What should I do for bumps after YAG laser hair removal?

Question

Hello I've been having laser hair removal for facial hair for the past 4 months my skin type is Black , I've had four treatments with yag laser but it's not effective I mean the hair does not grow back as more but it does a little and little bumps appear once in a while under my neck , what should I do?

Umang Mehta, MD · Answer

Thank you so much for your question.  The YAG laser is the best option for people with darker skin tones who desire laser hair removal.  The procedure should be performed about every 4 weeks (as you’ve done) and may take up to 10-12 treatments to achieve desired results.  Some people may experience some inflammation around the hair follicle after laser treatment, which may cause a small bump that will resolve in a couple days. Also, because the area needs to be shaved prior to treatment, some people may develop ingrown hairs as a result of shaving.  It would be best to follow-up with your provider to best determine the cause of the bumps.Best of luck,Dr. Mehta

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question NaeM96. Laser hair removal is a common cosmetic treatment. Nd:YAG laser is the safest for dark skin types. Settings are adjusted to prevent burns. Typically a longer series of treatments is required with such a laser (up to 10 treatments rather than 6-8). Patience is important. The hair should get thinner with each treatment. Bumps around hair follicles are common. They can occur with irritation such as that from shaving. Over time with a series of laser hair removal treatments this improves. Please follow up with your doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Beverly Johnson, MD (retired) · Answer

I agree with the answers posted and I would add this: the more hair you have, the more likely you are need more treatment. In my experience, 6 treatments are an average number. We want patients to get this number so we offer them the sixth one free when they purchase  package of 5. We love it when the patient is happy, and I don't think you have had enough treatment yet. Try to come in every 3- 4 weeks . If you space the treatment too far apart then you  won't get as good results.Be Well,Beverly A. Johnson, MD

Michael R. Whetstone, MD (retired) · Answer

NaeM96 you have chosen the best laser for your skin type.  It is common for patients to get ingrown hairs post laser treatments.  It may be helpful to wash the area with an acne cleanser with salicylic acid between treatments. You should discuss any post treatment reactions with your physician or laser tech.

What should I do for bumps after YAG laser hair removal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Bumps post laser

Answer: Bumps post laser

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What should I do for bumps after YAG laser hair removal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Bumps post laser

Answer: Bumps post laser

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Everything you need to know about YAG Laser

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