Folliculitis and Laser Hair Removal: Options for treating folliculitis.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD answers: Laser hair removal for folliculitis?

Unfortunately from constant shaving and what I guess is sensitive skin, I am now having a problem with folliculitis on my legs, and I was thinking of having laser hair removal. I have scars from the folliculitis that have been there for 3 years, and they just don’t heal away. Therefore, I am not really sure if laser hair removal will leave me with good results. I'm afraid it would leave more marks on my body. Is laser hair removal safe for folliculitis treatment?  Is more scarring likely?


Raffy Karamanoukian, MD
10 months ago
By Raffy Karamanoukian, MD - Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

Folliculitis is an inflammatory condition caused by chronic injury, allergy, or infection.  It is most commonly associated with shaving in the legs.

Laser hair removal will remove the irritating process of shaving by minimizing the troublesome hair follicles and shafts. However, that is not the whole treatment.  You should also consider a course of salicylic acid or glycolic acid exfoliative pads found on the market.  Pore Clarifying Pads are one example we offer in our office.

Also, consider a topical skin lightening cream to eradicate the pigmentation associated with folliculitis.

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