Laser Hair Removal Damaging to Thyroid?

February 27, 2009
Asked By:LGuser in Maryland, MD

I read a question that three doctors answered regarding IPL not being harmful to the thyroid, but I've had about 20 laser hair removal sessions to my entire chest/breast and stomach area. I'm a female and my technician (physician supervised) administered laser hair removal to my ENTIRE chest, except my areola/nipple area and my entire lower abdomen each time. Is it possible that the laser hair removal could have damaged any of my glands? (Sometimes the tech would administer laser hair removal close to my armpits, too). I've recently found out that I have a low-functioning thyroid, and I can't help but think the lasers could have something to do with it as thyroid issues don't run in my family. However, since I was 13 I had hair on my chest. When I turned 25 I decided enough's enough and finally started to treat it. Now, I'm 31 and don't get the hair removal sessions anymore, but I want to if the hair starts to come back. Also, I've gotten many photofacials over the years and I had 3 Smoothbeam/Blue U sessions, which I stopped because the Smoothbeam was so painful. I haven't stopped the photofacials, however, and intend to get a few before summer. In general, what effects do lasers, photofacials, etc. have on our glands and hormones? I hope I haven't damaged my body's balance... Thanks so much!

Answers (5)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
MOST RECENT
July 18, 2014

Answer: These devices do not penetrate the dermis deeply

Ron Shelton, MDDermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology
MOST RECENT
July 18, 2014

Answer: These devices do not penetrate the dermis deeply

Ron Shelton, MDDermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology
July 18, 2014

Answer: Hair removal will not damage your thyroid

July 18, 2014

Answer: Hair removal will not damage your thyroid

February 13, 2016

Answer: IPL treatments do not penetrate deeply

February 13, 2016

Answer: IPL treatments do not penetrate deeply

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July 18, 2014

Answer: Hypothyroidism is very common in women

Steven F. Weiner, MDBoard Certified Otolaryngologist
July 18, 2014

Answer: Hypothyroidism is very common in women

Steven F. Weiner, MDBoard Certified Otolaryngologist
March 1, 2009

Answer: Laser Hair Removal does not affect Thyroid function

March 1, 2009

Answer: Laser Hair Removal does not affect Thyroid function

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