Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal on the Face

As a beauty standard in the 21st century, smooth, hairless skin is seen as a cultural norm. In fact, the practice of hair removal goes back as far as 3000 B.C. Egyptians invented the practice of sugaring, and yet it was not until the year 2000 that the pioneer of laser hair removal received her first patent. It is one of the first truly permanent methods of hair removal, which some women prefer to temporary methods such as tweezing, waxing or shaving. The laser works by delivering a low-energy beam of light through the skin to the hair shaft, where melanin absorbs it. The light then turns into heat, which destroys the hair follicle and reduces future regrowth. Although the method has come a long way in safety and desired effect, there are still some risks to the procedure.

Redness

One of the mildest side effects is erythema, or redness of the skin caused by inflammation. Repeated exposure to the laser irritates the dermis, the layer of skin underneath the epidermis. According to Christine C. Dierickx, M.D., in the article "Laser Hair Removal: Scientific Principles And Practical Aspects," the redness and swelling similar to a sunburned feeling usually lasts one to three hours. It can, however, last up to two or three days.

Crusting and Blistering

Although unlikely, crusting and blistering of the skin can occur. It happens in about 10 percent of cases, reports Julianna Day of lifetoolsforwomen.com. To avoid permanent scarring, do not scratch or pick the treated area and talk to your doctor about prescribing a medicated cream. Blistering and burns are most often reported by women with darker skin tones, because darker skin has greater amounts of melanin and absorbs the light better.

Infection

Infections are rare after laser procedures, but they do occur. They happen when the laser damages the epidermis and can range from bacterial to fungal. An antiviral medication prescribed by your doctor can prevent infections from occurring, as well as competent wound care, if you develop any blisters or burns. The laser hair removal can also trigger Herpes simplex outbreaks, so speak with your doctor first before beginning treatment.

Changes in Pigmentation

There is a chance after treatment to develop hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Both are changes in the color of the skin, most often surrounding the treatment area. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is where the surrounding skin darkens, a reaction to multiple laser procedures. It is reported in 5 percent of patients, normally with tanned or darker skin color. Hypopigmentation is a lightening of the skin, which is seen in white patches and is not permanent, usually fading within six to 12 months. It also occurs more often in tanned skin. Changes in skin pigmentation are mostly reported with the Q and Alexandrite lasers.

Eye Injuries

Exposure to laser irradiation can damage the eye, because of the high concentration of melanin in the cornea. This can lead to ocular damage such as lesions or blindness, and is best prevented by wearing goggles. Your technician should give you a pair of safety goggles and should be wearing them as well, along with any one else in the room. Laser safety goggles can be worn over regular glasses.

Prevention/Solution

Follow the pretreatment instructions of your technician.
With the introduction of the Laser Diode, burning, blistering and scarring have been lessened considerably with an attached cooling device known as a contact Chill Tip. This tip simultaneously cools the skin as it is being heated by the laser, which helps with the pain while minimizing the risk of side effects. The chance of infection can also be minimized by cleaning the Chill Tip with alcohol between patients.
Apply ice or a cold compress to lessen any discomfort and swelling of the treatment site every 15 minutes, three to four times a day for the first two days.

Warnings

Avoid sun exposure, including self-tanning booths, for six weeks after the procedure. Your skin will be especially sensitive to light and heat.
Avoid exercise and excessive exertion for 24 hours after the procedure. Sweating will cause any irritation to worsen.
Be careful if you have a history of keloid scarring, if you are tan, if you have any type of skin condition such as psoriasis or if you have very dark skin. Be sure to give a full medical history to your technician before starting any treatment.

Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology
• South Coast Med Spa
• Skin Care Guide