What is a treatment for blisters after laser hair removal that are getting worse? (Photos)

Question

Had laser hair removal on upper lip on wed. Red n swollen. Especially lips.Applied ice n hydrocortisone. Thur - same. Face became more swollen traveling around from lops to cheeks.Fri- woke up w blisters- told to apply hydrocortisone. Took a Benadryl. Sat- more blisters . This is on area where she didnt zap as have white hairs. I now am applying neosporin. First The spa said I had an allergy. Then the spa said I'm breaking out in pimples. I don't know whether to apply cold or heat oil's or Cortizone

Leslie Pickens, MD · Answer

I agree with the first doctor, thinks look like herpes simplex infection triggered by the heat and injury from your treatment.  It can happen after sun exposure or sunburn also or anything else that causes stress to your body such as illness.  It is a virus, thus treated by an anti-viral such as acyclovir or valacyclovir which require a prescription. It may shorten the severity and the duration by a few days. Without treatment it will also resolve on its own through your immune system in a few weeks.  L-lysine may help found at the vitamin store.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  Blistering can happen if you were burned during the LHR, but they would only be in the treated area.  Typically, the marks would be round or square in the shape and size of the handpiece.  Alternatively, this looks like an HSV outbreak that may have been triggered by the LHR treatment.  If that is the case, you should probably take acyclovir prophylactically prior to your next treatment.  It also works well post breakout to sooth the symptoms. Best of luck.

Jeffrey Swetnam, MD · Answer

The real question you should be asking is What are the bumps and what is causing them.  It sounds as if they may be a form of acne.  This needs to be controlled first.  If there is scarring from the process, it can be treated accordingly.  Good skin care, acne control (if that is the cause) and, yes, lasers can be very beneficial.
Thank you for the question.

What is a treatment for blisters after laser hair removal that are getting worse? (Photos)

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