Hair follicles cycle in three phases: anagen, catagen and does laser hair removal work on peach fuzz lyrics search telogen. Anagen is the active period of growth during which cells in the root are dividing rapidly and the shaft lengthens. During this period, growth occurs at a rate of approximately 1 cm every 28 days. Scalp follicles can stay in this active phase of growth for two to seven years, while eyebrows and facial follicles may actively grow for only four to seven months. The length of the active growth period is genetically determined. 

external siteAt the end of the anagen period, a signal causes the follicle to move into the transitional catagen phase and, finally, the resting telogen phase. The transitional period can last between two and three weeks, while the resting period may last from three to nine months. The anagen phase of scalp follicles is longer than facial follicles, but the catagen and telogen periods of facial follicles are longer than in the scalp. As such, it is important to re-visit laser removal treatments depending on the cycle length of the area being treated.

While there are genetically predetermined variations in the active growth phase of the follicle, laser removal appointments are scheduled to target as many hairs as possible in the anagen phase. Most patients require at least six to eight initial treatments spaced 6-10 weeks apart. This allows subsequent treatments to target new hairs that have cycled out of the dormant phase and back into the active growth phase. Patients should experience a considerable reduction in growth with six to eight treatments. Further laser removal appointments are scheduled as necessary, depending on hair type and genetic factors.

Some factors that may predispose a patient to requiring more treatments include light brown, blonde or light red hair, hormonal imbalances, areas that are often waxed or plucked, thick hair and patients genetically predisposed to rapid or slow cycling. White hair does not respond well to laser treatment, no matter how many appointments are scheduled.

Instead of following an arbitrary schedule, many patients use physical indications and guidelines to schedule their follow-up laser removal treatments. Indications for further treatment include shedding of treated hairs, which should complete within two to three weeks, and noticeable new growth after the hair-free period.

The best way to determine the number of laser treatments required and how to properly space your appointments is to meet with a full body laser hair removal cost houston specialist in your area.