Could my vulvar melanoma be related to laser hair removal?

Question

I was diagnosed with vulvar melanoma in 2010. I have had 3 surgeries to remove it and am about to undergo another one. I have never been in a tanning bed and don't do a lot of sun bathing. I have had laser hair removal in the area. Could they be related?

Daniel Levy, MD · Answer

Dear Ronnie,I'm very sorry to hear that you have melanoma.  Melanoma is a treacherous type of cancer which often shows up in sun-shielded areas, and can even occur in the mouth, eye, or soles of feet.  The causes of melanoma are multifactorial and not limited to UV-exposure. While the risk of developing melanoma increases with age, it is also frequently seen in young people.You are more likely to develop melanoma if you:Have fair skin, blue or green eyes, or red or blond hairLive in sunny climates or at high altitudesSpent a lot of time in high levels of strong sunlight, because of a job or other activitiesHistory of one or more blistering sunburns during childhoodUse tanning devicesOther risk factors include:Close relatives with a history of melanomaCertain types of moles with atypical, or dysplastic, cells or multiple large birthmarksWeakened immune system due to disease or medication I am not aware of any data which suggest that a laser treatment, such as hair removal, can trigger melanoma.I wish you the best of luck in achieving a complete clearance and remission.

Peter J. Malouf, DO · Answer

First of all, I am very sorry to hear that you are dealing with melanoma.I find it very unlikely that it had anything to do with laser hair removal although there is no definitive proof.Contrary to popular belief, melanoma is not due to cumulative sun exposure, or sun exposure alone.  It is more likely to happen in people who develop moles, have some genetic and environmental factors, and a history of intermittent sun burns early in life.I hope this helps and I wish you the best in achieving a cure.Let me know if I can further assist you.Dr. Malouf

Could my vulvar melanoma be related to laser hair removal?

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.

Could my vulvar melanoma be related to laser hair removal?

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.