Hair removal has come a long way from the days of razors and wax strips. With modern advancements in aesthetic treatments, achieving smoother skin is more accessible and customisable than ever before. But for these procedures to work their magic, it's essential to understand one fundamental concept: your hair growth cycle.
This guide explores how your hair growth cycle affects the effectiveness of hair removal treatments. We'll also highlight the pros and cons of the most popular technologies today and explain how complementary skin care can enhance your overall results.
To get the most out of any hair removal treatment, it helps to first understand how your hair grows. Hair doesn’t grow all at once—it goes through a natural cycle of growth, rest, and shedding.
Here's an overview of the hair growth cycle:
Hair removal treatments usually yield the best results during the anagen phase—when the hair is actively growing and the follicle contains the most melanin (pigment). This makes it easier for light-based treatments like IPL and laser hair removal to target and weaken the follicle.
However, not all hairs are in the same phase at the same time. That's why multiple sessions are needed to catch each follicle at its most responsive stage. By aligning your treatments with your hair follicle cycle, you can:
Let's take a closer look at the different hair removal technologies available today and how each one interacts with the hair growth cycle to deliver results.
IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is a popular non-invasive hair removal technology that uses controlled bursts of light to disrupt hair follicles. Unlike laser hair removal, which uses a single wavelength, IPL disperses multiple wavelengths of light, allowing it to cover larger areas.
During the process, melanin in each hair strand absorbs light. Through a process called absorption, the light energy is converted into heat—which is then used to damage the hair follicle. Over time, this results in finer, lighter, and less noticeable hair. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of IPL hair removal is limited for individuals with light-coloured, grey, or red hair.
Can be customised to target various hair types, skin tones, and treatment areas
Covers large areas efficiently
Less painful than conventional in-clinic laser treatments
Viable for those who may not see optimal results with other hair removal methods
Requires multiple sessions for optimal results
Sun exposure before or after treatment can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation
Results can vary depending on skin and hair type
Diode laser hair removal is an advanced treatment that uses a single, concentrated wavelength of light, typically around 800–810 nm, to target melanin within the hair follicle. Similar to IPL, the light is absorbed and converted to heat, damaging the follicle to inhibit future hair growth.
One of the key benefits of diode laser treatments is their ability to penetrate deeper into the skin with greater precision. This allows it to precisely target hair follicles while requiring fewer passes, making it particularly efficient for treating larger areas like the back, legs, or arms. The in-built cooling features in the handpiece also help minimise discomfort and shield the skin throughout the procedure.
Like IPL, diode laser systems are most effective during the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. However, the technology comes with adjustable settings that make it suitable for a wider range of skin tones. This includes medium to darker complexions, which are often more sensitive to traditional IPL treatments. It’s also well-suited for individuals with dark, coarse hair, as the high melanin content absorbs the laser energy efficiently.
Lower risk of skin surface damage, making it ideal for sensitive or darker skin
Shorter downtime after treatment
Quicker sessions with rapid laser pulses
Especially suitable for targeting thick, coarse hair
Unsuitable for certain skin conditions or medications
Results may vary by hair colour, skin type, and individual response
For those with sensitive skin or a lower pain threshold, newer, painless hair removal technologies offer a gentler alternative without compromising on results.
Smooth Skin Control (S.S.C.) Hair Removal combines filtered light with a specially formulated gel to gently target hair follicles. When exposed to the light, the gel activates, helping to minimise discomfort during treatment. Designed to be gentle on the skin, this option offers a pain-free hair removal experience compared to traditional methods. The inclusion of plant peptides in the gel also helps to leave the skin smoother, softer, and more refined.
At Musee Platinum Tokyo, a premier hair removal salon, S.S.C hair removal treatments are not only effective but also efficient. Our advanced high-speed machine delivers results up to 1.5 times faster than conventional systems, significantly reducing session times without compromising on comfort or quality. It's an appealing solution for those seeking quick, reliable hair removal with minimal disruption to their schedule.
| Method | Pain Level | Duration | Impact on Skin |
|---|---|---|---|
| S.S.C. Hair Removal | Minimal | ~5–10 mins | Gentle to skin, no downtime |
| IPL and Laser Hair Removal | Mild–Moderate (IPL less painful than laser) |
~10 mins | Potential burns and skin staining |
| Waxing | High | ~10–20 mins | Potential burns, irritation, and hyperpigmentation |
For individuals with sensitive skin or a lower tolerance for pain, traditional hair removal solutions like waxing can often be too harsh, leading to irritation, redness, or prolonged discomfort. Even IPL and laser hair removal can be mildly painful.
