Why a protocol and not a single session?
Contrary to popular belief, a single session is not enough. Laser hair removal only works on actively growing hair. But not all hairs grow at the same time. To effectively target the majority of hairs, a multi-session protocol, spread over several months, is essential.
The hair cycle: the key to protocol
Hair develops in three phases:
- Anagen (growth): the only time when the laser can act.
- Catagen (transition)
- Telogen (resting)
At each session, only 10-20% of hairs are in the anagen phase. Hence the importance of a precise rhythm, to capture hairs at the right moment.
Number of sessions: what toexpect?
The duration depends on several factors: area treated, hair type, phototype, and technology used.
Here is an average estimate:
- Face: 8 to 12 sessions
- Underarms / Bikini line / Legs: 6 to 8 sessions
- Back / Torso: 8 to 12 sessions
Important: Blond, red, grey or white hair is less reactive, or even untreatable, if it lacks melanin.
How long between sessions?
This is fundamental to the success of the treatment.
- Body zones (legs, arms, back…): every 6 to 8 weeks
- Facial areas: every 4 to 6 weeks
Note: Towards the end of the protocol, we sometimes space out further (up to 12-14 weeks) to target the remaining regrowth.
What happens next? The maintenance phase
Some areas, such as the face, lower back or stomach, are hormone-dependent. Even after a successful protocol, new hairs may appear.
In these cases, 1 or 2maintenance sessions per year are required to maintain impeccable results.
On average, how long does a protocol last?
In general, you should allow 8 to 12 months. This may seem a long time, but it respects the hair’s natural cycles, and guarantees lasting hair reduction.
Why follow protocol to the letter?
- Not following the right rhythm = less efficiency, more long-term sessions
- Following recommendations = better results, in less time
Novaskin Clinic: highly personalized care
At Novaskin :
- Each patient benefits from a tailor-made diagnosis
- The power of the Hera Neo 2000W (Alexandrite & Yag) laser is adjusted for each session.
- A precise timetable has been defined to optimize the protocol
- Any touch-up sessions are scheduled according to your needs.
In a nutshell
Effective laser treatment rests on three pillars:
consistency, personalization and technology.
At Novaskin Clinic, we’re with you every step of the way to transform the hair removal experience into a highly controlled, long-lasting and comfortable treatment.