By now almost everyone is familiar with laser hair removal, a safe, FDA-approved method of removing unwanted hair by using intense laser light. People often ask about the side effects involved with receiving laser hair removal treatments. Although some patients may experience several short-term reactions there are no known long-term laser hair removal side effects. All the known side effects of laser hair removal are temporary and are nothing to be worried about.

Common Reactions

Some of the more common reactions to laser hair removal treatments include redness, skin irritation and in rare cases scabbing. These are often reactions when the intensity of the laser is set to high for the patient’s individual skin type and are increasingly uncommon. All of these reactions are generally mild and subside within a few days. Occasionally the skin may change pigment slightly (usually to a lighter shade) as a result of a laser treatment, but even this is generally temporary and will wear off naturally. This is often why it is advised that patients do not tan before receiving laser hair removal treatments. In the most rare cases laser hair removal can cause blistering, scarring and changes in skin texture.

Extreme Reactions

Following several precautionary measures can minimize risks of reaction. As well refraining from tanning (both natural and artificial tans), patients should not shave, pluck, wax, or have electrolysis performed for at least a month before any laser hair removal session. These hair removal techniques can make it harder for the laser to penetrate the skin and destroy the follicles. Depending on the clinic, you may be asked to shave once several days before your treatment – ask your provider what their preference is. After a session patients can help prevent the risk of side effects by avoiding direct sun exposure. Protective clothing should be work when outside for several weeks following each session. All treated skin should be treated with care until it is no longer sensitive. Patients should refrain from scrubbing, plucking, or in any way aggravating the treated areas. Patients should bathe with gentle soap and water for a week or so to allow the skin time to recover.

Contact a laser hair removal clinic if you would like more information about possible side effects, or if you would like to schedule a consultation or an appointment.

Laser hair removal has been widely available commercially for less than 15 years, in which time it has become one of the most commonly available laser surgery procedures in the US. Not only is laser hair removal safe and easily tolerable, the results last longer than any other hair removal alternatives, including waxing, plucking, and creams with harsh chemicals. It goes without saying that laser hair removal results last far longer than shaving.

Laser hair removal not only lasts longer than waxing, plucking and shaving, but repeated procedures can lead to permanent hair reduction and permanent hair removal. Laser hair removal performed by trained technicians can spot target hair on almost any part of the body. Rather than merely affecting the shaft of the hair, lasers penetrate the skin and cause permanent damage to the follicle. This leads to reduction in thickness and pigmentation. The procedure is FDA approved and as few as 3 sessions can permanently stunt or completely stop the growth of new hair.

A lot of people hear the term laser and assume that the treatments will be painful and difficult to tolerate. The truth is that most people find laser hair removal treatments a little uncomfortable or annoying but easily tolerable. Some people describe the sensation as being no worse the snap of a rubber band. For patients with sensitive skin, there are local anesthetics available in the office that can reduce any discomfort.

Different skin types and hair types react differently to the effects of the laser depending on the color of the hair and the pigmentation of the skin. A consultation with a laser hair removal provider is your best bet for getting accurate information regarding how many treatments you will need and the results you can expect. You can also ask about how much pain you might experience and your options for anesthetics and you will get a clear picture of exactly which laser hair removal options are best for you.

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