How to avoid paradoxical regrowth after laser hair removal?

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How to avoid paradoxical regrowth after laser hair removal?

How to avoid paradoxical regrowth after laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a popular solution for getting rid of unwanted hair in the long term. However, some people may experience a phenomenon called“paradoxical regrowth“: instead of shrinking, hair grows back thicker and darker in certain areas. What is paradoxical regrowth? What factors can cause it? What can you do to avoid it? Here are our tips for avoiding it and maximizing the results of your laser hair removal!  

What is paradoxical regrowth?

Paradoxical re-growth refers to the re-growth of darker, denser hair following laser hair removal sessions. So instead of reducing them, laser hair removal sessions multiply them. This result, contrary to the initial objective, can be a source of frustration for people who have chosen laser hair removal as a long-term solution to unwanted hair. Some of the main causes of paradoxical regrowth include:

  • Heat stimulation of hair follicles when hair is too fine
  • Hormonal changes
  • Incorrect laser hair removal settings
  • Certain areas of the body are more sensitive
  • Skin type

 

What factors promote paradoxical regrowth after laser hair removal?

Several factors can promote paradoxical regrowth after a laser hair removal session, such as:

  • Removing fine or downy hair: Laser hair removal works best on thick, dark hair, because it absorbs the laser light better. Very fine hair or down may not be detected effectively by the laser. Heating up downy hair with a hair-removal laser can create a favorable environment for new hair growth, resulting in paradoxical regrowth;
  • Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those observed during pregnancy, menopause or due to hormonal disorders, can affect hair growth and influence the results of laser hair removal. In fact, the heat delivered by the laser beam can influence the production of certain hormones that play a role in hair regulation and growth.
  • A poorly optimized cooling system: During a laser hair removal session, a cooling system is used to protect the skin from thermal damage and to make the treatment more comfortable. An inefficient or poorly optimized cooling system can lead to increased heat on the skin, which can stimulate hair growth and promote paradoxical regrowth;
  • Darker skin: People with darker skin have an increased risk of paradoxical regrowth after laser hair removal, due to the large amount of melanin present in their skin. This can lead to increased absorption of laser energy by the skin rather than the hair follicle. An efficient cooling system, used simultaneously with the laser, considerably reduces the risk of paradoxical regrowth.

 

What treatments are available to combat paradoxical regrowth?

To counter paradoxical regrowth after a laser hair removal session, the first step is to carefully follow the recommendations provided by the laser hair removal professional! This means respecting the recommended number of sessions and the intervals between them. The aim? Optimize treatment results and reduce the risk of paradoxical regrowth. Electrolysis (electrical hair removal) makes it possible to remove hair hair by hair, while focusing on areas at risk of stimulation or paradoxical regrowth. Electrolysis is particularly recommended for women in the following areas:

  • chin,
  • cheeks,
  • neck and nape,
  • upper arms,
  • lower back,
  • chest,
  • armpits,
  • buttocks,
  • upper thighs.

 

5 tips to avoid paradoxical regrowth after laser hair removal

Here are a few treatments and tips that can be considered to prevent or treat paradoxical regrowth:

  • Perform all recommended sessions: To obtain optimal results and reduce the risk of paradoxical regrowth, it is essential that you complete all the laser hair removal sessions recommended by your dedicated professional, so as to effectively target all hair follicles in the growth phase;
  • Respect the intervals between sessions: The intervals set between laser hair removal sessions are also meticulously planned to effectively target hair follicles in the active growth phase and reduce the risk of paradoxical regrowth;
  • Reassess the treatment protocol: In the event of persistent paradoxical regrowth, it may be necessary to reassess the treatment protocol with the laser hair removal professional (adjustments to laser parameters, use of other hair removal technologies, etc.);
  • Avoid waxing or tweezing between sessions: Between laser hair removal sessions, avoid using hair removal methods that pull out hair at the root, such as waxing or tweezing, as this can disrupt the laser hair removal process by stimulating hair growth and increasing the risk of paradoxical regrowth;
  • Opt for soothing and moisturizing products to prepare your skin: Finally, after a laser hair removal session, don’t forget to use soothing and moisturizing products to calm the skin and reduce possible skin reactions.

  Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with our specialists to discuss your laser hair removal project and benefit from personalized advice to avoid paradoxical regrowth between two sessions!

Article redigé par Epilium

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