What's the best laser hair removal treatment for sensitive skin?

What's the best laser hair removal treatment/device for sensitive skin?

3 answers to “What's the best laser hair removal...”

A: Laser Hair Removal for sensitive skin

Harold J. Kaplan, MD

Unfortunately, the correct treatment for your skin is based on the color of the skin and coarseness of the hair and not on your skin's sensitivity. Additional cooling can help with sensitive skin, but the main focus should be on finding the correct laser and practitioner for your... more

A: Cooling tip with laser hair removal may help

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD

Darker skin is usually more sensitive during the laser hair removal, just because it has more pigment that attracts the laser. For Caucasian, but sensitive skin, using a cooling device while performing the procedure can make a big difference. Choosing laser with integrated chilled tip helps with any pain or... more

A: Laser Hair Removal for Sensitive Skin

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

Laser hair removal uses a process called photothermolysis to heat up hair follicles and cause them to regress.  Most importantly, the laser light wavelength is set at a specific wavelength to work directly on the hair follicle without affecting the skin.  Generally, the skin will not respond to... more

Comments

jniu
10 posts
3 Sep 2008

If you have photosensitive reactions to light in general, laser hair removal might not be safe for you. You might have to look into alternatives like electrolysis. If your skin is only sensitive to chemicals (e.g. soap, skin care products, etc.), laser shouldn't be a problem. Exactly which laser device is best for you depends on your skin and hair type. For darker skin tone, the Nd:Yag laser is the best. For fair skin tone, the Alexandrite laser is one of the best. To prevent reactions and side effects from the laser treatment, pre and post treatment care is important. Generally speaking, the area being treated should not be exposed to the sun for 2-4 weeks prior to, during and 1-2 weeks after the treatment.  Cool the skin thoroughly during and immediately after the laser treatment. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF30 or higher before you leave the office. Treat the area delicately the first couple of days after the treatment. Avoid excessive rubbing, scratching, picking that might increase the chance of inflammation or infection. Use fragrance-free, non-allergenic moisturizer if needed. Aloe, Eucerine or Vaseline are simple and easy to find. Always call your doctor if you have any reactions from the laser treatment. The sooner it is treated, the less the chance of adverse event.

ahmad
1 post
21 Apr 2009

i have facial cappilaries on my nose and cheecks and my skin is so sensitive.is lazer treatment safety to me?thank you..

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