Laser Hair Removal – The Side Effects and the Risks

Laser hair removal is one of the most popular non-surgical methods used to get rid of unwanted hair in Belfast. Although it is considered a little expensive compared to other hair removal methods, it is preferred for its effectiveness and convenience by both men and women.rnDepending on the surface area to be treated, laser hair removal requires a few sessions of ten or fifteen minutes each at two month intervals. The process involves exposure of the treatment area to the laser which destroys the hair follicles and prevents hair growth. rnLike any medical procedure in Belfast, the laser hair removal method also carries the risk of side effects. The intensity of these side effects can be mild or severe, depending on the patient’s skin conditions. rnWhat are the side effects of laser hair removal?rnWhile laser hair removal is considered fairly safe for most people, it can cause side effects for some. Prior to deciding whether to go in for laser hair removal, it is best to check if you are a good candidate for this procedure. Although this method is recommended for light skinned people with dark hair, today there are a number of laser types that can work on different skin and hair color. rnSome temporary side effects of laser hair removal are: • Temporary pain along with a burning sensation during the procedure. This is usually resolved with a topical numbing cream to relieve the pain. Some doctors prescribe pain relief medication if necessary. • At the time of healing, the skin can become blistered on the surface. This can be embarrassing especially if the skin is in a visible area like the face, until it heals. • Changes in pigmentation that disappear in a few monthsrn• Scarring in rare cases • Swelling and redness on the skin post-treatment, usually in the facial arearn• Skin sensitivityrn• Skin discolorationrnBesides the above, laser hair removal is known to cause some severe reactions. Some people experience long term skin damage in the form of permanent discolorations and long term scarring. Following the doctor’s instructions diligently can minimize the risks associated with this hair removal method. During the evaluation stage to find out if laser hair removal is suitable for you, let the doctor know about any family history of skin ailments. For a specified period before the treatment, your doctor will ask you to do the following: • Avoid tanning or going out unprotected in the sunrn• Avoid waxing or plucking in the area to be treated for a few weeksrn• Avoid make up on the day of treatmentrn• Take antibiotic medications as prescribedrnTo minimize the risks, laser hair removal is best performed by trained professionals in a facility equipped with the right equipment. It is worthwhile to get all the relevant information specific to your own situation to prevent side effects and ensure risk free treatment.