Is it possible to be allergic to laser treatments? (Photo)

Question

I want to get laser hair removal on basically my entire body except my arms. They patchtested me on the Alexandrite laser and i got a rash that lasted 2 weeks and left a mark.They said it's because of the solution the laser uses and they patchtested me with a soprano next. This is the second day and i'm got huge hives that are swallen, itchy and hurt. I used aloe and I hope they'll go away in a couple of days. They used the Alexandrite on my face and it's itchy,but i don't have noticeable hives.

Steven J. Smith, MD · Answer

If you develop a rash after laser hair removal it may be due to lotion used after the treatment.  Also, the energy settings could be adjusted and several test spots can be observed.A true allergy to laser treatment would not be expected from a device that uses light energy.

Heidi A. Waldorf, MD · Answer

LASER means light amplified by stimulated emission of radiation.  So it would be very unlikely that your rash is an allergy to the laser emission itself (light).  Immediately after laser hair removal treatment in an area with very dense hair, the hair follicles can become red and inflamed - looking like little red bumps - and can be itchy.  If it starts during the the treatment, we will reduce the laser energy.  We prescribe a topical steroid to treat the affected areas twice a day until the rash resolves (usually a few days at most).  It is not dangerous if there is no blistering or scabbing.  However, painful swollen hives are not normal and you should call your treating physician to be evaluated. While it could be a result of some topical applied during the treatment, it is more likely related to the energy used for the treatment.  Of note, no solution is necessary for most modern lasers used for hair removal.  At most, some physicians use something like bland ultrasound gel to track the treated areas.  If indeed there is a concern that you have a topical allergy, see a dermatologist for true allergy patch testing (not the same as a 'test area' of treatment with a laser).

Is it possible to be allergic to laser treatments? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

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.

Is it possible to be allergic to laser treatments? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

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.