• Skin Care

The Benefits and Risks of Laser Hair Removal

Medically reviewed and edited by Teena Harrison, DNP, FNP-BC

Laser hair removal has gained popularity over the years as the best method for achieving smooth, hair-free skin. 

It’s estimated that about one million people get laser hair removal each year.

If you’re looking to get rid of unwanted hair and need a more permanent solution than waxing, shaving, or plucking, laser hair removal may be the right choice for you.

However, laser hair removal comes with certain risks and it may not be suitable for everyone.

In this article, we’ll guide you through how laser hair removal works and its benefits. We’ll also cover some of the risks involved so you can decide if this hair removal method is right for you.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses concentrated beams of light from a laser to remove unwanted hair. 

It can also be done at home with a laser device, although it is safer when done by a professional.

It works by targeting melanin, the pigment in the hair follicle that absorbs light and converts it into heat. This damages the hair follicles, preventing further hair growth.

Laser treatment is a long-term hair removal option that is ideal for the face, legs, underarms, and other areas.

The procedure can be performed on most skin types and tones, but it’s typically more effective on people with dark hair and light skin because the contrast allows the laser to target the pigment in the hair better.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), you can safely do laser hair removal treatments every four to six weeks.

Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction rather than completely removing the hair. Although it can slow down hair growth, it doesn’t guarantee permanent hair removal.

Many people will experience significant hair reduction after a series of treatments, meaning the hair becomes finer, lighter, and sparser. 

The results can last for several months to years, but maintenance laser treatments may be needed to keep an area hair-free.

Aside from the color of the skin and hair, several other factors influence the permanence of laser hair removal, including:

• Hair growth cycle: Multiple sessions are required because hair growth occurs in cycles. Laser hair removal treatments target the hair in the anagen phase, which is the active growth phase. However, not all your hairs are in this phase simultaneously.

• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations can affect hair growth, so conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause new hair growth even after laser treatments.

• Area of the body: Some areas of the body respond better to laser hair removal than others. For example, facial hair may be more resistant to permanent removal as it’s often denser and coarser than hair elsewhere on the body.

What are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?

If you are considering laser hair removal, here are some of the benefits you can expect:

Precision

The lasers used during this hair removal method target hair follicles with high precision, ensuring that only the hairs are treated and the skin remains unaffected. 

This means that only targeted hairs will be removed without affecting surrounding areas.

Speed

Each pulse of the laser takes a fraction of a second and can treat many hairs simultaneously. 

Small areas like the upper lip can be treated in less than a minute, while larger areas, such as the back or legs, can take around an hour. 

This hair removal method is faster than other options like waxing.

Long-term results

After three to seven sessions, many people experience long-term hair reduction, and some even achieve permanent hair removal. 

These results are typically much longer lasting than those from other hair removal methods.

Cost-effectiveness

Although the upfront cost of laser hair removal can be higher than other methods, it can save you money in the long run. 

By reducing or eliminating the need for regular purchases of shaving supplies or waxing sessions, it becomes a more cost-effective option over time.

Reduction of ingrown hairs

Laser hair removal helps prevent and reduce ingrown hairs, which are common after waxing or shaving. Ingrown hairs can be painful, uncomfortable, and unsightly, and may lead to skin irritation and infections.

Improved skin texture

Regular hair removal methods can cause skin irritation, bumps, razor burn, or cuts. Laser hair removal can lead to smoother skin without the irritation associated with waxing or shaving. 

Many people also find that their skin becomes softer and smoother with a more even texture after laser hair removal.

Minimal side effects

While minor side effects such as redness and swelling may occur from laser hair removal, they typically subside within a few hours.

Convenience

Laser hair removal can be performed on nearly any part of the body, including sensitive areas such as the bikini line and face. It’s a versatile treatment that can cater to individual preferences and needs.

Reduced hair growth

As mentioned earlier, any hair that grows back after laser treatment is often finer, lighter, and sparser, making it less noticeable and easier to manage. Over time, this regrowth can become minimal.