S.S.C. Hair Removal, however, works gently on the skin while effectively targeting hair follicles. This makes it an ideal option for particularly sensitive areas, such as the face, underarms, or bikini line. It also carries a lower risk of adverse reactions like burns, bumps, or inflammation.
Depending on your hair growth cycle, we recommend consistent sessions every 1–2 months for smoother skin and slower regrowth. As the treatment gradually weakens hair follicles, the hair that does return becomes finer, lighter, and less frequent, reducing the need for shaving or plucking between visits.
While hair removal is a quick and efficient way to achieve smoother skin, combining it with the right skincare can take your results even further. After each session, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients, making it the perfect time to boost hydration, brightness, and overall skin health.
Here are some post-hair removal skincare treatments and techniques to consider:
Hair removal can sometimes reveal underlying pigmentation or uneven skin tone, particularly in the underarms and bikini line. This is where skin whitening treatments can help, lightening dark spots and evening out discolouration. Ingredients such as vitamin C, kojic acid, and niacinamide work to brighten dull areas and improve overall skin clarity.
After hair removal, the skin's pores are more open and receptive, allowing these brightening ingredients to absorb more effectively. As a result, these treatments tend to work faster and deliver more noticeable improvements in tone and texture.
It's normal for the skin to feel slightly sensitive or dry after hair removal treatments, especially with repeated sessions. That's why post-treatment care is essential. Using soothing creams or serums with ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or chamomile can help calm redness, minimise irritation, and reinforce the skin barrier. With regular care between appointments, you can keep your skin soft, smooth, and well-protected throughout your hair growth cycle and hair removal journey.
The period after hair removal is an ideal time to incorporate skin rejuvenation and anti-ageing treatments, as the skin is clear, smooth, and more receptive to active ingredients. Rejuvenating solutions, like retinoids, collagen boosters, and peptides, can help maintain a youthful appearance by reducing the appearance of fine lines and dullness. They also help maintain skin elasticity and firmness, which can be beneficial following hair removal treatments.
To enhance the success of your hair removal procedures, regular exfoliation and detoxification are crucial. Exfoliating regularly—whether through peels or scrubs—helps clear away dead skin cells that clog pores and block hair follicles, enhancing the effects of hair removal. This also encourages the regeneration of new, healthy skin cells, promoting a brighter and more even skin tone.
Complementing exfoliation with detox therapies, such as clay masks or lymphatic drainage, can further enhance skin clarity. These treatments help eliminate impurities, reduce inflammation, and support overall skin health, especially when the skin is more sensitive from repeated hair removal.
Together, these treatments improve the skin's responsiveness and results from hair removal procedures, leading to smoother and more even outcomes.
The hair growth cycle impacts hair removal effectiveness. Treatments are most effective during the anagen (growth) phase, when hair is actively growing, and its pigment is concentrated. During the catagen (transitional) and telogen (resting) phases, hair is less responsive, so multiple sessions are needed to target hair at different stages.
IPL and diode laser hair removal may cause temporary redness, swelling, or mild discomfort. The procedure may also carry a risk of pigmentation changes, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones. Diode laser treatments may rarely cause burns or skin discolouration. Always consult a professional to assess your skin type and minimise risks.
Incorporating skin care into your routine can improve the outcome of hair removal by supporting overall skin health. After hair removal, the skin absorbs serums and moisturisers better, improving texture and hydration. Skin brightening treatments can promote an even skin tone, while soothing treatments help maintain comfort, supporting overall skin renewal for smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Working with your hair growth cycle is essential for getting the most out of your hair removal journey. From understanding the science behind hair phases to selecting the right treatment, timing and technology matter. By incorporating skin care strategies such as brightening, repair, rejuvenation, and detoxification, you’re not just removing hair—you're elevating your skin's health and glow.
If you're ready to experience state-of-the-art hair removal and skin care solutions, consider visiting Musee Platinum Tokyo. Our advanced treatments and expert care are designed to provide you with exceptional results and a smoother, more radiant appearance. During your visit, our team will also help you better understand your hair growth cycle and customise a treatment plan that works just for you.
Book your appointment today, and let us help you achieve your skincare goals with confidence.
