Will laser acne treatment also remove or affect hair growth?

Question

For example, let's say you go in for a laser treatment to treat acne scars on the face, could the laser also prevent hair growth or burn the hair follicles?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Mahira Tanovic, MD · Answer

Hello,
This is a great question. Laser treatment for the reduction of acne has no effect on the hair follicle, as the target of the laser is not the hair follicle. 
Best,Dr. Tanovic

Roya Rakhshani, MD · Answer

Hello; yes laser hair removal over time can reduce the hair. I have seen regrowth over time but that is not a guarantee.

Will laser acne treatment also remove or affect hair growth?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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

Will laser acne treatment also remove or affect hair growth?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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