During laser hair removal, a strong pulsating beam of light passes through the skin, destroying the hair follicle. According to the Mayo Clinic, the surgical procedure works best on people with dark hair and light skin. Dermatologists and aestheticians use lasers to remove hair from anywhere on the body, although the procedure typically is used on the chin, upper lip, legs, armpits and bikini areas. While laser hair removal is relatively safe, there are side effects to consider.
Impermanence
Lasers damage the hair follicles, causing them to grow back at a slower pace. Eventually, the procedure must be repeated when the follicles recover. You may need several treatments in a row to see any lasting results and require periodic repetitions of the procedure to remain hair-free. A regimen of four to six treatments lasting over a couple of weeks provides longer-lasting results. Touch-ups every year keep the new hair growth at bay.
Pigment Changes
Lasers can damage skin pigmentation, leaving discoloration, especially in people with darker skin. Patches of darker or lighter skin may appear where the laser invaded the epidermis, reports the "Hair Removal Journal." Pigment changes usually are temporary, however, and rarely leave permanent damage unless the procedure was performed incorrectly.
Skin Irritation
Scabs and crustiness often appear following a laser hair removal treatment. The irritations usually disappear in a couple of days. Rarely do lasers leave permanent scars or blistering, but the risks are inherent in the procedure. You must sign a waiver at the time of treatment, releasing the practitioner from blame if scarring continues.
Pain
Lasers use intense heat to kill the hair follicles. The level of pain you'll experience depends on your pain tolerance. You may not tolerate the discomfort if you have a low tolerance for pain. According to the "Hair Removal Journal," the average pain is likened to how it feels when a rubber band snaps against your skin. Pain usually is greater in people with thick, dark hair because a stronger, longer beam is needed to dissolve the hair. Pain may be more intense on sensitive body parts that have little exposure, such as bikini areas. The first treatment usually is the most painful because the hairs become thin and softer after each visit. Numbing cream is available to reduce the amount of pain, but while under the influence of the numbing solution, you won't be able to tell the technician if the laser is too hot. Clinicians use pain thresholds to monitor the laser settings.
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