Why Do I Still See Hair After Hair Removal Treatments?

Hair removal treatments get to the root of hair growth concerns, targeting the pigment around each hair follicle and stunting growth for smoother skin. But did you know that some hair regrowth is completely normal following hair removal appointments? If you’re wondering why the hair won’t disappear entirely, don’t sweat it. It’s all to do with the body’s basic hair growth patterns.

Hair Growth 101

Hair naturally grows in a three-phase cycle that includes a resting phase (telogen), a transitional phase (catagen), and a growth phase (anagen).

Hair removal treatments, whether by laser hair removal or intense pulsed light (IPL), affect hair follicles in the anagen phase by delivering heat to the follicle, destroying its structure and minimizing its ability to regrow.

This treatment is only effective on hair follicles in the anagen phase. Follicles that were in the catagen and telogen phases during this first treatment will move into the growth phase and will be treated during consequent appointments in your treatment plan. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that you can expect to see hair growth reduce by between 10% and 25% per laser hair removal treatments, and most practitioners agree on those numbers for IPL treatments as well.

But the hair growth cycle isn’t the only factor to consider. Medical conditions or changing hormone levels also play a role in hair regrowth, whether IPL and laser hair removal are in the mix or not. Hormones can keep some hairs in the resting phase during hair removal treatments, meaning treatments wouldn’t affect these follicles. Hormonal changes post-treatment could lead to hair regrowth as well.

Simply put, hair growth is more complex than it seems.

Getting—and Maintaining—the Best Results

It would be misleading to think that either laser or IPL hair removal will completely and permanently halt all hair growth. No hair removal treatment is capable of stopping hair growth entirely. But the results are still impressive—with both hair removal treatments, you can expect some minimal regrowth, with the hair appearing much lighter and finer than before, to the point that it may go completely unnoticed. Keeping expectations in check throughout and after the hair removal process can go a long way to boosting overall satisfaction.

Most concerns regarding regrowth can be quashed during maintenance appointments. These follow-up treatments are usually recommended every now and then for minor touch-ups, or more frequently depending on hair type, skin type, and desired results. Ask about the best timeline for maintenance treatments during the consultation appointment to get a better idea of what your treatment plan will look like down the road.

The treatment plan is your roadmap for achieving the most effective possible results. Avoid skipping or delaying appointments, and pay attention to the provider’s tips regarding care before and after each appointment.

For more details on how laser hair removal or IPL hair removal will work for you, book a consultation with a certified provider and have a customized treatment plan created for you. Find a hair removal provider near you today by entering your details below: