Laser Hair Removal Side Effects

The Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal

Although laser hair removal is generally a safe and pain free hair removal method, there are side effects associated with it. The side effects of laser hair removal may differ from person to person, and clinic to clinic, but the usual side effects are:

	Redness in the affected area. The redness may last for over a week, but generally fades after a few hours. This symptom is by far the most common, and is generally observed in the armpits and bikini areas.
	Blisters may develop in the affected area. People with darker skin tones are more susceptible to this type of side effect. If affected, this symptom usually lasts about a week. Be sure to leave the blisters alone, as scratching them may open them up and infect them!
	Skin pigmentation may turn from light to dark or vice versa. This is a rather uncommon side effect and may last up to a few months.
	Beauty marks or moles may change color or pigmentation. This can be permanent but usualliy only persists a few weeks.

Generally, people with sensitive skin are more susceptible to side effects. People with light skin or dark hair usually have less problems, but nothing is certain.

What Can You Do?

The best thing you can do to prevent laser hair removal side effects is to take the necessary precautions prior to getting treatment. This involves researching clinics, interviewing their staff, and deciding on the type of treatment you desire. Talk to the clinicians and discuss everything from the type of laser they are using, to your allergies, and skin sensitivies. Most experienced and certified clinics will discuss everything without you having to ask. This is a good sign.

Most people that experience unwanted side effects are those who did not invest time in "due diligence" and ended up picking the cheapest alternative. Cheap clinics use ineffective machines, hire untrained staff, and aren't quick to treat pain and redness.

You should also abstain from using any "photosynthetic" medicines such as accutane or tetracycline. These will irritate the skin, and will cause a very unpleasant procedure.