Laser Hair Removal Side Effects and Risks? Doctor Answers, Tips
Laser Hair Removal: Q&A
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Laser Hair Removal Side Effects and Risks?

Concerned about side effects from LHR. Can I get permanent damage from the laser? what about hyperpigmentation or scars?

15 Doctor Answers | Asked by anon
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Laser hair removal side effects

In the hands of the right physician using the appropriate device set at the correct settings, side effects from laser hair removal present a very minimal risk.  However, if the settings are incorrect any of the following may occur:  blistering, darkening of the skin, erosions on the lip, development of cold sores, redness and persistent pain.  Most of these are temporary and can be avoided by proper preparation of the treated area prior to the procedure being performed.... more
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Risks of Laser Hair Removal

There are many risks to any kind of therapy. laser hair removal is no different and the risks although most unlikely include: 1) skin getting darker or lighter than the surrounding skin 2) blistering 3) scarring 4) bringing out a viral infection- like herpes simplex 5) damaging a tattoo in the area 6) even causing more hair to grow - in very rare cases 7) and the list goes on. A doctor proficient in lasers - although may be initially higher- will be able to minimize and avoid most of the... more
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Laser Hair Removal Risks

Laser hair removal for the face and body has advanced throughout the years. Anytime there is a laser on your skin, there are risks involved. The laser uses heat to paralyze the hair follicle from regrowth. Each visit the lasers heat may be turned higher to target smaller follicles. As long as the technician is well trained with years of experience the patient should do just fine. The main risk is burning the skin. This may happen if the patient... more

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Laser Hair Removal Raleigh North Carolina Laws and Medical Board Guidelines

The primary reasons people have issues with laser hair removal is 1) using the wrong laser for their skin type 2) inadequate or inconsistent cooling, 3) Using an IPL rather than a real laser for hair removal 4) incorrect laser settings 5) laser treatment performed in a setting other than a medical office with the physician owner / operator on site. The lasers we use, the Candela Gentlelase for light to medium toned skin , and the Candela GentleYag for dark skinned individuals,... more
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Laser Hair Removal Side Effects

Hyperpigmentation is a risk with laser hair removal, and that can last 9-12 months. This is an extremely low risk, however, and if it occurs it can be treated by a skin lightening cream. We recommend Pigment Regulator by SkinCeuticals. My wife has been doing laser hair removal for 17 years, and has never seen permanent damage or scars from laser hair removal.
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Hair Transplant Possible Side Effects

Hair transplants are very safe procedures with few side effects. The common side effects are swelling, minor discomfort, numbness, itching, and local inflammation. However, they are not severe and are temporary. Very rarely a patient may experience shock loss, but this is temporary and the hair will grow back in 3-6 months. Bad design of your new hairline may be a risk factor, but this is easily avoidable with an experienced surgeon, supporting staff, and good communication with your surgeon... more
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Laser Hair Removal

Hyperpigmentation or scars are very rare, and almost non-existent when visiting a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon or Board Certified Dermatologist, provided you follow instructions. Nothing is without risk however.
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"Risks of Laser Hair Removal"

There is no doubt that Laser Hair Removal has revolutionized the laser techno era! As with any procedure, it is always smart to weigh the pros and cons. Laser hair removal definitely offers more pros! Not only can you remove unwanted hairs, but you can also satisfactorily address ingrown hairs and the excess pigmentation that comes with them! Side effects are usually an issue only when done improperly or if the patient has used a medication, depilitator or some other... more
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Risks of Laser Hair Removal

Potential risks of laser hair removal include temporary or permanent hypo-pigmentation or hyper-pigmentation. This can occur even when optimal laser treatment parameters are used. Blister formation, scar formation, ulceration, hive-like response, bruising, infection, acne flare, and folliculitis are all possible complications. Darker skinned individuals also have a low risk of paradoxical conversion of lighter, finer hair to darker more coarse hair. While these risks are low, scarring can be... more
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Side effects of laser hair removal

As is true with all laser skin treatments there is a potential for side effects from laser hair removal. Side effects are more likely in people with darker skin types and in freshly tanned skin. The most common side effect would be hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the skin which is usually temporary but can last months or even be permanent. Skin infections, skin lightening and even scarring are all possible though very unlikely. It is important to let your doctor know if you've had a... more
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