5 Common Side Effects Of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal has been proven to be a great way to remove hair for a long period of time and, for some people, it goes away for good (and for those for whom it is not permanently removed, it often reappears in a lighter, finer form). Having said that, there are usually a number of side effects that are associated with laser hair removal that are quite common. Usually, your laser technician will be more than happy to discuss these issues with you. Throughout the course of this article, you will learn about 5 common side effects of laser hair removal.
Burns
During any laser related procedure, you will run the risk of receiving burns. Laser hair removal is no exception to the rule. It should be noted that there are several factors that come into play when the issue of burns is brought up. First and foremost is the fact that people with darker skin are more likely to receive burns. This is due to the fact that the pigment of the skin will absorb the heat of the laser, causing burns or general redness. Burns only occur in rare amounts of cases, and these burns tend to be mild and will heal quite well given time.
Hyper-pigmentation and Hypo-pigmentation
The lasers used in hair removal have been known to occasionally cause hyper-pigmentation or hypo-pigmentation. Hyper-pigmentation is a darkening of the skin. This is due to the fact that the laser used in such treatments stimulates melanin in the body, causing an effect that is much like a suntan. Hypo-pigmentation is the opposite of hyper-pigmentation. It will cause the skin to become lighter in tone. This is due to the fact that in some cases, the laser can inhibit the production of melanin, which will cause the skin to lose pigment. Usually pigmentation discoloration is mild and not noticeable unless you are looking for it.
Pain
Pain is perhaps the most common side effect that occurs due to laser hair removal treatment. There is usually a series of sharp pains, and perhaps itching, that are associated with the area of the body that has received the laser hair removal treatment. Usually, this pain is minimal. In addition, before the procedure your laser hair removal specialist will use special cream to help numb the pain, as well as apply this cream after the procedure.
Eye Injuries
Although there are no documented cases of eye injuries during laser hair removal, the potential to damage your eyes is still there. That is why it is important to be concerned with your own safety and discuss this matter with your laser technician before going into the procedure. He or she should go over any and all safety issues with you, including issues related to the eye. If any procedure is being performed on your face, it is imperative that you wear the appropriate eye protection that should be supplied by your technician. In addition, if you are having the treatment performed anywhere else on your body and would feel comfortable with eyewear, your technician should supply that for you.
Itching
Aside from some experience of pain, perhaps the most common side effect associated with the laser hair removal procedure is itching. You might feel particularly itchy in the area in question after the procedure. It is imperative that you do not scratch the area because scratching can cause infections or contact dermatitis. Various over-the-counter salves can be applied that can relieve the itching sensation.
Laser hair removal procedures are one of the best things you can do for yourself, and one of the best investments you can make, if you are not interested in hair growing in a specific portion of your body. However, it is important to be aware of a number of the side effects associated with this procedure. If you think laser hair removal might be right for you, then make an appointment with a clinic like Jordan Valley Dermatology.
