The Three Stages of Hair Growth
One of the most common questions at Electra Laser Hair Removal in Vancouver is why laser hair removal requires multiple treatments. The main reason for multiple treatments is that hair growth occurs in three stages:
1 – Anagen: the phase in which hair is actively growing
2 – Catagen: an intermediate phase at the end of anagen: the follicle prepares for dormancy
3 – Telogen: the resting phase, where old hairs are shed and follicles prepare for new hair growth
Hair follicles spend the largest amount of time in the in the anagen phase. About 85 to 90% of all hair on the body is in the anagen phase at any given time. Depending on the area of the body, this phase may last from one month to several years.
The length of time a hair follicle spends in the anagen phase directly correlates to the length of the hair it will produce. For instance, follicles on the scalp may spend up to five or six years in the anagen phase, whereas those of the eyebrows may only spend about one month in this phase.
Approximately 10 to 15% of the body’s hair are in the catagen phase, which can last up to a few weeks. Only about 5% of hair is in the telogen phase at one time, which lasts from a few weeks to a few months. Hair follicles with long anagen phases generally have a short telogen phase, and vise-versa.
The Anagen Phase of Hair Growth
The anagen phase of hair growth is essential in laser hair removal. This is because during the anagen stage, the dermal papilla of the hair follicle is actively responding to the hormones and nutrients that control hair growth. Laser therapy’s light energy inactivates the papilla, which disrupts hair growth.
However, not all follicles in a specific treatment area are in an anagen phase at the same time. The dermal papilla is not active in either the catagen or telogen phase, so hair follicles that are in either of these phases at the time of treatment will not be responsive to the laser. Staging multiple laser hair removal treatments allows the various follicles in the treatment area to be targeted while they are active: this ensures optimal hair removal results.
It’s important to note that the phases of hair growth are influenced by genetic make-up, which means that the number of laser treatments necessary to treat a specific area of the body will differ among individuals. Some people have longer, or more active anagen phases than others. These individuals may experience more hair growth as a result, and in some cases may require an extra one or two treatment sessions. Conversely, others may find they need very few laser treatment sessions before achieving lasting results.
The professionals at Electra Laser Hair Removal will work with you to develop the most effective and efficient hair removal plan for you personally.
Phone: 604-255-2737 – Downtown Vancouver
