Laser hair removal is typically a safe procedure that is used to eliminate hair, giving more durable results than the regular shaving or waxing methods. However, if you consider this procedure, you must know that there are a number of risks and complications, which can occur due to the incorrect use of the laser devices.
Laser Burns
Laser burns are among the most common risks linked to laser hair removal. The burns will affect the skin, not the hair follicle, due to the excess of laser energy applied during the treatment. The burns are more common in patients that have more melanin (darker skin colors), which will absorb the laser energy faster. Tanned skin is also more exposed to burns.
Typically, laser burns that are due to laser hair removal are not severe, but these need to be treated with ointments to prevent the occurrence of infections and other complications. Plastic surgeons or dermatologists who are inexperienced in using the lasers are more likely to misuse these devices and cause burns.
Laser Scars
Laser scars are more common if the treatment has caused burns. The scars can be prevented if the burns are properly treated with ointments and creams for the skin. Laser scars were more common in the past; today’s technology has reduced the risks of burns and scars.
Eye Injuries
You may be exposed to eye injuries if the hair removal laser device is used on the face and protection measures are not taken. The eyes should be covered, or you need to get some protective eyewear. The eyewear is wavelength specific, so make sure you get suitable eyewear. Experienced dermatologists will be able to provide you with the needed protection for the eyes to avoid eye injuries.
Skin Darkening
The laser beams used in the laser hair removal procedure can cause skin darkening, as the lasers will activate the melanin in the skin. Skin darkening may be uneven and in most cases, it will be only temporary. You should also know that if you have tattoos in the treated areas, these may change in color and become darker.
Hypopigmentation
In some patients, the skin will not get darker following a laser hair removal treatment, but it will become lighter in color. This is known as hypopigmentation and is more common in dark skinned patients. You should avoid exposure to sun at least two weeks prior to the laser treatment to lower your risks of hypopigmentation.
Skin Crusting
Skin crusting can be a possible risk of the laser hair removal procedure. This is due to the fact that the laser beams are applied several times in the same area. Ointments can be applied to reduce skin crusting after laser hair removal.
Wounds and Infections
In few cases, hair removal with lasers can cause wounds on the surface of the skin. These wounds may get easily infected, as after the procedure the skin will be more sensitive. It’s important to prevent exposure to infectious agents (i.e. in public places such as swimming pools).
