Laser hair removal doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal. Some hair could be resistant to the laser treatment or grow again after treatment – although the new hair growth might be finer and lighter in color.
Possible laser hair removal side effects include:
- Mild swelling around the hair follicles
- Pigment changes may occur, especially in those with darker skin – these changes are usually temporary
- Slight redness of the skin
- Temporary irritation resulting in blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture
Special care must be taken for those with darker skin. A less intensive laser should be used to avoid damaging the outer skin.
Anyone who has tanned, used a spray tan or gone to a tanning booth should wait until the tan has faded as the pigment in the skin absorbs the laser light and reduces the effectiveness of the treatment.
These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It's important that you address all your questions directly with your laser hair reduction provider.
FAQs
Laser hair removal can be dangerous in inexperienced hands. Burns, permanent changes to your skin color, and scars can occur. You can greatly reduce the risk of possible side effects by having your treatment performed by a medical doctor who is extremely skilled in using lasers and has in-depth knowledge of the skin.
Are there any dangers to laser hair removal? ›
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.
Is laser hair removal harmful in the long run? ›
The procedure also isn't linked to any long-term side effects. Still, discussions about the side effects of laser hair removal abound. Although temporary and minor side effects can occur after the procedure, other effects are rare. Beyond that, any claims about links to your long-term health are unfounded.
Can you catch anything from laser hair removal? ›
Infection- Although infection following laser skin procedure is unusual, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections can occur. Herpes simplex virus or zoster infections can occur following a laser treatment.
Is laser hair removal safe down there? ›
The laser targets the hair follicle without impacting the surrounding skin, and it's FDA-approved as safe and effective for all skin tones. Studies show that laser hair removal is extremely effective for the bikini area, only outperformed by treatments on legs, arms, and underarms.
Do people 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.
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.
What are the disadvantages of laser treatment? ›
Laser therapy can result in misdirected or excessively intense burns, bleeding from the choriocapillaris, damage to macular and other ocular structures, and breaks in Bruch's membrane.
Can laser hair removal cause HPV? ›
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.
Can laser hair removal cause nerve damage? ›
Professional Laser Machines: A Cornerstone of Safety
This rigorous oversight guarantees that the lasers used in professional settings are not only effective but also safe for cosmetic procedures, minimizing the risk of complications, including nerve damage.
Fact — Laser hair treatments don't work as well, and sometimes not at all on very fair or blond hair. The laser hair removal treatment requires pigment in the hair, or the beam of light will not reach the hair follicle. Hair that is gray or blond has less pigment, which can make laser hair removal ineffective.
Why can't you shower after laser hair? ›
It's recommended to wait at least 6-8 hours after a laser hair removal session before taking a shower; which should be cold or very mild. This gives the skin time to cool down and for any redness or swelling to subside. At Skin Perfection; London's Top Laser Hair Removal Clinic; we recommend you to avoid hot showers.
Does pubic hair fall out after laser? ›
Immediately after the procedure the treated area might appear red and swollen. This is a normal response and usually subsides within a few hours. 7-14 days after the procedure the hairs will begin to fall out. Now, this doesn't mean the hair won't ever return.
Where does laser hair removal hurt the worst? ›
The underarms are among the most painful areas of the body to undergo laser hair removal because the skin is so thin. This isn't necessarily the case for the rest of your arms, though, where the pain is much milder.
Are there any risks with a laser is laser harmful to humans? ›
Laser therapy can result in misdirected or excessively intense burns, bleeding from the choriocapillaris, damage to macular and other ocular structures, and breaks in Bruch's membrane.
Is laser hair removal bad radiation? ›
Non-ionising radiation is safe. This means, for most, laser hair removal is safe. Long-term effects of laser therapy, including the possibility of an increased risk of cancer, have not been studied.
Can laser hair removal affect your fertility? ›
No evidence suggests that laser hair removal causes infertility. The procedure only affects the surface of the skin and does not reach reproductive organs. However, if you are actively trying to conceive, it is always wise to discuss potential risks with your doctor.
