You may experience redness and swelling for a few hours after laser hair removal. To reduce any discomfort, apply ice to the treated area. Your doctor may also apply a steroid cream to the affected area if you have a skin reaction right after the procedure. This should go away on its own in a few hours or days.
To help calm the area, you can use a cooling cream, such as fragrance-free aloe vera or non-comedogenic after-sun products. You can also use ice packs or cold washing cloths as compresses to reduce swelling or a burning or itching sensation. If you want to remove the few remaining hairs, electrolysis can help after laser hair removal has done most of the work. As an expert in laser hair removal, I understand that it is important to take precautions when undergoing this procedure.
Since lasers use heat from light energy to destroy hair follicles, they can create blisters, just like a burn would. To minimize side effects, it is essential to consider your skin and hair type, lifestyle, and medications when selecting the right laser and performing the treatment. Tanned skin or certain skin tones may be more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is the result of the skin being affected by laser treatment. It is also important to keep your skin fresh during the procedure. According to the AADA, your first laser hair removal procedure will remove 10 to 25 percent of the hair in the treatment area.
Permanent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can create a “burn mark” if the laser was used improperly during hair removal sessions. If you experience rare, long-term side effects, or if you're not sure if they're related to your laser hair removal sessions, always call your provider. Start by booking a consultation and they will tell you what you need to safely remove unwanted hair. Taking care will ensure the smoothest results.
