FAQs
Laser hair removal does not increase the risk of cancer.
Is laser hair removal risk of skin cancer? ›
The short answer is no. No scientific evidence supports the claim that laser hair removal causes skin cancer. However, if you're curious about the topic, it's essential to inform yourself to make an informed decision about your health and well-being.
Can I get laser hair removal if I had cancer? ›
Hair removal services can be resumed after cancer treatment when the skin integrity has improved to its new normal. For each individual, this could be anything from four weeks to six months or more.
Who should not get laser hair removal? ›
Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
- Are pregnant.
- Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
- Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
- Have keloid scars (raised scars).
- Have or have had skin cancer.
Is laser hair removal good for everyone? ›
In the past, only people with dark hair and light skin could safely have laser hair removal. Today, laser hair removal is a treatment option for patients who have light-colored hair and light skin and patients who have dark skin. Laser hair removal must be performed very carefully in these patients.
Is laser hair removal harmful to the skin? ›
Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include graying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, particularly on darker skin.
Can laser treatment prevent skin cancer? ›
Key Takeaways. BOSTON – New research indicates that simple laser treatments to the skin may help to prevent the development of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are collectively known as keratinocyte carcinoma and are the most common types of cancer diagnosed in the United States.
Who is not a good candidate for laser hair removal? ›
Blond, fine hairs cannot be targeted by the lasers and therefore, cannot be removed with this method. Waxing is a better choice for light colored hair. Individuals with darker skin tones or who tan easily, may have a harder time getting results from laser hair removal.
What happens if I stop laser hair removal after 4 sessions? ›
If treatment is stopped before all of the hair follicles have been destroyed, some may continue to grow. It is important to complete the recommended treatment plan to achieve the best results. Sometimes, the patient sees hairs are thicker and darker after the treatment when they have original light and fair hair.
Is it bad to do laser hair removal every 2 weeks? ›
For facial hair, treatments are typically spaced 4-5 weeks apart, while body hair treatments are generally scheduled 5-6 weeks apart. If you treat the area in every 2 weeks, you are simply treating too soon and essentially just shooting heat against the skin, but not destroying anything.
Certain conditions, such as autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), immunodeficiency states (e.g., HIV) and diabetes, and some medications (e.g., retinoic acid and steroids) may prevent proper healing after a refractive procedure. You actively participate in contact sports.
Will I regret laser hair removal? ›
Regret usually stems from choosing the wrong provider. While laser hair removal itself is rarely regrettable, what can lead to regret is choosing the wrong provider. A cheap, inexperienced clinic may use outdated equipment or incorrect techniques, leading to less effective treatment or even unwanted side-effects.
Why is laser hair removal not safe? ›
Rarely, laser hair removal can result in: pain, discomfort or tenderness. red skin that may last for some time. crusting, blistering, bruising or swelling of your skin.
Is laser hair removal not cancerous? ›
Can laser hair removal cause cancer? It's a myth that laser hair removal can cause cancer. In fact, according to the Skin Care Foundation, the procedure is sometimes used to treat certain forms of precancerous lesions.
Should I laser my pubic hair? ›
' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.
Why is my hair growing back after laser? ›
After laser hair removal, hair is most likely to grow back on the chin, neck, and other areas of the face. This may be due in part to hormonal fluctuations and the reactivation of hair follicles by androgens, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and testosterone.
What type of laser would cause skin cancer if not used properly? ›
It has never been reported that low-energy HeNe laser treatment can cause skin cancer. Although it is not the only cause of the malignancy, it might be one of the factors that caused the burn wound to change to a malignant lesion.
Can you get HPV from laser hair removal? ›
It was found that the history of laser hair removal was positively associated with positive HPV results (OR: 4.353, CI: 95%, 3.157 to 5.989). Conclusions: Laser hair removal was positively associated with positive HPV transmission.
Does laser tattoo removal increase skin cancer risk? ›
“Removal doesn't inherently cause any increased risk of skin cancer or sunburn,” Patel says. That doesn't mean skipping the sunscreen, however.
Is IPL bad for your skin? ›
It is possible for hormonal brown spots to flare up or get worse with IPL treatment. Additionally, you can experience swelling or bleeding in the treatment area. While it is rare, you can get some scarring or an infection. If you have any of these side effects, you should contact your dermatologist.