What are the Risks of Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is generally safe, especially when it’s performed by a qualified professional. 

But, like with any hair removal method, there are certain risks and potential side effects to be aware of, including:

Skin irritation

Redness and swelling may occur after laser hair removal, and this usually happens directly after the procedure. 

These side effects tend to subside after a few hours, but they can last for several days.

Some people also experience pain, tingling, or discomfort during and after the procedure, often described as a “sunburnt sensation”. 

Although, only 6% of people report severe pain when having laser hair removal.

Pigment changes

The treated area may become temporarily or permanently darker than the surrounding skin, although this is more common in people with darker skin tones.

On the other hand, the treated area may lose pigment and can become lighter than the surrounding skin. This is especially true for individuals with a darker complexion.

Changes in skin texture

Although very rare, some people experience blistering in the treated area, which can lead to scarring if not properly managed. Permanent scarring can also occur if proper skin care is not followed after the procedure.

Eye injury

Direct exposure to laser light can cause serious eye injury, which is why both you and the practitioner should always wear protective eyewear during the procedure.

Infection

While this is very rare, there is the risk of infection at the site of the hair removal, especially if blisters or other skin damage occurs.

Crusting and scabbing

The area treated with the laser may develop crusting or scabbing, particularly if the skin is sensitive or if the area is not properly cared for post-treatment.

Burns

Improper use of the laser may cause burns on the skin, but this risk is minimized when the procedure is performed by a trained and experienced professional rather than at home.

Paradoxical hair growth

In rare cases, laser treatment can cause increased hair growth in the nearby areas that haven’t been treated. This is known as paradoxical hypertrichosis and is more common in people with darker skin tones.

Who Shouldn’t Go for Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal isn’t suitable for everyone. Here are some individuals who should avoid laser hair removal or speak to a healthcare professional first:

• Pregnant women: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can affect hair growth patterns and skin sensitivity, making laser hair removal less predictable and potentially more uncomfortable.

• Individuals with skin conditions: If you have active infections, rashes, or open wounds, you should avoid laser hair removal in this area until it has fully healed. People with chronic skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis should consult a dermatologist before undergoing laser hair removal, as the procedure could worsen these conditions.

• People with very light or gray hair: Individuals with very light blond, red, or gray hair may not see effective results because their hair lacks sufficient pigment for the laser to target.

• Those with recent sun exposure or tanning: Recent sun exposure or tanning increases skin sensitivity and the risk of side effects like burns or pigmentation changes. You should avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least four to six weeks before and after laser hair removal.

• People on certain medications: Individuals who take blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin should approach laser hair removal with caution, as these drugs can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Certain antibiotics and acne medications can also increase the risk of adverse reactions to laser hair removal. 

• Young adolescents: Hormonal changes during puberty can lead to unpredictable hair growth patterns, potentially making laser hair removal less effective. It’s often recommended to wait until hormonal levels stabilize before starting laser hair removal.

Where Can I Get More Health and Wellness Advice?

At LifeMD, we want you to live the healthiest life possible. We’ll connect you with healthcare professionals who can provide expert wellness advice and guidance as well as treatments for various conditions.

Make your online appointment today.

Teena Harrison, DNP, FNP-BC

Teena graduated with a Master of Science Degree from Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida and earned her Doctoral Degree from Touro University in Henderson, NV. Teena has been practicing for 25 years in various healthcare arenas including Family Practice, Urgent Care, and Geriatrics. She is board certified in Family Medicine. Teena is a devoted and compassionate medical professional whose daily goal is to provide quality care while ensuring her patients feel truly listened to and at ease during their time with her. She believes in treating the whole person — not just the diagnosis — and is committed to actively involving her patients in the development of their treatment plan. Teena currently lives in Winston Salem, NC with her dog Nacho Cheese and enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren. She is also a member of ASPCA and is involved in animal rescue.

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