Would laser hair removal cause acne like this? (Photo)

Question

I am 25 years old, never had acne before in my life, but ever since I introduced laser hair removal for my face acne like this won't stop. Chemical peels, topicals, even spironolactone does not prevent it. My only conclusion is it might be the laser hair removal.

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

Laser hair removal should not cause acne.  It is a completely different mechanism of acne.  Your acne looks like hormonal acne which is heat sensitive so the laser is probably aggravating it, not cauing it.  The solution is to fix your hormonal acne in the first place.  I would suggest a .5% nsalicylic acid or less cleanser like paulas choice pore normalizing cleanser.  I would use this twice a day.  I would also use topical clindamycin wipes twice a day to get rid of the bacterial component.  YOu would also need something to bind up the extra testosterone byproducts like birth control or spironolactone.  Once the acne has cleared, you are all set for laser!

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. It is a possibility that the LHR caused your outbreak of acne. It sometimes causes an imbalance in the bacteria your skin has. I would advise you to see a dermatologist for advice. Best of luck to you.

Dr. T

Dr. T

Larry Thiesen, MD · Answer

Acne can be exacerbated by laser hair removal. The laser can disrupt the skin's normal bacterial balance, which can result in an overgrowth of certain bacteria likely to cause acne. It sounds as if you've tried many of the therapeutic options. These would include moisturizers, retinols, antibiotics, spironolactone, steroid creams ,chemical peels, LED light therapy, microdermabrasion. Other considerations with regards to new acne would include dietary changes and/or hormonal fluctuations, which may require hormone testing.

Would laser hair removal cause acne like this? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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