The pursuit of beauty treatments and procedures is common globally, with communities progressing from traditional to modern procedures. From traditional medicine to the latest in medical science, cosmetic procedures help individuals enhance appearance and correct flaws. Hair removal is presently one among the popular procedures chosen by individuals. This helps get rid of unwanted hair from medical precures that are superior to traditional and other procedures. The frequency with which hair regrows make other options less appealing, while laser hair removal offers a lengthier hair free period. It is time to dispel doubts and clear the air about myths and learn all about laser hair removal side effects.
Overview of laser hair removal procedure
As mentioned above, laser hair removal is medical procedure typically performed by a qualified dermatologist. This involves focusing a concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair. The light emitted from the laser device is absorbed by melanin (the pigment in hair). Following this, the energy from the laser works on the hair follicles, delaying regrowth. The effect of the laser is not only on the surface but works within the skin, in the tube-shaped sacs. Laser hair removal is not permanent in nature, though individuals undergoing the procedure benefit from a significantly longer hair free period. It is also important to note that best results are often from the result of multiple sessions and cannot be achieved with a single session in most instances.
The procedure is typically more suitable for individuals with light complexion and dark hair follicles due to the manner in which the emitted laser works. As mentioned above, it latches onto the melanin in the hair follicles, which makes individuals with dark hair better recipients of the procedure. However, this does not exclude individuals with other skin types or hair color. The procedure is perfectly suitable for people with all skin types and hair color, with better or easier results among individuals with light skin and dark hair.
As mentioned above, the procedure is relatively safe with better results and longer periods without unwanted hair. There are possibilities of minor unwanted effects, that are trivial in nature. However, this is a contact procedure, and therefore requires to be performed only by a trained dermatologist with the right kind of equipment. Use of faulty equipment or use by untrained individuals can result in undesirable effects that may be easily visible.
Pain-free procedure with good tolerance among majority of recipients of procedure
Laser hair removal is more of a pain-free procedure, and any possible discomfort experienced is post-procedure. In most instances, the discomfort is mild and similar to that of sun tanning or sun burning experience. Most recipients of the procedure have reported good tolerance and safety during and after the procedure, when performed by competent specialists. The highlight of the procedure is the absence of any long-term risks associated with laser hair removal. Individuals with sensitive skin may undergo a small patch test prior to the procedure. This will help determine if any visible or discernible effects may be experienced when performed on other areas of the body.
Dispelling the myths surrounding the procedure
Before we look at possible side effects, it is time to dispel the myths surrounding the procedure. Unsubstantiated claims are spread electronically that the procedure results in cancer. There is no evidence suggesting that the small amount of radiation attributed to lasers can cause cancer. Another common myth is the claim of infertility as a result of laser hair removal. This is another false claim that is not corroborated by medical science. The penetration of the laser ends at the skin and does not have any impact on any organs of the body, especially organs that are linked to reproductive health.
Short-lived laser hair removal side effects
Here is a compilation of a few common unwanted effects of the procedure. In most instances, the hair removal side effects are mild, trivial and will not require any medical attention. Only in rare instances, there may be a need for some kind of treatment. The most common effect that may be experienced is possible reddish appearance on the skin that may or may not be accompanied by irritation. This is because of the laser works by targeted damage to the hair follicles. As this occurs on the skin, individuals with sensitive skin may experience some kind of reddish appearance, with possible irritation, tenderness or a tingling sensation. There is also the possibility of minor inflammation on the skin, especially where it turns reddish.
The appearance of the skin that has undergone a cosmetic procedure through lasers is typically similar to that of sin that has been waxed/plucked. This is generally dealt with through topical applications to soothe the reaction. In most instances, the reaction experienced immediately on conclusion of the procedure reduces progressively. In the event of a delay in the time taken for the reaction to subside, simple home remedies help. For instance, applying an ice pack on the affected area or dipping into a cool bath can help to considerably mitigate the reaction.
Possible scabbing pursuant to the procedure :-
There is the possibility of individuals experiencing some kind of scabbing upon conclusion of the procedure. This is typically restricted to a very small section of recipients undergoing the procedure. Scabbing is typically the formation of crusts on the skin, that may affect the complexion or the supple appearance of the skin. This is more of an inconvenience and can be easily handled by dabbing a moisturizer. This is mainly because of the heat generated by the laser, which may deprive the skin of moisture, result in possible encrusting. The use of moisturizers on the treated area, immediately after the procedure can help prevent any such effects.
Temporary impact on complexion :-
There is also the possibility of temporary impact on the skin. This is again not a common effect experienced by all recipients but by a small section of users, and depends on the skin’s reaction to the procedure. This also depends on the area of hair removal – for instance if the hair is removed on areas of the skin that are sensitive, or exposed to sunlight, there could be some changes experienced. The usual effects reported in such instances include darkening of skin color which is effectively temporary in nature, with the skin returning back to its original complexion with time. Similarly, individuals with darker skin are likely to experience a slightly lighter skin tone after the procedure, which will again return to normal gradually.
Possible risks associated with the procedure
As outlined earlier, there are possible risks associated with the procedure that are typically the result of a lack of expertise or the use of substandard equipment. Laser hair removal is sometimes performed on the area around the eye to remove possible unwanted hair. If performed without the level of experience or expertise required, there is a possibility of damage to the eye. The skin around the eye is more sensitive, and could therefore present reactions in a stronger manner. Similarly, injury to the eye is a possibility, if proper safety protocols are not used during the procedure.
In addition to the risk of possible injury to the eye, there is also the possibility of recipients experiencing infections. As the procedure is a contact procedure there is the possibility of injury or infection, and this needs to be treated before it spreads. Treatment procedures for skin infections are relatively simple and involve prescription medication. The urge to rely on over-the-counter topical applications to soothe or treat skin infections needs to be resisted. The dermatologist conducting the procedure is the best specialist to recommend a suitable medication.
Pregnant women are advised to put off the procedure during the period of pregnancy. Hormonal changes in the body during various stages of pregnancy may induce possible excessive growth of hair. This may drive the desire among pregnant women to undergo the procedure. However, till date there have been no studies carried out to determine possible undesirable effects of laser hair removal on pregnant women. It is therefore recommended to choose a relatively safer period to undergo the procedure.
Possibility of undesirable effects that are of concern when procedures are performed incorrectly
There is also the possibility of undesirable effects that could be of concern. For instance, a procedure that is not performed correctly can result in a possible risk of outbreak of burns on the skin. Similarly, there is also the risk of possible outbreak of blisters on the skin. The amount of heat generated by lasers is relatively high and this makes it necessary to use it with a high level of precision. The light emitted from the laser is to be targeted in a manner so as to avoid possible laser hair removal side effects. It is also necessary to use suitable cooling methods to ensure that the laser does not singe the skin with the high heat.
The method of hair removal through lasers is not responsible for scarring on the skin. The procedure is scar free and this is essentially one of the reasons why it is a preferred procedure. However, incorrect procedures or lasers handled by an inexperienced dermatologist or unauthorized individual may result in possible scarring. There is also the possibility of scarring as an after effect of the procedure if there is inadequate care. For instance, the heat used on the hair follicles is similar to sun burning and recipients are expected to follow the directions of the specialist. Non-adherence to recommendations may result in possible scarring or outbreak of infection on the skin.
Education: Bachelor’s in Journalism with a minor in Nutrition from Northwestern University. Experience: 15 years as a health journalist, writing for major publications like The New York Times and TIME, with a focus on diet, exercise, and chronic disease management.
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