Laser Hair Removal Side Effects - Know the Facts

Laser hair removal has been shown to be a very safe procedure on thousands of patients. However, like any other medical procedure, be sure to discuss the possible risks and side effect with your doctor so that you know what to expect following the procedure. Choosing a qualified and experienced doctor is one of the most important things you can do to lower any possible risk of complications. Luckily, the side effects associated with hair removal using lasers are very temporary, and not likely to have any long-term effects.

The side effects of laser hair removal you may experience include:


Pain during treatment. During the procedure, you will experience a slight stinging pain as the laser is being used. However, it should not be overly painful. Particularly if you are having the laser procedure done in a sensitive area of your body, ask about numbing creams or pain relief options. Once the laser procedure is over, the pain should subside. You'll be able to return to your normal activities immediately after you leave the doctor's office.
Redness and swelling. This is quite common after laser hair removal. Usually lasting a day or two, you can apply ice to the area, as well as aloe creams. The redness and swelling should start to subside as soon as the procedure is over, and be completely gone within a week.
Blistering, burns, or scabbing. These side effects are very rare. They can usually be attributed to an inexperienced doctor or using the wrong settings on the laser device. If you undergo laser hair removal while your skin is tanned, you also increase your risk. Patients with darker skin also have an elevated risk for these side effects, because the lasers used to treat their hair are stronger. Keep the area moist with petroleum jelly (Vaseline), and use a medicated ointment, particularly if open areas in the skin develop.
Pigment changes. The treated area of the skin may become darker or lighter after the laser hair removal procedure. Within a few months, it should return to your normal skin color. Loss of freckles or lightening of moles may also occur, and tattoos in the treated area could become lighter or darker.

To lower your risk of laser hair removal side effects, do not tan before your laser hair removal appointment. Select an experienced doctor to perform the procedure, and make sure the doctor is fully trained in the specific laser technology to be used in your situation. Any side effects you experience should be temporary, so be sure to tell your doctor if they persist or grow worse over time.

Louise Bently is the author of Home Laser Hair Removal Systems which has more advice about the many aspects of laser hair removal at home. Discover more about how to minimize laser hair removal side effects.

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