Do I need eye glasses for laser hair removal?

Question

I had laser hair removal treatment for underarm. I asked the technician for eye glasses, she said its not require and see I am also not wearing them. I was really surprised and didn't know what to say so I went on with the procedure.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.Protective eye wear is required to be worn by the patients, providers and/or anyone else in the room during any laser treatment. To be sure, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment.I hope this helps.

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

You absolutely should be given protective eyewear during laser assisted hair removal treatments.  Failure to provide you with adequate ocular protection during a laser treatment violates the standard of care.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

if they did not offer you eye shields then you should not go back to that practice. all laser hair removal treatments require eye shields for protection of the eye.  best, Dr. Emer.

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

Most effective and common laser hair removal devices include: diode, alexandrite and nd:yag. It is absolutely crucial that one protects the patients eyes from all the above lasers. I urge you to continue the rest of your treatments in a board certified cosmetic practitioners office.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

Don't know what they were thinking. Some people think IPLs are eye safe but they too are not. There are portions of the laser light that are reflected off the skin. Also an inadvertent shot of the laser when not touching the skin could leave you with permanent visual loss. Don't risk it. For patients I always use the safest eye protection which is metal shields. Goggles are need by the operator for obvious reasons but still can allow light in if it comes from the side or underneath.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Laser goggles are needed for patients and technicians for any light or laser treatments. They are not required if the technology is just radio frequency, but any time any light or laser is emitted from the machine and can be seen, laser goggles are required for anyone in the room. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Do I need eye glasses for laser hair removal?

Answers (6)