I have extremely irritated skin around my bikini area after laser hair removal. What can I do to treat it?

Question

I have had 2 session of laser hair removal and after the first I saw no issue. I had my second session halfway through May and only noticed a few red bumps on the top of my bikini area a week or 2 ago. They're not itchy and it's not sore. I do have sensitive skin and used to suffer really bad with dry skin. I also have hayfever. I just want to know if there's any cream or medication I may have to take to get it to clear up. Thank you .

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

So sorry you are having this reaction.  We would suggest some over the counter diaper rash ointment to soothe it for now and to avoid any further treatments until your skin is completely clear.  It is also essential that your skin not be overdry before or at the time of treatment because the heat from the laser in combination with your dry cracked skin will only increase the chances of skin reaction.  It is also possible that you are getting this reaction because you shaved too close to your treatment.  At Monroe Comprehensive Laser Center in Monroe, Mi we advise patient to shave no sooner than two days before treatment or ahead enough so that there is just a mm or 2 of stubble visible in the desired treatment area.  It is also essential to time the treatment interval differently depending on the area treated to attempt to prevent skin reaction from overtreating.  Here is some basic information on Laser Hair  Removal.

Maha S. Shakir, MD, FACS · Answer

I'm so sorry to hear about your irritation. This is very normal after this laser treatment. Those bumps could be caused by swelling of the hair follicle and should go away shortly. Try doing some cool compresses around the area. This could also be caused by not following after care from the treatment. Make sure you don't have any heat or sun exposure for at least 24-48 hours. Wish you the best

LOVA- Lake Oswego Vein & Aesthetic

LOVA- Lake Oswego Vein & Aesthetic

Robert Berberian, MD · Answer

By the look of the photo , looks like you have folliculitis either from shaving and /or hairs being ingrown post laser. If from shaving - you need to use a clean razor every new shave, possibly the need of tend skin after the shave. If from being ingrown from laser ,you will need a topical abx. 
I hope this helps

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

This can be common after laser hair removal. If the treating office didn't cool the area post treatment sometimes redness and edema around the follicles can persist. OTC hydrocortisone can usually work to resolve it - apply cool water first - and use it a few times a day. Also the Phyto Corrective Masque from SkinCeuticals is great for inflammation and redness (like mosquito bites), so it can help too. You can even keep that in your fridge and apply it yourself post treatment. "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."

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. I'm sorry to hear about your reaction to the laser treatment. A common risk after laser hair therapy is redness or inflammation, and at times, moisturizing creams or lotions may be enough to decrease the inflammation. However, if the redness/inflammation persists, then I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist to evaluate your skin and discuss treatment options. Take care and good luck.

I have extremely irritated skin around my bikini area after laser hair removal. What can I do to treat it?

Answers (5)

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