Shaving, using a depilatory cream or having laser hair removal can all lead to burns. These burns can range from minor to severe and the treatment will depend on the type of burn and the severity of the burn. If you experience a burn related to hair removal, it is important to know how to care for it. Before using any treatments for hair removal burns, talk to your doctor to ensure they are safe for you.
Razor Burn
When shaving, ingrown hairs, irritation, nicks and cuts, burns may occur if you shave improperly. Razor burn is not typically serious, but it can be bothersome. Apply aloe vera to help calm and cool the burned area, as well as help to reduce pain, advises the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. To help alleviate irritation and itching related to the burn, a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream can be used. This can be applied up to three times a day, or as instructed by your doctor. Avoid shaving until the razor burn completely clears up to prevent further burns and irritation.
Chemical Burns
Hair removal creams use chemicals to remove the hair. They work by dissolving the hair in ts follicle. These chemicals can be strong, especially if you have sensitive skin. If you experience a chemical burn from using hair removal creams, rinse the burned area for 20 minutes, advises the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. You should not apply any ointments, grease, salves or anything else to the burned area. Do not apply bandages. Have the chemical burn evaluated by a physician so she can determine the extent of the burn. Your doctor will instruct you on the type of ointments and bandages to use to heal the burned area.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal involves using highly concentrated light beams that penetrate the hair follicles. The hair's pigment will absorb this light, in turn turning into heat. This heat destroys each treated hair follicle permanently, resulting in the hair follicle no longer producing hair. Burns and blisters are rare, but can occur. Routine wound care, using bandages and ointment, is the most often course of treatment, according to the Columbia University Medical Center Department of Dermatology. Silver sulfadiazine, an antibiotic cream, can help to seal the wound and prevent infection if your health care provider feels this is necessary.
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