Laser Hair Removal Dangers
Laser hair removal is a method approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for permanent hair reduction. As long as you put yourself in the hands of a skilled practitioner, such as a dermatologist, laser hair removal poses very little dangers aside from temporary discomfort and post-treatment redness. However, there are certain dangers to be aware of before you decide laser hair removal is for you.
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How It Works
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Laser hair removal is a procedure performed by a doctor who specializes in the area of hair removal---usually a dermatologist. The procedure uses a laser to target the melanin in the hair follicle. The laser hits the follicle and destroys it by heat without damaging the skin. Small areas, such as the upper lip, can be treated in minutes, while larger parts of the body, such as the back, can take several hours. Multiple laser treatments are usually needed (between six and eight, according to the Mayo Clinic) to see a substantial reduction in hair.
Discomfort
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There is the danger that laser hair removal will result in discomfort during the actual treatment process. A numbing gel or lotion may be used prior to the treatment to mitigate pain. Many patients experience the most discomfort during the first treatment session, when their hair is most dense. After the treatment, the skin may be red and inflamed and sometimes may scab and crust over, requiring use of an emollient such as Vaseline. Bleeding during laser hair removal is extremely rare, as is blistering, scarring and changes in skin texture, as long as the procedure is performed by a skilled physician.
Pigment Changes
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Sometimes hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) is noted after laser hair removal, but this is generally temporary. People with darker skin tones are most likely to note lightening of the skin after treatment.
Hair Growth
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After laser hair removal, new growth in the area may be lighter in color and finer. But sometimes new hair growth is noted in areas just adjacent to the treated area. These must be treated as well with additional laser therapy sessions.
Warning
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If there is any true danger to laser hair removal, it is that it can result in disappointment when the desired results are not obtained. According to the Mayo Clinic, the best candidates for this procedure have fair skin and dark, coarse hair. Those with white, fair or red hair won't notice any results. Even the best candidates for laser hair removal may not get the results they desire. Before you invest in this procedure, which costs around $387 per treatment as of August 2009, consult with your doctor to determine if this method of hair removal will work for you.
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