What Are the Side Effects?
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic treatment to eliminate unwanted hair. This process is generally safe and effective on most skin types, though some individuals may experience minor side effects after their treatment – including pain, redness, or swelling – though most dermatologists provide cooling creams or ointments to alleviate such effects.
Laser hair removal differs from waxing or shaving in that it disables hair follicles to stop them producing new hair follicles; it requires several sessions to achieve results, with subsequent maintenance treatments necessary to keep hair from growing back – however any that do reappear after your treatments likely being thinner, lighter-colored, and less dense than before treatment began.
One of the most frequent side effects from laser hair removal treatments is redness in the treated area. This side effect is caused by heat from the laser that damages follicles, prompting your body to react in kind by creating inflammation and redness that typically fades within days; some individuals even report feeling tenderness post treatment or experiencing tingling sensations in their skin.
Blisters may occur if laser hair removal kits used too aggressively or on sensitive areas of skin. If a blister does form, treat it like any other and refrain from popping it immediately.
Some individuals also experience scabs after laser hair removal, particularly if their laser is too powerful or used on dark skin. Therefore, it is wise to consult a dermatologist about possible side effects before beginning this treatment.
There is no evidence to suggest that laser hair removal causes cancer. Lasers only penetrate the outermost layers of skin and do not reach internal organs. Due to possible increased hair growth in pregnancy groin areas from this treatment method, laser hair removal should not be recommended during this stage of gestation.
Many people turn to laser hair removal as a permanent solution for unwanted hair, but it’s important to keep in mind that it does not completely eradicate all hair; additional sessions may be required in some instances. Also, this treatment may not be suitable for individuals suffering from certain skin conditions – for instance if they have varicose veins this could potentially harm from having laser treatment on this area due to exposure from its light beam.
Are There Any Side Effects Afterward?
Laser hair removal is generally safe when performed by trained and licensed practitioners, though there may still be potential risks for individuals with sensitive skin or health conditions that make the procedure riskier than usual.
As is typical for laser treatments, common side effects include redness, irritation, folliculitis perifollicularis (hair-growth inflammation), and edema (swelling). These symptoms may appear immediately or gradually over multiple sessions; to alleviate them use ice packs or cooling cream as needed while moisturizing regularly with moisturizer.
Pain may also be experienced during laser hair removal treatment; however, it should be less uncomfortable than waxing or shaving due to how heat energy from a laser destroys hair follicles. For those who are very sensitive, their practitioner may apply topical numbing agents or cooling gel prior to beginning the session.
Though rare, some individuals may experience changes to the pigmentation of their skin following laser hair removal. This usually affects those with lighter complexions; their skin may become darker or lighter depending on whether or not a treatment was done initially. These temporary shifts should be discussed with your physician if severe reactions arise.
One potential side effect is the formation of scabs or scars on treated skin. This typically happens when the laser probe becomes dry during treatment, leading to superficial burns on the surface layer of skin. To avoid this side effect, ensure your skin stays properly moisturized after each session, and use sunscreen between treatments as protection for optimal protection of your skin.
Myth 5: Laser hair removal causes infertility. Fact: This claim is false as lasers only produce minimal radiation that affects the surface of skin cells and cannot reach other organs.
People attempting to conceive should refrain from laser hair removal as this procedure could hinder the fertility of their eggs or sperm. Consult a doctor first if taking medication or have genital herpes; those with cold sores, herpes simplex or chickenpox should also stay clear from laser treatment.