Should go away

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD answers: Laser Hair Removal Burns

Hi there,

I had a treatment for laser hair removal a yesterday and am very worried i may be permanently scared or discoloured. I guess the Alexandrite laser was set at too high!

I have attached a picture and would love to get some advice on how bad the damage is and what i can do to get back to normal if possible. Unfortunately it seems anyone with or without training can perform the treatment. I wish i knew this before and hope I am not damaged for life.

Kind Regards, .


Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD
8 months ago
By Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD - Virginia Beach Dermatologist

Unfortunatley burns can part of the risk of laser hair removal.  Your burns seem to appear very superficial which leads me to believe that they will heal pretty well in time.   It is very important that you and your Dr. (or esthetician or whom ever is treating you..) discuss all your history to determine your "fitzpatrick scale" skin type so your settings are correct.  If you have even a slight slight suntan or sunburn prior to treatment it greatly increases your chances of getting burned.   It is important that you keep aquaphor or a prescription called biafine on the burns so they heal properly.  Please limit your sun exposure.  I do believe in time you will be just fine. 

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