Laser Hair Removal Side Effects

Laser Hair Removal Side Effects: Are They Serious?

Men and women all over the country are choosing to permanently remove their unwanted body hair with laser removal. The thought of having embarrassing body hair gone for good, or never having to shave again, puts a smile on pretty much anyones face. But even with the popularity of the procedure, many people still worry about laser hair removal side effects.

Laser is actually an acronym for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation In a laser hair removal process, laser beams target hair follicles and obliterate the root. This means that the hair no longer grows after several sessions with laser therapy.

It would seem that a procedure involving shining a laser beam on your body would be extremely painful and dangerous. However, users say that it feels similar to flicking a rubber band against your skin. It is mildly unpleasant, but not painful. The FDA has approved laser hair removal, which should also say something about the safety of the procedure.

The two most common side effects of laser treatment are swelling and redness. This is a direct result of the heat of the laser and should disappear within a few days. Since skin that is freshly lasered will be sensitive, extra care should be taken to protect it from UV rays from the sun in the days following a session.

Areas of skin may become slightly discolored for a few days following the procedure, but should return to normal soon after. More serious, lasting side effects are rare. Permanent discoloration or scarring isn't a significant factor to worry about.

The most important way to guard against serious side effects of laser hair removal is to get the procedure done with a certified, experienced technician using approved laser equipment. If you're nervous about side effects, checking on the background of the clinic you're considering may put your mind at ease. Certification can assure you that the technician knows what he or she is doing.

Still nervous after all the research you can do? The best answer would be to talk to your physician about laser hair removal. Better yet, you could make an appointment with a laser technician to discuss your concerns. You could even arrange to have a small area lasered first to see how your body reacts to the procedure before having large areas done.

Laser hair removal side effects are there, but they aren't much to worry about. Serious side effects are truly rare. The FDA certifies that the practice of laser hair removal is safe. It isn't painful and will only cause mild tenderness that will go away in a short time. By Jenny Evans