What Are the Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?
It’s generally safe
If you're sick of shaving and other traditional hair removal methods, laser hair removal may be for you. Laser hair treatments, which are provided by a dermatologist or another qualified and trained expert, work by preventing the follicles from growing new hairs. Laser hair removal is generally considered safe for the majority of people. The procedure is also not associated with any long-term side effects.
Even so, debates about the risks of laser hair removal abound. Although temporary and minor side effects may occur as a result of the procedure, other side effects are uncommon. Aside from that, any claims about links to your long-term health are unsubstantiated.
Here's what you should know.
Minor side effects are common
Laser hair removal is accomplished through the use of small, high-heat lasers. Immediately following the procedure, the laser may cause temporary side effects. The most common side effects are skin irritation and pigmentation changes.
Redness and Irritation
Laser hair removal can cause temporary irritation. There may also be some redness and swelling in the treated area. Nonetheless, these effects are minor. They are frequently the same as the effects of other types of hair removal, such as waxing.
To reduce these side effects, your dermatologist may use a topical anaesthetic prior to the procedure.
Overall discomfort should subside within a few hours of the procedure. Applying ice packs to the affected area may help to reduce swelling and pain. If you experience symptoms that are more than mild irritation or if the side effects worsen, contact your doctor.
Pigmentation changes
You may notice that your skin is slightly darker or lighter after laser treatment. If you have fair skin, you are more likely to develop darker spots as a result of laser hair removal. People with dark skin, on the other hand, may have lighter spots as a result of the procedure. These changes, like skin irritation, are usually transient and not cause for concern.
Severe side effects are rare
Laser hair removal can occasionally cause more severe side effects. If you use at-home laser kits or seek treatment from a provider who isn't trained and certified, your risk increases.
Rare side effects of laser hair removal include:
Consult your doctor about these side effects. Even though they are extremely rare, it is still a good idea to be aware of them. If you experience any of these symptoms after laser hair removal, contact your doctor.
Can laser hair removal be used while pregnant?
This procedure is not recommended during pregnancy. This is primarily because no human studies have demonstrated the safety of laser hair treatments during pregnancy.
You may require laser hair removal to remove excess hair that has grown during your pregnancy. Breasts and stomach are common areas of increased hair growth. However, in most cases, these hairs fall out on their own, so if you wait until after your pregnancy is over, you may not need any medical treatments.
If you're pregnant and considering laser hair removal, you should postpone it until after the baby is born. To be safe, your doctor will most likely advise you to wait several weeks.
Can laser hair removal cause cancer?
It is a common misconception that laser hair removal can cause cancer. In fact, the procedure is sometimes used to treat certain types of precancerous lesions, according to the Skin Care Foundation Trusted Source.
To treat sun damage and wrinkles, various lasers are used. Lasers used for hair removal or other skin procedures emit very little radiation. Furthermore, the minimal amount is only exacted on the skin's surface. As a result, they do not pose a cancer risk.
Can laser hair removal cause infertility?
It's also a common misconception that laser hair removal can lead to infertility. The lasers only affect the skin's surface, so the minimal radiation from the procedure cannot reach any of your organs.
Talk to your doctor about potential risks if you’re currently trying to get pregnant.
The bottom line
Overall, most people find laser hair removal to be safe and effective. You should avoid having the procedure done near your eyes or during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms following laser hair removal.
Also, keep in mind that the procedure does not guarantee complete removal. You may require additional treatments.
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