Laser Hair Removal Risks

Laser hair removal has become one of the most effective and sought-after cosmetic procedures available today. It should be noted, however, that there are accompanying risks involved. As you'll want to discuss all aspects of the treatment with your dermatologist prior to beginning your procedure, be sure to ask him or her about the chance of these risks. While it is important to glean this information before deciding whether laser therapy is right for you, know too that the risk of complication is minimal.

These possible risks of laser hair removal are as follows:

Unsatisfactory results - Incomplete hair removal is the most common risk experienced following laser treatment. For best results it is recommended that a series of 6 to 8 appointments are scheduled so that all hairs in the affected area can be properly targeted. Unfortunately, even these repeated visits may not bring about the desired results. Individuals with very light hairs or practitioners who use equipment that isn't properly calibrated may be the cause. It is a common misconception that the procedure can cause increased hair growth. This is a complete myth as there have been no recorded incidents of accelerated regrowth after laser hair removal.

Lightening or darkening of the skin - This process, referred to as hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, could last for just a few months or, in extreme cases, be permanent, but usually it is a temporary condition. Darker skinned patients have the greatest risk of skin color change as the lasers used to target hairs on this type of pigment have a higher incidence of skin lightening.

Changes to the texture of the skin - This resulting condition is caused by laser use and is very rare.

Bleeding - If the equipment used is improperly programmed for the patient's particular skin type, bleeding may occur. Since cooling gel, applied prior to beginning the procedure, is a vital part of safe laser use, the absence of this gel could also cause bleeding.

Infection - Preparing for infection following treatment will guard against infection. Though this is a rare occurrence, the presence of blisters after laser use remains a possibility. In this instance, have an antibiotic ointment or cream on hand to safeguard against contamination.

Scarring - Sometimes a patient's skin is more sensitive than the norm and doesn't have the same ability to heal itself. If blistering or burning occurs during or following treatment, these areas can scar over time. During the laser removal process it is possible that the patient will feel unusual pain or burning. If this is the case, it is important that the dermatologist performing the treatment be alerted immediately so he or she can readjust the laser to suit the patients particular skin type.

The possibility of risks from laser hair removal are greatly decreased when a qualified and trained practitioner is used. An experienced laser hair removal clinic will know what type of laser will work best with particular types of skin and be able to adjust the lasers for the best results. The more up-to-date the technology the better the outcome. A doctor who uses newer technology will undoubtedly provide a better class of service and can, therefore, better safeguard against the possible risks.