbalances and promote excessive hair growth.

Previous use of hair removal products

Other hair removal products (e.g. waxing) may reduce hair temporarily but are not a permanent hair removal solution. Past use of these products may have thinned your hair, making laser hair removal treatments more effective. Laser hair removal does not guarantee the permanent elimination of every hair follicle on your body, but it is the best hair removal procedure for smoother skin for longer.

Number of treatments

The number of treatments varies from person to person, but most people will need between 6 and 8 treatments to achieve maximum results. The number of treatments will depend on all of the above factors and most treatments will be carried out 4 to 8 weeks apart to allow for the anagen phase of the hair.

Are you interested in learning more about laser hair removal? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!