Laser Hair Removal Side Effects: How Serious?

Laser hair removal side effects are minimal according to studies and medical reports. This is not to say there are no side effects you should be aware of. There are. Your skin condition, hair texture, and other factors can affect laser hair removal procedures. So what should you be aware of?

Perhaps you first considered electrolysis but decided on laser hair removal instead. Electrolysis is more thorough as each hair follicle is treated individually and the results are probably more permanent. However, it can be much more costly and of course it takes longer than laser hair removal which sweeps a wider area of skin at a time and treats a large number of hair follicles in one session.

You may experience laser hair removal side effects if your skin is darker and your hair lighter. Some experience blistering of the skin, but this condition can be treated and in time it disappears. Studies and statistics indicate however that there is a very low rate of laser hair removal side effects.

The City Hospital, Birmingham, UK, reported that there is a higher incidence, up to 19%, of pigmentary alterations when shorter-wave length lasers were used on darker skin. This decreased to between 2 and 3% however with the Nd:Yag laser. There were no long term laser hair removal side effects or scarring however. Evidently, longer wavelength laser devices reduced the risk of side effects on darker skin.

In another report, the Department of Dermatology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, observed that laser hair removal side effects can include scarring and changes to the pigmentation of the skin, making it appear either lighter or darker. Additionally, a condition known as Reticulate Erythema can develop from repeated hair removal sessions. This causes a long lasting redness of the skin resembling a net or web-like pattern.

The report also mentioned the risk of Uveitis, an inflammation of the uveal tract, which lines the inside of the eye behind the cornea. This may occur if eyebrow hair is treated and there seems to be a higher prevalence when longer wavelength laser systems are used.

Reports indicate however that these complications are quite rare. There is one significant factor to keep in mind if you want to greatly minimize the risk of laser hair removal side effects. What is that? The laser practitioner's level of expertise! The complications mentioned above can be greatly reduced by a technician who is experienced and has a full understanding of the fundementals of laser hair removal.

Here are some tips to make sure you employ a practioner who knows what they are doing:

Beware of extremely low prices. As in many areas of life, you get what you pay for. In view of the high cost of laser equipment, it stands to reason that a clinic will have to see their investment pay off which will be reflected in their prices. You are probably advised to go to a dermatologist or even a plastic surgeon, at least someone with medical qualifications you can examine. Getting treatment from an unqualified practictioner can result in skin damage and longer lasting laser hair removal side effects.

Be sure to have a test patch first. Laser hair removal doesn't work on everyone. Also check to see if the clinic provides this free. Other things you may want to ask before signing a treatment contract are:

What kind of laser is used and for how long has the clinic been using this particular equipment? What is the name of the medical practitioner who will oversee the procedure and what are his/her qualifications? How many clients has the clinic treated for laser hair removal to date?

You may then wish to arrange a consultation and actually speak to the person who will be carrying out the treatment. Make sure they are relaxed with you and give you confidence. Ask questions on side effects, possible pain levels, etc. and satisfy yourself before making a decision.

Laser technology has advanced there is no doubt. It is reasonable to state that laser hair removal side effects are now minimal. However, there can be side effects, and for this reason it is essential to go to a qualified medical practitioner who has experience and who will know how to treat your particular case. Do your research before commiting yourself to a program of laser hair removal sessions.