Laser hair removal is a popular method of hair removal that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a non-invasive procedure that uses a laser to target and destroy hair follicles, preventing new hair from growing in the treated area. While it can be an effective way to remove unwanted hair, it is important to understand the potential risks and side effects associated with the procedure. The most common side effect of laser hair removal is temporary irritation and slight redness and swelling in the treated area. These are usually the same effects you might notice after other types of hair removal, such as waxing.
Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blisters, crusting, scarring, or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include greying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, especially on darker skin. Burns, permanent changes in skin color, and scarring can occur if the procedure is not done correctly. To reduce the risk of side effects, it is important to find a doctor who is experienced in using lasers and has a deep knowledge of the skin. The long-term effects of laser therapy, including the possibility of an increased risk of cancer, have not been studied yet. During laser hair removal, a laser emits light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair.
Facial shaving can be done to remove villi and terminal hairs on the cheeks, chin, upper lip, and sideburns. If not done properly, it can also lead to paradoxical hair growth, a condition in which hair grows back thicker after the laser. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to avoid laser hair removal to avoid any health complications. This is mainly due to the fact that no human studies have demonstrated the safety of laser hair treatments during pregnancy. Be wary of spas, beauty salons, or other facilities that allow non-medical personnel to perform laser hair removal. Repeated treatments are often necessary because hair growth and loss occur naturally in one cycle, and laser treatment works best on hair follicles in the regrowth phase.
When the doctor activates the laser, the laser beam will pass through the skin to the hair follicles. If you're interested in laser hair removal, choose a doctor who is certified in a specialty such as dermatology or cosmetic surgery and who has experience in laser hair removal for your skin type. For a more comfortable experience during treatment, it is common to use an anesthetic cream and a cooling gel to help alleviate any discomfort or pain. The contrast between hair color and skin, dark hair and fair skin results in the best results. Laser hair removal on the eyelids, eyebrows, or surrounding areas is not recommended due to the possibility of serious eye damage. If you have a skin reaction right after laser hair removal, your doctor may apply a steroid cream to the affected area. Laser hair treatments offered by a dermatologist or other qualified and trained expert prevent new hair from growing in the follicles. In conclusion, while laser hair removal can be an effective way to remove unwanted body or facial hair, it is important to understand all potential risks before undergoing treatment.
It is essential to find a doctor who is experienced in using lasers and has a deep knowledge of the skin. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid this procedure until further research determines whether any changes may be malignant or not.
