Laser Hair Removal Dangers are often not known or understood. We will explore what Laser Hair removal is, what are the risks and the possible side effects when considering laser hair removal treatment.
A person considering laser treatment as an option for dealing with unwanted hair needs to be properly informed before making a decision if laser hair removal is right for them.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment – Cosmetic or Medical Procedure.
Some people think that laser hair removal treatment is only a minor cosmetic procedure and that is has no risk. However, laser hair removal needs to be considered as a medical procedure. With all medical procedures there is an element of risk to the patient. There will also be a degree of danger and possible side effects to laser hair removal treatment.
Why is Laser Hair Removal so popular?
In recent year laser hair removal has become extremely popular and the technology is being improved all of the time. The risks are not well understood and do not deter anyone who has experienced the embarrassment of visible unwanted hair growth. It is important to understand the science behind laser hair removal method and the possible risks and side effects.
What is the Science behind Laser Hair Removal?
Laser used for hair removal are not actually a laser in the truest sense. Laser hair removers are actually Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) epilators and use xenon flash lamps that emit full spectrum light. The light enters the skin and the hair follicles to emit a special frequency of wavelengths that damage the hair follicle enough that it produces less hair or can no longer produce hair. Read more about how laser hair removal works.
The intense pulsed light used in the laser hair removal procedure targets the high pigmented colours of the hair and skin. Laser hair removal works best on light skin with dark hair and if you are planning to try laser hair removal treatment then it is best stay out of the sun at least a few weeks prior to the procedure to reduce the possibility of tanning your skin. If you have naturally dark skin then it is best to speak to your laser hair technician about if laser hair removal is right for you.
Laser Hair Removal Risks and Side Effects.
Changes in skin color. Laser hair removal can cause hypo-pigmentation and hyper-pigmentation of the skin. In simple terms this means that the skin effected by the laser treatment can go lighter or darker for a period of time. This can vary between individuals but usually lasts anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
Not everyone will experience this and is best to have a consultation with your doctor and with the laser hair removal technician to find out if your skin type is prone to colour changes when treated with laser technology.
Scarring.
Some people experience minor scarring. In most cases the scarring goes away within six months but there are some horror stories of laser hair removal gone wrong that have left some patients with permanent skin scarring.
It is really important to go to a reputable clinic for your laser hair removal as they will ensure you are fully informed and understand the possible risks and side effects of the treatment.
Infections.
Minor infections in and around the laser treated areas are common. These minor infections can usually be managed at home by treating the affected area with an antiseptic creams and consulting with your doctor. When the infection won’t heal on its own then you must visit your doctor for advice and an anti-biotic medication may be prescribed.
You must also tell your doctor and laser technician if you have ever had herpes simplex (cold sores). You may need to go onto an anti-viral medication before or immediately after your laser treatment to ensure there are no post treatment complications related to herpes simplex.
Medications.
There is real danger in mixing medications and laser treatment. Some medications can cause dangerous reactions immediately after laser treatments.
You must discuss all medications you take with your doctor and laser technician before proceeding with your laser treatment. Certain medications can also reduce the effectiveness of laser treatment and in some cases even make the treatment useless.
Laser Hair Removal Dangers – Final Thoughts.
So, there we have covered Laser Hair Removal Dangers, and it is suggested that you consider laser hair removal as a medical procedure and not just a cosmetic fix to get rid of unwanted hair growth. You can read more about side effects and how to avoid them, when opting for laser hair removal.
We have briefly touched on the science of laser hair removal and have explored some of the risks and side effects associated with this type of treatment. It is always best to be fully informed and we suggest that you complete some research and ask plenty of questions when considering laser treatment as a hair removal option for you.
