Did you know that laser hair removal is the most practiced esthetic hair removal treatment around the world? The laser hair removal market will reach over USD 3.6 Billion by 2026! It means a large number of people are preferring laser hair removal over other hair removal techniques.
But is it worth it? Is laser hair removal safe enough? Let’s find the answer so that you can make the right decision.
So, is laser hair removal safe?
Yes. Laser hair removal doesn’t show any risks or severe side effects. The data collected in a study has shown that there is a very less number of people who have experienced side effects from laser hair removal.
The laser beam is safe and doesn’t affect the skin. It only acts on hair follicles to destroy or damage them. This hair follicle is now unable to produce any other hair. There’s no need for anesthesia during the whole process. But your doctor might apply a numbing cream so that you feel comfortable during the procedure. The aftercare also doesn’t require to have any medicines.
So, overall the procedure is safe and simple. You should just be very cautious while choosing a clinic for the treatment. If you’re a local in Pakistan then find the best laser hair removal in Islamabad that has expert doctors and modern equipment with a hygienic environment. You’ll see the best results of the treatment if done by a professional.
That said, there are a few side effects that anyone can experience. But the chances are odd and usually, the effects go away on their own.
Side effects of laser hair removal
As said, there is very little chance that you might notice a side effect. Let’s have a look at minor and severe side effects.
Minor side effects
The laser hair removal can show some side effects right after the treatment. These go on their own within 24 to 48 hours. You should continue your aftercare routine and follow your doctor’s advice religiously. The two most common side effects are:
Redness and irritation
Just after the treatment, you might notice redness and irritation. This would feel the same as after waxing. You can apply an ice pack to soothe the treated area. This redness and irritation go away within 24 hours.
Although the odds are very less but if you feel severe irritation and swelling as well then consult your doctor for advice.
Skin Color Changes
Soon after the treatment, you might observe lighter or darker spots on the treated area. If you have a light skin tone, you might get darker spots; the opposite is true for darker skin tone.
Just like redness and irritation, these spots also go away on their own after a couple of days, provided you’re avoiding sum and following an aftercare routine.
Severe side effects
Extreme side effects are very rare, but you should be aware of them. You can increase your chance of developing severe side effects if you choose an amateur to do the job. These side effects include:
- Sudden and rapid hair growth in the area that has been treated
- Changes in skin texture and color
- Scarring
- Skin crusting
- Blisters
The risk also increases if you don’t follow an aftercare routine and expose the treated area to sunlight.
You can avoid all these side effects if you choose an advanced skin clinic with professionals, follow a proper aftercare regime, and consult your doctor immediately if something feels wrong.
Common concerns
So overall the laser hair removal treatment is safe. But there are a few concerns that might come in your way before getting the treatment. You should know about the answers to these concerns so that you can make a better decision.
Is Laser hair removal safe during pregnancy?
There are no studies that prove the safety of laser hair removal during pregnancy. So, it’s better not to take any risks and wait until your delivery.
Does laser hair removal cause infertility
It’s a myth that laser hair removal treatment causes infertility. The laser beam is strong enough to destroy the hair follicle but it can’t penetrate the organs of your body. That said, if you’re trying to conceive then you might have to ask your doctor before getting laser hair removal treatment.
Is there a risk of developing cancer?
Another myth is that laser hair removal can produce free radicals in the body, causing cancer. In fact, technology is being used to treat precancerous lesions. The laser beam isn’t that strong to penetrate the body and cause a disturbance. It’s totally non-invasive and only acts on the surface of the skin.
Can laser hair removal cause alopecia?
No. The laser beam only works on the area that has to be treated. It’s a myth that if you get laser hair removal treatment on your back, you might get bald due to its effect on your scalp. That won’t happen. Laser hair removal is completely safe to remove hair from your back as well.
The Bottom line
Laser hair removal is one of the most popular hairs removal techniques. But is it safe? Does it pose any health hazards? Laser hair removal is totally safe and there are very few risks involved. Minor side effects can occur but they are uncommon. Severe side effects are very rare. You should avoid laser hair removal during pregnancy, else you’re good to go and get rid of unwanted hair, forever.
