I Recently Had Hair Removal Laser and It Left Red Patches, Normal? (photo)

Question

I recently had hair removal laser on my knee and thighs and it left red patches. Doesnt look like burns but extremely itchy. What is it? It has been 7 days. And the red has grown darker and rough to touch. I took antihistamin pills for the itch and applied a hydrocortisone type cream on it.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Red patches is really common after having an invasive laser treatment done, the photo provided you can clearly see that this is a mild burn. I suggest asking your medical provider about this, the laser might have been on a setting too high and may need to be adjusted. Make sure this office has experience treating different skin types to prevent this from happening again.

	Best regards,

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

I would speak with the dermatologist at the clinic since laser hair removal or any other laser can cause various potential skin changes which the onsite dermatologist can easily deal with. The redness is likely some mild dermatitis which hydrocortisone can be helpful for, and make sure to avoid sun exposure to this area for at least 2 weeks. ~ Dr. Benjamin Barankin, Toronto Dermatology Centre.

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

Some folliculitis or hair follicle irritation after laser hair removal is quite normal. However, based on your photos, you have a pretty significant laser burn actually (those are the bar marks from the laser!) and should be seen by your treating office. I don't think you have any permanent markings, but you need to let them know the laser was far too high and if they turn up the laser for your next treatment, you could have permanent damage from burns.

I Recently Had Hair Removal Laser and It Left Red Patches, Normal? (photo)

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I Recently Had Hair Removal Laser and It Left Red Patches, Normal? (photo)

Answers (3)

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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.