Before embarking on the therapy, however, people should make themselves aware of some side effects of laser hair removal, as well as some myths that surround the process.
For most people, laser hair removal is a safe way to get rid of hair in unwanted places permanently or for long periods of time.
Is laser hair removal safe?
The majority of people who use it find that laser hair removal is safe and well-tolerated. There do not appear to be any long-term health risks associated with the procedure.
However, some people may experience minor side effects after laser hair removal. People should ask their dermatologist to test how a small patch of skin reacts to the treatment before having it done on a larger area of skin.
People wishing to have laser hair removal treatment should always use a fully-qualified practitioner.
Is laser hair removal painful?
For a couple of days after treatment, the affected skin may become red and tender. Many people describe the sensation as similar to a sunburn. The process itself, however, is typically not painful.
There is a risk of burns and blisters if laser hair removal is not done correctly.
When a qualified practitioner carries out the process, however, burns and blisters are rare.
Laser hair removal uses high-heat lasers.
A practitioner may apply a cooling device to a person’s skin just before the laser is used. This helps to prevent the laser from burning the skin.
Scars
Scars are typically not a side effect of laser hair removal. However, if the practitioner makes an error, scarring can occur. This should not be an issue with most qualified practitioners.
Scars may also form if people do not care for the treated area correctly afterward.
They should treat the affected skin as if it had been sunburned to avoid further damage. This means keeping it moisturized, protected from light, and checked regularly for signs of infection.
Experts do not recommend laser hair removal for people who are pregnant. This is because scientists have not carried out any human studies that prove the safety of laser hair removal during pregnancy.
Pregnancy causes hormonal changes in a person’s body. This can commonly cause extra hairs to grow in unwanted places. While this growth can be embarrassing, the hairs often go away on their own.
If the hairs do not go away unaided, a person may want to try laser treatment after their pregnancy. Doctors may ask them to wait a few weeks after giving birth before they have the treatment.
Myths about laser hair removal
There are several unfounded myths surrounding laser hair removal:
Laser hair removal causes cancer
The myth that laser hair removal therapy can cause cancer is unfounded. The lasers are specially designed to pass through the skin cells and target only the hair follicles deep within the skin.
The lasers used in laser hair removal do produce a small amount of radiation. However, this radiation is not thought to be harmful, and there is no evidence that laser hair removal therapy causes skin cancer.
Laser hair removal causes infertility
Again, there is no evidence that laser hair removal causes infertility. The lasers only penetrate the skin and do not reach or affect any other organs. Laser hair removal is usually safe, even in sensitive areas such as the groin.
Home kits are just as good as seeing a dermatologist
Home laser removal kits are available for people who want to remove unwanted hairs without going to a dermatologist.
Many people may experience modest results from using these kits, such as lighter or finer hairs. However, home kits are not the same as the powerful medical devices used by qualified practitioners.
When to see a doctor
Anyone experiencing adverse reactions to laser hair removal should consider seeing their doctor. They can usually manage symptoms such as redness and swelling at home, but they should always report signs of skin infections to a doctor or dermatologist
Reporting symptoms early allows for quick treatment and may help prevent any permanent changes.
Anyone trying to become pregnant should speak to their doctor before getting laser hair removal. A doctor can advise on other options, as laser hair removal often requires multiple sessions that should not be undertaken during pregnancy.
Outlook
Laser hair removal is safe and effective for most people when performed correctly. It may take multiple treatments to remove unwanted hair completely, and permanent hair removal is not always guaranteed.
Some people may experience minor side effects after treatment, such as redness, swelling, and irritation and can usually treat these at home. Anyone who notices the signs of a skin infection should see a doctor.
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