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Laser hair removal has become a very attractive option for both men and women nowadays. More and more people have a great desire to shed excess facial and body hair and are considering undergoing the procedure. Because a laser offers comfort, speed and accuracy when used for hair removal, it is extremely popular. In fact, today, it’s the second most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in America. Apparently, the risks have not deterred men and women who want to be hair-free.
Those considering the procedure should understand that laser hair removal is both a cosmetic and medical procedure. Therefore, like any procedure, there are risks and complications involved. However, these can be reduced by asking your doctor for any required medications, and following any pre- or post-procedure instructions he gives you.
Here are some of the temporary and permanent effects of laser hair removal:
Pain
If you are having the treatment done on sensitive areas such as the armpits and the groin/bikini region, pain is inevitable. You may experience some pain both during and after the procedure. Discomfort during the process can often be alleviated by using a local anesthetic or other methods supplied by the clinic. Any discomfort days after the procedure may be remedied through the use of a prescribed pain relief medication.
Swelling
There is a potential risk of some swelling at and around the area that was treated. Depending on what area you have chosen to treat, this side effect can be a problem. This may be relieved through use of topical treatments, so always ask your doctor about the options available to you.
Redness
Redness is probably the least serious side effect of laser hair removal. It may be more of a problem if the area treated is noticeable one, such as directly above your lip. Again, you may be able to resolve this by using a topical treatment prescribed by your doctor.
Blistering
This may be the worst, most painful and most noticeable temporary side effect that comes with having laser hair removal performed. If you would be uncomfortable with people seeing you in that condition, then you may want to plan some vacation time from work to minimize your exposure to others.
Hyper-pigmentation and Skin discoloration
This involves temporary darkening of the skin on the treated area. Apart from basic concealing creams, there may not be any solution that can reduce this side effect until it resolves itself. As long as the treated area is not on your face, it may not be very noticeable either. Skin discoloration is usually permanent lightening of the skin on the treated area. Because the laser is made to attack the pigmentation in dark-colored hair, it can sometimes affect darker skin as well.
Scarring and Burns
Scarring and burns mostly occur when the area is treated by an untrained person, or due to accidental over-treatment. Understand that these risks are very rare if the procedure is done properly. The risk only runs high when the hair removal procedure is not properly performed.
That’s why it’s important to make sure the facility has the latest technology, is overseen by a doctor and uses only licensed medical professionals such as licensed RNs or physician assistants to do the procedure.
Lastly, if you are on any medication, it is important to let your doctor know before the treatment begins. There are some medications that can reduce the effects of the procedure, but that is not a problem. The real possible danger lies in the health risks associated with combining unapproved medications with the hair removal procedure.
AmericanLaser @ September 16, 2009
I’m so happy to see something like this on your site! I know you offer laser hair removal services, but you still take time to tell us about the risks and side-effects. Some company sites only sell sell sell! They don’t care at all about educating people, and giving them adequate precautions about the treatments and services they offer..
It’s refreshing to see a company that actually cares enough to mention that their product can also pose dangers. It just shows that you definitely care for your patients cos you know what to avoid. Keep it up!!
This blog about risks and side-effects are very much helpful to me because I am planning to have my hair removed in the bikini area and it is really good that I was able to encounter this blog because I want to know these things before doing the procedure. On the other hand, it is indeed a danger that not everyone can have the same results that is why it is needed that we need to make sure that the hair laser removal is properly done. I love this post. I hope you can post more!!!
Hello there,
Good blog, I just found it and I’m already a fan.
I am really glad about this blog primarily because it really informs me about the possible risks and side effects of laser hair removal. Most of the things I encounter are laser hair removal companies who sell their services. There is no information given, they just sell their services.