Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair from the body, but there are some potential long-term health risks associated with it. In this article, we will discuss the potential risks and side effects of laser hair removal, as well as how to minimize them. The procedure of laser hair removal is generally considered safe and does not have any long-term side effects. However, there are some temporary and mild side effects that may occur after the procedure.
These include redness, swelling, and itching around the treated area. In rare cases, blisters, crusting, scarring, or other changes in skin texture may occur. Additionally, some people may experience greying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, especially on darker skin. It is important to note that laser hair removal does not always result in permanent hair removal. Lasers are designed to target dark hair follicles deep in the skin, so people with blonde, reddish, or gray hair may not see much change.
If you have a skin reaction after laser hair removal, your doctor may apply a steroid cream to the affected area. Pregnant women should be aware that there have been no human studies conducted to prove the safety of laser hair removal during pregnancy. Therefore, it is best to avoid the procedure during this time and speak with your doctor about other options. Additionally, people who have tanned or gone to a tanning booth should wait until the tan has faded before undergoing laser hair removal, as the skin pigment absorbs laser light and reduces its effectiveness. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers homemade laser hair removal devices to be cosmetic rather than medical devices. This means that they do not undergo the same level of scrutiny as other medical devices.
However, the radiation emitted by these devices is not thought to be harmful and there is no evidence that laser hair removal therapy causes skin cancer. When undergoing laser hair removal treatment, the doctor will activate the laser which will pass through the skin to target the hair follicles. For most people, this is a safe way to remove unwanted hair from certain areas permanently or for extended periods of time. However, it is important to note that there are no comprehensive studies that compare the effectiveness of homemade laser hair removal devices with those used in a doctor's office. Additionally, damaging hair follicles with a laser can pose a risk of infection. Overall, laser hair removal is generally considered safe and effective for most people. However, it is important to be aware of potential long-term health risks associated with this procedure and take steps to minimize them.
Speak with your doctor about any concerns you may have before undergoing laser hair removal.
