Laser Hair Removal Side Effects

Laser hair removal is a safe and effective choice for most people but like anything else, you must be aware of possible risks and side effects. The complications of laser hair removal are rare if administered by an experienced and skilled technician, therefore it is important to do your research, choose a reputable clinic and check out the technician’s credentials.

The most common side effects of laser hair are temporary and minor. Normal side effects of laser hair removal can include pain, redness, itching and swelling. This often depends on how sensitive your skin is.

Firstly, the pain experienced during a laser hair removal treatment can vary according to the area being treated and your own pain threshold. The sensation is described as a rubber band snapping against your skin, not pleasant, but not unbearable. Like they say, no pain, no gain. It is well worth a little discomfort if you can kiss your razor and waxing sessions good bye.

Most likely your skin will be red and swollen after a laser treatment. This is most evident immediately after the treatment but subsides reasonably quickly, depending how sensitive your skin is. At the most it can last 1-3 days.

Some people experience itchiness during or after a laser treatment, but again this is temporary and usually dissipates quickly.
In rare cases more serious side effects can occur such as burning, bruising, bleeding, infection and changes in skin pigmentation. You should consult your technician or doctor if they persist.

Burning of the skin can occur if a laser hair removal treatment is performed improperly or the wrong type of laser for your specific skin and hair type is used. Discussing your goals, learning about your technicians qualifications and the type of laser used will help prevent this. Also burning of the skin can occur if you don’t shave the area of surface hair prior to your session.

Those with sensitive skin and are prone to bruising, may get bruises in the treated area. Some people find that applying ice packs or cool compresses post treatment can lessen bruising.

Laser hair removal can irritate hair follicles which can cause slight bleeding. As a result of the bleeding scabs can appear. Usually this only happens if an area is being over treated. Again, discuss your goals with your technician and make sure that you wait the proper amount of time between sessions.

Minor infection can occur if treated areas aren’t cleaned and disinfected properly prior and post treatment. Infection is rarely serious and can be treated with antibiotics and topical ointments.

Some people may have an allergic reaction to the hair removal gel used with certain lasers or to topical analgesic numbing creams. If you are concerned do a patch test first and wait 24 hours to see if there is an adverse reaction.

Some people can experience skin discoloration in the treated area. If the laser is absorbed by the skin rather than the hair follicle, it can decrease or increase melanin production, which can lighten or darken skin tone (hypo-pigmentation or hyperpigmentation). This can occur by using the wrong type of laser or not using the proper setting for the treatment area and client’s skin type. Tanned and dark skinned clients seem to be at a higher risk for this occurrence.

Additionally there are a few other side effects to keep in mind for those with a history of some conditions.Those who have had cold sores or an incidence of herpes simplex, for example, you can have an outbreak after a laser treatment. Your physician can provide medication before to your treatment to avoid an outbreak. If you are prone to keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring (raised scars) you should opt for a less aggressive laser treatment approach. Options can be be discussed with your technician. Likewise, those who suffer with psoriasis or vitiligo, could possibility get more lesions in the treated areas. Finally if you are taking acne medication (like isotretinoin) it is recommended that you wait a year prior to having laser hair removal due to the possibility of scarring.

Definitely, the best way to avoid any complications or side effects is to be well informed and choose your clinic wisely. Discuss your hair removal goals, concerns and options with your technician prior to your treatment. They should analyze your skin and hair type to determine if they can successfully and safely meet your goals. They should inform you of any risks you may be susceptible to. In general, the side effects are minimal and most people go back to work or their regular activities immediately after a treatment. Like any treatment however, you should always be cautious, well informed and pay attention to any unusual reactions.