Laser hair removal works by converting light energy to heat that destroys melanin-rich cells that produce hair, but its high intensity may damage other areas of skin as well.
Reputable providers understand how to adapt the device for each patient’s skin type and color, but poor technique, lack of training or inappropriate equipment could result in burns.
Redness
Laser hair removal treatments employ light that targets the pigment of hair. Unfortunately, this can result in inflammation of the skin similar to sunburn and may be quite painful; typically this side effect goes away within a week or two without any intervention from cooling compresses; but using one may ease discomfort during this period of time.
Laser hair removal treatments often result in mild but harmless side effects, like melanin absorption by laser light absorbing it and leaving less pigmentation than before. It is more likely to happen on people with dark skin or hair. While this should not last too long, it is wise to consult your physician or beauty center regarding it as soon as possible.
Once a burn heals, it is essential to use creams and ointments that reduce inflammation and accelerate recovery. Your doctor can advise which ones would work best given its severity and symptoms. Furthermore, it’s especially important to avoid wearing tight clothing, bands, or anything that may irritate the area as much as possible and taking an anti-inflammatory such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if the pain becomes unbearable.
Those affected by laser hair removal burns should take caution not to pop the blisters that form, as this could make the injury more vulnerable to infection. If they become large and start oozing fluid, seek medical advice immediately.
Laser hair removal can be an efficient and safe method to rid yourself of unwanted hair. As with all forms of hair removal such as shaving, waxing or tweezing, however, laser may cause unwanted side effects. If any symptoms appear after receiving laser therapy treatment at a clinic it’s recommended that you speak to one of their professionals immediately.
Yolanda is an independent writer and researcher interested in how medicine, diet and lifestyle interact. She’s fascinated with their effects on our health and enjoys helping people understand them.
Swelling
Some individuals experience swelling after laser hair removal burns due to heat energy from the laser increasing blood flow to affected areas. This is a normal reaction and can be alleviated by placing an ice pack over the area to cool it down or using moisturizer prescribed by their physician; for more extreme cases of swelling it is wise to seek medical help immediately.
Blistering is another symptom that often results from laser hair removal burns. Blisters will usually appear within a week of treatment and should be left alone as they will eventually rupture on their own. If infected blisters develop it is recommended that an antimicrobial cream be used. Keep in mind that blisters shouldn’t be seen as something shameful as they provide vital cushioning against future burns as your skin heals over time.
One may notice that their burnted area develops a crusty or scaly appearance as it reacts to heat from laser treatments, acting as a natural defense mechanism against it. Picking at crusted skin may result in bleeding, scabbing or scarring so applying moisturizer three times daily to the affected area will aid its recovery.
Preexisting conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea can increase skin sensitivity to laser or IPL treatments and lead to laser hair removal burns; so it’s essential that any physician be made aware of them prior to beginning laser or IPL procedures. Tanning should also be avoided for at least one week prior to laser hair removal treatments as well as waxing or plucking in the area where there has been damage done by laser.
Other causes of laser hair removal burns may include shaving too short or using an improper setting on a device, while individuals with darker skin types are particularly prone to experiencing them as the laser often targets pigment instead of hair follicles. If this damage was due to professional malpractice, legal action can be filed against those responsible.
Blisters
Laser hair removal is generally safe for most people; however, just like waxing and shaving methods of hair removal (redness, swelling and blisters may result). If these symptoms appear following laser hair removal it is important to seek medical advice immediately as a doctor will help manage any pain as well as advise how best to care for burns that might have developed as part of this treatment process.
Blistering after laser hair removal procedures is common and usually due to heat damage to the outer layers of skin. This damage occurs when the laser is used improperly and exposes long periods of high temperatures on areas containing significant pigment, such as face, neck or armpits.
If your skin begins to blister, it is crucial not to pop them as this could cause infection and prolong the healing process. Instead, leave the blisters alone and use an ointment approved by a physician or nurse – also keep covered and out of direct sunlight!
Reduced risks associated with laser hair removal can be achieved through using cooling creams and ointments as directed by your doctor or clinic, in addition to wearing SPF sunscreen on affected areas during the day and wearing hats when outdoors.
Risks of blisters can be further minimized by shaving the area well in advance and only visiting reputable clinics for laser hair removal treatments. A patch test should always be completed prior to commencing any laser hair removal treatments as this will indicate whether your skin is suitable for laser removal and if it isn’t, another form may be more suitable; additionally it allows for monitoring effectiveness after treatments have taken place.
Infection
Laser hair removal works by converting light energy to heat that destroys hair follicles. Hair continues to grow back despite this damage; therefore, permanent results require multiple sessions, typically six weeks apart. Each session must also ensure the technician keeps your skin cool during laser therapy to avoid heating pigments in your hair shaft and heating too quickly; they may ice the area, while some lasers include cooling devices in their handpieces for this reason.
Laser hair removal burn infections are rare, but can occur. If it does happen, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic cream or ointment to combat infection and heal damaged areas. Keep the area clean, and don’t apply ointments or other greasy substances directly onto burned areas as this traps in heat and can cause more blisters to form.
Laser hair removal burns can leave blisters that need to be treated carefully, as these provide protection for the deeper layer of your skin while speeding healing time. Blisters should only be broken when large, painful or irritated – in any other cases contact a physician immediately – otherwise, continue treating as directed.
Your doctor will likely suggest covering the affected area with a clean gauze bandage and using any recommended creams or ointments, while staying out of direct sunlight as much as possible and wearing long-sleeved shirts when going outside.
Laser hair removal treatments often cause minor color changes in the area treated, usually manifested as redness or skin that appears slightly darker or lighter than its surroundings. While this side effect can last temporarily, you can minimize its occurrence by keeping the area moisturized after laser sessions.
Scars are very uncommon but can occur as an unwanted side effect of laser hair removal when performed by unqualified practitioners or on sensitive areas. Scars will appear as a scab that will eventually flake away over a 10-15 day period.
