Is permanent hair removal treatment safe on pubic area?

Question

While I have learned through a hard way that my pubic area isn't shaving friendly, I thought of permanent hair removal treatment. So far, I've received 5 treatments from a dermatologist's clinic that uses Fotona's laser equipment. The first four treatments seemed effective but prior to the fifth, my pubic hair started to grow back as normal again. I'm just worried of doing too many laser treatments, especially in the pubic area. Might it affect my reproductive system? Is it cancer risk-free?

Adaeze Okeke, MD · Answer

It is absolutely safe to have laser hair removal to your pubic area. The laser selectively targets only the growing hair follicle which is located very superficially beneath the surface of your skin. There is no risk at all to your reproductive organs. Additionally, the wavelengths of light used in cosmetic lasers are  non-carcinogenic.

Depending on how coarse your hair growth is, you can expect to have at least 6 treatments to have significant hair reduction. Many people will require several more for successful results. Let your clinic know that you are not getting the results your expected, it could be an issue with the settings the operator is using. Good luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Hair removal can be done in the pubic area without any issues. I suggest you see an expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! Laser hair removal does not increase the risk f cancer and it does not influence your reproductive system by any means. It is superficial treatment. You may need more than 5 treatments for pubic area. Usually after few treatment dead hair starts coming out so it seems like your hair is growing coarser. Share your concerns with your provider, they may need to adjust settings as well. Hang in there, you will notice reduction in hair growth shortly. Laser hair removal is not permanent and it does not remove your hair completely. It reduces the hair growth for about 75 percent and it will require occasional touchups. Good luck!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Laser hair removal does not increase the risk of cancer and it does not influence your reproductive system by any means. It is superficial treatment. You may need more than 5 treatments for pubic area. Usually after few treatment dead hair starts coming out so it seems like your hair is growing coarser. Share your concerns with your provider, they may need to adjust settings as well. Hang in there, you will notice reduction in hair growth shortly. Laser hair removal is not permanent and it does not remove your hair completely. It reduces the hair growth for about 75 percent and it will require occasional touchups. Good luck!

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

There are no risks of cancer or to the reproductive organs with LHR. Success with LHR requires multiple treatments. Usually at least 6 are needed but some people need more. Make sure the proper settings are used for maximizing your results.

Is permanent hair removal treatment safe on pubic area?

Answers (6)

Answer: Laser hair removal and risk of cancer

Answer: Laser hair removal and risk of cancer

Answer: Laser hair removal is safe in the pubic area

Answer: Laser hair removal is safe in the pubic area

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

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Is permanent hair removal treatment safe on pubic area?

Answers (6)

Answer: Laser hair removal and risk of cancer

Answer: Laser hair removal and risk of cancer

Answer: Laser hair removal is safe in the pubic area

Answer: Laser hair removal is safe in the pubic area

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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.