The side effects of laser hair removal are minimal according to studies and medical reports. This is not to say that there are no side effects to be aware of. There is. Your skin condition, hair texture, and other factors can affect laser hair removal procedures. So what should you keep in mind?

Perhaps you first considered electrolysis, but settled on laser hair removal instead. Electrolysis is more complete as each hair follicle is treated individually and the results are likely to be more permanent. However, it can be much more expensive and of course takes more time than laser hair removal, which sweeps a larger area of ​​skin at one time and treats a large number of hair follicles in one session.

You may experience side effects from laser hair removal if your skin is darker and your hair is lighter. Blisters may appear, but they can be treated and disappear over time. However, generally speaking, there is a surprisingly low incidence of side effects from laser hair removal based on studies and statistical reports.

In the UK, the City Hospital of Birmingham reported a higher incidence of pigmentary abnormalities, up to 19 per cent, in fact, when shorter-wavelength lasers were used to treat hair on darker skin. This decreased to between 2 and 3% however with the Nd:Yag laser. However, there were no long-term side effects or scarring from laser hair removal. Obviously, the longer wavelength laser devices reduced the risk of side effects in darker skin.

In another report, the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, noted that side effects of laser hair removal can include scarring and changes in skin pigmentation, making it appear lighter or darker. Additionally, a condition known as erythema reticulate can develop from repeated waxing sessions. This causes a long-lasting reddening of the skin that resembles a web-like or cobweb-like pattern.

The report also mentioned the risk of uveitis, an inflammation of the uveal tract, which lines the inside of the eye behind the cornea. This can occur if eyebrow hair is treated and appears to be more prevalent when longer wavelength laser systems are used.

Reports indicate, however, that these complications are quite rare. There is one important factor to consider if you want to greatly minimize the risk of laser hair removal side effects. What’s that? The experience of the laser professional! The complications mentioned above can be greatly reduced by an experienced technician who has a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of laser hair removal.

Here are some tips to make sure you hire a professional who knows what they’re doing:

Beware of extremely low prices. As in many areas of life, you get what you pay for. Laser equipment is expensive and a responsible clinic will charge accordingly to see a return on their investment. You will probably be advised to go to a dermatologist or even a plastic surgeon, at least someone with medical qualifications who can examine you. Going to an inexperienced person can lead to lasting laser hair removal side effects and skin damage.

Make sure you have a test patch first. Laser hair removal does not work on everyone. Also check if the clinic offers this for free. Other things you may want to ask before signing a treatment contract are:

What type of laser is used and how long has the clinic been using this particular piece of equipment? What is the name of the doctor who will be supervising the procedure and what are his qualifications? How many clients has the clinic treated for laser hair removal to date?

Next, you may want to arrange a consultation and speak to the person who will carry out the treatment. Make sure they are relaxed with you and give you confidence. Ask questions about side effects, possible pain levels, etc. and satisfy yourself before making a decision.

There is no doubt that laser technology has progressed rapidly. It is reasonable to say that the side effects of laser hair removal are now minimal. However, there may be side effects, so it is essential to see a qualified, experienced doctor who knows how to treat your particular case. Do thorough research online and by word of mouth with friends who may have had the treatment before signing up on the dotted line for a series of sessions.