There are possible laser hair removal side effects that are either temporary or permanent. Temporary effects usually resolve themselves within a few days but some may take months.
For most people laser hair removal is very tolerable. It is often compared to having a rubber band snap at the skin. However, for your laser hair removal safety, you will likely be given a patch test to see how your skin will respond.
For most people laser hair removal is very tolerable. It is often compared to having a rubber band snap at the skin. However, for your laser hair removal safety, you will likely be given a patch test to see how your skin will respond.
During the procedure, there is a slight stinging. However, for some laser hair removal may be very painful. A lot depends on the area where the hair is to be removed, the sensitivity of the skin and the individual threshold for pain. During the procedure a topical anesthetic numbing cream such as EMLA is usually applied. These numbing creams may include ingredients such as benzoncaine and lidocaine to reduce the sensation in the nerve endings. Taking pain relief medication can also be helpful. Be sure to discuss this in advance with the physician or technician.
Swelling and tender skin are also potential laser hair removal side effects. This is normal after the procedure for most people and will usually resolve itself within a few hours to a few days. Cold compresses and creams can help alleviate the discomfort. If blistering has occurred a topical antibiotic may be used to help the area heal.
Unfortunately though rare, laser hair removal side effects may be permanent. These may include permanent skin discoloration and scarring. If the skin absorbs more energy from the laser then it should the pigment is effected and paler skin may result. Conversely this may also cause the area to overheat resulting in blistering and potential scarring. This is more likely if an inexperienced technician is performing the procedure but can happen even if the most experienced physician is. Changes in the hair and skin structure and the hair are also possibilities.
To help prevent the possibility of laser hair removal side effects prepare carefully for the procedure.
~ Seek out a well trained laser specialist and make sure they are fully aware of your medical history.
~ Avoid waxing, plucking or electrolysis for several weeks prior to the procedure.
~ Do not get a tan as this may effect the pigment in the skin.
~ Do not wear deoderant, powder, sunscreen etc. on the day of the treatment. They may decrease the laser’s effectiveness and potentially cause an allergic reaction.
~ Avoid exercise for a day or so after the procedure as perspiration may irritate the hair follicles.
~ Avoid sun exposure for a few days after the procedure.
~ Treat the skin gently. Don’t pick at it.
~ Avoid waxing, plucking or electrolysis for several weeks prior to the procedure.
~ Do not get a tan as this may effect the pigment in the skin.
~ Do not wear deoderant, powder, sunscreen etc. on the day of the treatment. They may decrease the laser’s effectiveness and potentially cause an allergic reaction.
~ Avoid exercise for a day or so after the procedure as perspiration may irritate the hair follicles.
~ Avoid sun exposure for a few days after the procedure.
~ Treat the skin gently. Don’t pick at it.
Be sure to discuss the procedure with your treatment facility for the best laser hair removal information for you.
