For women, laser hair removal is a common beauty treatment. But is it safe to get laser hair removal while breastfeeding? We will go over the safety of laser hair removal while breastfeeding as well as the procedure itself in this post.
What is laser hair removal?
Targeting the pigment in hair follicles with a highly focused laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) without causing skin damage is what we call laser hair removal. The majority of body parts can benefit from its use, including the face, underarms, bikini area, legs, back, and chest.
Each laser procedure lasts up to an hour, although the majority of people require six to ten sessions to have lasting benefits. Depending on the size of the area being treated, this varies.
How does laser hair removal work?
Selective Photothermolysis is the process behind how laser hair removal works. In other words, laser light is utilized to heat up and specifically kill the skin’s hair follicles. Of course, the skin and hair follicles can absorb some of the light spectra.
Although it may feel uncomfortable for you and have a similar effect to a sunburn, your baby is not at risk from this. (And despite your exposure to light, no one would request a doctor’s letter before your vacation to the beach!)
Is laser hair removal not recommended if you are breastfeeding?
There are various situations where breastfeeding is not advised. The sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, laser light, hyperpigmentation (including suntan), hypopigmentation, and possibly other skin-related problems can all be worsened by some antibiotics and other medications.
(For instance, getting a suntan may make blistering and pigment changes more likely.) But breastfeeding is never included as a contraindication in any of the top expert sources.
What does the research say about the laser hair removal method while breastfeeding?
There are no studies about laser hair removal in breastfeeding. There are no studies on how visiting a sunny beach affects a nursing baby or, to take another close encounter of the mother’s skin with light, how blowing out birthday cake candles affects the mother.
However, a laser hair removal procedure has the same chance of endangering a breastfeeding baby as the previous two incidents can!
Then why all the hype?
Hormone levels are more prone to produce skin hyperpigmentation during the period of pregnancy (melasma). Hyperpigmentation may have undesirable side effects on its own, but it can also make previously undetectable scars obvious.
Hair growth: It’s feasible that the hormones will speed up the hair regrowth that has been lost. It’s possible that waiting till you’ve finished breastfeeding won’t be worthwhile.
Anesthesia: The topical anesthetic applied in conjunction with laser therapy is the subject of the other worry we’ve heard. There’s a possibility that it could give you or your baby an allergic reaction.
Side effects associated with laser hair removal
Minor adverse effects are possible as a result of laser hair removal. Most of them are temporary depending on the skin type. However, if these side effects worsen, see a dermatologist.
Bruising and Redness of the Skin
Common adverse effects of laser hair removal include skin redness and inflammation. You are more likely to experience them if you are having hair removed from a delicate area of your body. The skin may feel sensitive, and you may see edema, perifollicular redness, and skin irritation (swelling).
These side effects are comparable to those you experience following waxing or other hair removal techniques. Within an hour of the operation, the irritation normally goes away. To hasten your recuperation, use an ice pack.
Alteration of Skin Pigments
After the procedure, you can also notice changes in your pigment. People with lighter skin tones might see dark blotches on their skin, whereas people with darker skin tones might see lighter spots. Even though these changes are temporary, if they seem excessively severe, consult your doctor.
Body Crusting
Some individuals may notice crusting of the skin in the afflicted area (due to superficial burns). This problem, however slight, may potentially result in scarring or scabbing. If the skin is dry and the laser probe’s tip is not cool enough to prevent superficial burns, crusting frequently results.
The affected area might be made moisturized to assist avoid this problem. These adverse effects are typically temporary and modest, as previously mentioned. Rarely, one could also encounter some severe adverse effects. In the part that follows, we shall examine them.
Rare side effects of laser hair removal
- Skin pigmentation: Skin pigmentation can change due to tan.
- Excess hair growth: This is quite uncommon. Some people, however, can notice paradoxical hair growth both in the treated area and the surrounding area.
- Blisters: If you expose your skin to the sun too soon after the treatment, you may develop blisters. If the laser hair treatment is not done properly, you may also get blisters.
The American Academy of Dermatology advises obtaining laser hair removal exclusively from licensed dermatologists.
What are alternatives to laser hair removal?
You have numerous more options for hair removal besides using laser treatment. The most preferred options during pregnancy are as follows:
Using wax
While nursing or pregnant women, waxing is possible. Your skin will, however, be sensitive during this period. Consequently, waxing might result in skin bruising.
Electrolysis
No official research has been done to determine the effects of electrolysis on lactation or pregnancy. While Electrolysis is not advised during these phases, though.
Galvanic and thermolysis are two types of current that are used in electrolysis. Galvanic current travels briefly through the client before returning to the device. The terms radio wave, diathermy, high frequency, and short wave are also used to describe thermolysis.
Depilatory creams
These products include substances that can damage your hair. However, there is no data or proof that using them while breastfeeding is safe. Many people think that a mother’s already delicate skin can become irritated by these items.
Shaving
Due to the absence of electrical currents, harsh chemicals, or lasers, it can be a convenient option for women who are pregnant or nursing.
Faqs:
Can I get laser hair removal during pregnancy?
Women who are pregnant should avoid laser treatment until after they have given birth. If you have unwanted facial hair or unwanted body hair stick to traditional hair removal methods such as shaving. To reduce the risk of side effects, avoid using hair removal creams and laser skin treatments.
How soon after giving birth is laser hair removal safe?
Your body requires time to recover after giving birth. Hormones will also need time to adjust after giving birth. This process is unique to each individual. However, we would advise you to wait at least 4-6 months before having laser treatment again for unwanted hair growth.
Is laser hair removal effective while breastfeeding?
Hair loss during pregnancy and breastfeeding may be due to hormonal changes, but waiting until after giving childbirth to start or resume treatment has no impact on the results. During breastfeeding, laser hair reduction is acceptable if it doesn’t involve the nipple or areola.
Final thoughts
There is no research proving that undergoing laser hair removal treatment while breastfeeding is risky. However, to be on the safe side, if you want to do it speak with your healthcare provider!
