The Shedding Phase Explained, How to Tell Shedding From Regrowth, and What to Do Between Sessions — A Guide for Orland Park, Tinley Park, Palos Heights, Oak Lawn and Frankfort
By Kabirat A. · Oxygen Med Spa, Orland Park, IL · Updated October 2026
Oxygen Med Spa — 14360 South La Grange Road, Unit D, Orland Park, IL 60462, serving Orland Park, Tinley Park, Palos Heights, Oak Lawn, Frankfort and surrounding suburbs since 2008. Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM; closed Sunday. (708) 229-8800 · book online.
Quick answer: If your hair looks like it is growing back about two weeks after laser hair removal, it is usually the shedding phase, not a failed treatment. Treated hairs do not fall out the moment the laser touches them. Over several days to weeks, the damaged follicles push those hairs out, and as they rise to the surface they can look like stubble or new growth. Hairs that were resting during your session also keep growing, which is why laser works as a series.
What the Shedding Phase Is
Laser hair removal heats the pigment in the hair and damages the follicle, but the hair itself is still sitting in the skin afterward. As Mayo Clinic notes, hair does not fall out right away; treated hair usually sheds over several days to weeks. During that time, the treated hairs work their way up and out.
Why It Happens Around Two Weeks
The first few days after a session are often quiet. Then, in the following weeks, many clients notice stubble or small dark dots in the treated area. That is the treated hairs on their way out, not a sign the laser missed.
The Real Difference: Shedding vs. Regrowth
Not every hair is in the same stage at the same time. The laser works best on hairs in the active growth phase, so hairs that were resting during your session are not affected yet. Those hairs grow in normally and get treated at a later session. Shedding hairs tend to loosen and come away over time, while untreated hairs stay put and keep growing. Your technician can check which is which at your next appointment.
What to Do While Hair Is Shedding
You can shave if the shedding bothers you. Do not pluck, wax or use hair removal creams that pull hair from the root, because the laser needs the follicle intact for your next session. Protect the area from the sun and follow your aftercare. Many clients also notice fewer ingrown hairs as treatment goes on, which our post on laser hair removal and ingrown hairs explains.
Why You Still Need the Full Series
Because hairs cycle through growth and rest, one session can only reach part of them. That is why sessions are spaced every 4 to 6 weeks, and why most clients need 6 to 8 sessions to complete a series, as our laser hair removal packages page explains. Our post on how many sessions you may need covers the factors that affect your plan, and our full body laser guideexplains how larger areas are scheduled.
Signs Your Treatment Is Working
Hair shedding after a session, patches that stay smoother for longer, and regrowth that comes in finer or sparser over time are all good signs. Many clients notice less regrowth after their first one or two sessions.
When to Check In With Us
If an area shows no change at all after several sessions, or if anything about your skin concerns you, call us. Our laser hair removal uses the FDA-cleared Palomar Vectus laser, and our licensed technicians can review your progress and adjust your plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my hair look like it is growing after laser hair removal?
Treated hairs do not fall out right away. They are pushed out of the follicle over several days to weeks, which can look like new growth even though those hairs have already been treated.
How long does shedding last after laser hair removal?
Shedding usually happens over several days to a few weeks after a session. Every client and treatment area is a little different.
Can I pluck or wax the hairs that are shedding?
No. Avoid plucking and waxing during your series, because the laser needs the follicle intact. You can shave if you need to.
How can I tell shedding from real regrowth?
Shedding hairs tend to loosen and come away easily over time, while hairs that were resting during your session will keep growing. Your technician can check at your next visit.
Why do I still need more sessions if the hair is shedding?
At any time, some hairs are resting and are not affected by the laser. They grow in later, which is why sessions are spaced every 4 to 6 weeks across a series.
Is shedding a sign the treatment is working?
Yes. Shedding is a normal part of the process and shows that treated follicles are releasing their hairs.
How do I book?
Call (708) 229-8800 or book online. We are open Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and new clients can start with a free consultation.
Find Out Where You Are in Your Series
Seeing hair two weeks after laser is usually a sign the process is working, not a reason to worry. Book your next session or a free consultation, or call (708) 229-8800. Still have questions? See our price list, learn more about Oxygen Med Spa or reach out directly.
Oxygen Med Spa · 14360 South La Grange Road, Unit D, Orland Park, IL 60462 · (708) 229-8800 · Monday–Saturday, 10 AM–5 PM
Individual results vary. Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, and shedding, regrowth and the number of sessions needed depend on hair color, skin type, hormones and the treatment area. This article is educational and is not medical advice.
