During which phase of hair growth is the hair most susceptible to laser treatments?

The Anagen phase, also known as the growth phase, is when hair follicles are actively producing hair. This phase is crucial for laser hair removal because the hair is in its most robust and attached state, making it more vulnerable to the effects of laser treatments. The laser targets the pigment (melanin) in the hair shaft, and since the hair is actively growing and has a significant amount of melanin, the laser energy is effectively absorbed and converts to heat, damaging the follicle.

During the other phases, the hair is either shedding or transitioning, making it either less directly attached to the follicle (Telogen phase) or not actively growing (Catagen phase). In the Exogen phase, the hair is in the process of being shed, meaning there is little to no melanin present in the hair shaft for the laser to target effectively. Hence, the Anagen phase is the optimal time for laser treatments to ensure successful hair removal.