7 Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal & 6 Precautions!

Laser hair removal is a popular method for getting rid of unwanted hair in the long term.
However, as with any aesthetic procedure, you should be aware that it can cause certain side effects.
Here’s everything you need to know about laser hair removal, how it works, its common side effects and, above all, the precautions you can take to minimize them!  

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a technique that uses laser light to destroy hair follicles, thus preventing hair regrowth. In practice, the laser emits a concentrated beam of light which is absorbed by the melanin present in the hair.
This light absorption then converts the energy into heat, damaging the hair follicle and inhibiting future hair growth.
The beauty of laser hair removal lies in the fact that it is a targeted method, effectively treating hair without affecting the surrounding skin.
Laser hair removal is generally performed in several sessions to reach all hairs, as they go through different growth cycles.
Results can also vary according to skin and hair color!  

Laser hair removal: which skin types are at risk?

Certain skin types are more sensitive to the effects of laser hair removal and require special attention.
This is particularly the case for :

• dark skins, as the melanin in the skin can absorb the laser energy, increasing the risk of burns, discoloration or hyperpigmentation;
• Tanned skin, either naturally or through sun exposure, may suffer similar side effects;
• very fair skin, which can sometimes react with redness and irritation;
• people with sensitive skin or those prone to skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea, asking them to exercise caution as treatment may aggravate these conditions.

Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with our specialists to discuss your laser hair removal project, your skin type and any specific precautions to be taken! You can minimize the risk of side effects while optimizing your laser hair removal experience!  

What are the common side effects of laser hair removal?

Despite its advantages, laser hair removal can still cause certain (usually temporary) side effects, the most common of which are :

• Redness (erythema): Treated skin turns red, similar to a sunburn.
  This redness is due to the absorption of heat by the hair follicles and surrounding tissues.
  It is generally short-lived and disappears within a few hours to a few days;
• Skin irritation: The skin may become irritated, itching or tight;
• Sensation of heat: This sensation of heat is due to the laser energy being absorbed by the skin and hair;
• Swelling (edema): Slight swelling around the hair follicles may occur, but this is a normal and temporary reaction to the destruction of the follicles, and usually disappears quickly ;
• Temporary changes in pigmentation: The skin may become lighter (hypopigmentation) or darker (hyperpigmentation);
• Scabs and blisters: Scabs or small blisters may form on treated areas, in which case scratching should be avoided to prevent infection;
• Paradoxical regrowth: Finally, an unexpected increase in hair growth may occur in areas adjacent to those treated, which may require additional follow-up sessions to correct.

Our advice for managing the side effects of laser hair removal

To minimize the side effects of your laser hair removal sessions, here are a few simple and effective tips to apply:

• Use soothing creams and moisturizing lotions: These products help to calm irritation and reduce redness, offering rapid relief and helping the skin to regenerate (especially creams containing aloe vera or chamomile, to be used soon after laser treatment) ;
• Apply cold compresses: Apply cold compresses to the treated areas to reduce the sensation of heat and swelling.
  Cold compresses help reduce inflammation by constricting blood vessels and providing a soothing sensation;
• Avoid sun exposure: Laser hair removal and sun exposure don’t mix. Try to avoid direct sun exposure and tanning sessions before and after treatment, as treated skin is more sensitive to UV rays, which can aggravate redness and increase the risk of pigmentation changes;
• Don’t scratch: Avoid scratching or rubbing treated areas of your skin, even if they’re itchy, as this can lead to scabbing or infection.
  Keep your skin clean and dry to promote healing;
• Avoid strenuous activity: Do not engage in strenuous physical activity likely to cause excessive sweating for 24 to 48 hours following treatment;
• Consult a professional if in doubt: If side effects persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional or your laser hair removal specialist immediately!