Is 14 years of age to young for facial laser treatment?

Question

My daughter is 14 years of age, and has a lot of hair on her chin and cheek area of her face. It's also really visible and is affecting her at school. People continuously point it out and call her names. I just want to know if it Will it ruin her skin or cause any problems to her face? Thank you.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

In my opinion laser hair removal is not a problem for 14-year-old. If this is causing her significant problems especially in school seek treatment from experience practitioners.

Jared Mallalieu, DO · Answer

Your daughter should do fine with laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is a safe and effective procedure and can be done at any age. Keep in mind she may need some touch up treatments later in life. Hair growth is hormone driven and she may find some regrowth as she continues to develop. Use of topical numbing agent should be enough to keep her comfortable. Be well, Dr. M

Phillip Bekhor, MBBS, FACD · Answer

While there are no actual contra-indications to laser hair removal there are some important considerations. It is important to exclude any pathological cause of excessive facial hair in one so young. This can be screened by your GP, dermatologist or endocrinologist. Secondly, laser treatment is uncomfortable. Even with cooling systems and icing it is not overly pleasant. We find younger patients less tolerant of this discomfort but it really is an individual response. Finally, it is important to find a medical laser clinic that can offer a variety of lasers which will be safe on your daughter's skin, no matter how dark her skin may be. Remember too, that summer is coming and laser treatment cannot be performed on tanned skin. The best place to start is with a consultation in a recognised and experienced medical laser clinic, preferably under the supervision of a laser dermatologist.

Is 14 years of age to young for facial laser treatment?

Answers (3)