I was diagnosed with genital HSV 1 5 years ago - no ob since. Can laser hair removal cause permanent reoccurring outbreaks?

Question

I was diagnosed with genital hsv1 5 years ago and have never had an outbreak since. I want to know if I get laser hair removal, will it damage the nerve endings so that I could get recurrent outbreaks even after all treatments are complete? Really want to get laser but too scared it’s going to cause permenant outbreaks. Also, what is the likelihood of an ob with laser for genital HSV1? Thank you so so so much.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, you can have laser hair removal. Diode, alexandrite and yag lasers work best. It will take a series of treatments to get improvement. Please see an expert for an evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  HSV breakouts can be unpredictable.  Sometimes they are triggered by stress in the area.  Do not let this dissuade you from getting LHR.  If you are overly concerned, have a physician write you a prescription for Valtrex.  Follow their orders, but generally take it a couple days before until a couple of days after a laser treatment in that area.  I hope this helps.

I was diagnosed with genital HSV 1 5 years ago - no ob since. Can laser hair removal cause permanent reoccurring outbreaks?

Answers (2)