Scarring is a rare and infrequent risk of laser hair removal. By seeking out a highly-trained specialist to perform the procedure and ensuring you are an appropriate candidate for hair removal, you can greatly reduce the risk of this complication.
The most common cause of scarring is improper use of the laser tool. While the tool is technologically-advanced and extremely safe, there are a variety of different types of lasers, as well as certain techniques that must be followed and modified for different patient populations. It can be risky to rely on an untrained or inexperienced doctor or specialist. Blistering or keloid scars can be caused by improper tool use that causes it to penetrate too deeply into the skin. Professional hair removal specialists are able to identify which patient populations require which types of lasers and how to use them appropriately.
Even with proper tool use, certain individuals are not appropriate candidates for laser hair removal and will be prone to scarring even with the most experienced doctor or specialist. Use of certain Accutane acne medication, a patient’s ability to heal, and the amount of melanin in skin tones may cause a patient to simply be more susceptible to scarring based on their natural factors and genetic makeup. The best candidates for laser hair removal have coarse dark hair and fair skin. Deviating further from those traits doesn’t mean laser hair removal will be impossible, it just means more care needs to be taken in the selection and use of equipment. A specialist will be able to thoroughly discuss and address these potential complications with you before undertaking any treatment.
More common than scarring, many patients experience lightening or darkening of the skin that may be perceived as scarring. However, this result is usually temporary and resolves within weeks to months. Other side effects can include itching, redness, swelling, pain, tingling or numbness. Rare side effects such as scab formation, bruising, purpura, and infection are usually temporary but should be reported to your specialist or doctor.
For the best results after treatment, it is wise to closely follow your doctor or specialist’s pre- and post-operative instructions. They will give you recommendations to ensure your skin is well prepared for the treatment and is given ample time to heal properly. Be sure to thoroughly discuss your questions and concerns with your specialist or doctor.
