Is it normal for treated area to look worse and hairier after treatment?

Question

I just had my 4th treatment on my face. I have PCOS and have lots of dark thick hair on my chin, neck and jawline. After the treatment the hair on my face is very dark and the follicles look irritated (like razor burn). Not to mention the pain and tenderness after as well. Is this normal? I shave my face in between treatments as well and after the treatments the hair follicles are so dark and swollen the razor cant even get a close shave. So frustrating!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Every so often, we do see an itchy bumpy rash following laser hair removal. This is usually because of irritation of the hair follicles in the treated area, and this can be easily treated with a mild cortisone preparation. Keep in mind, it does take a series of treatments to get improvement with laser hair removal and some people need treatments to maintain. I suggest contacting your Dr. for a topical solution. Best, Dr. Emer

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions and we understand your concerns. You must shave in between treatments and no waxing or tweezing.  With our Vectus diode laser, you are only red for 0 to 2 hours. With any hormone imbalance, PCOS & hirsutism, your struggle with hair will be an on-going battle but you should be able to see improvement.  Home use devices just don't compare.  Look for the best LHR equipment and experience that is medically supervised, rather than the cheapest price.Newer lasers have features built in (such as sapphire cooling tips) to make them more comfortable.  Some of the newer technology is also more efficient, allowing for lower energy settings to be used with better results and less discomfort.  For any laser treatment, safety is the most important consideration.   In our state, every new laser patient has to be seen by a medical practitioner.  At that point, they can determine if you can be safely treated with their laser.We recommend finding an experienced and reputable provider in your area with updated equipment.  Calibration and power of the laser is important for a safe, comfortable and effective treatment.  Find out what laser they will use and if it is under a maintenance contract.  If their laser isn’t calibrated on a regular basis or is underpowered, your treatment may be painful or inefficient. Many providers will give you special pricing for folks with a hormone imbalance.  Best of luck.

Is it normal for treated area to look worse and hairier after treatment?

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Is it normal for treated area to look worse and hairier after treatment?

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.