Countless people have experienced safe, long-lasting results from laser hair removal. As is the case with any effective cosmetic or medical procedure, there is always the risk of side effects. It is important to discuss the possibility of problems with your dermatologist prior to beginning treatment. If this doctor is a skill technician and has a good reputation, the chance of side effects will probably be greatly decreased. In the case of unpleasant after-effects, patients can take comfort in the fact that they are most likely a temporary condition and aren't likely to last very long.

Possible side effects of laser hair removal include the following:

1) Pain - A brief and moderate stinging is the usual sensation one feels during the laser hair removal process. This slight pain should never increase to include extreme discomfort but, if the area to be treated happens to be in a traditionally sensitive part of the body, the dermatologist may be able to offer numbing creams or other soothing options. Any pain felt during the treatment should eventually subside and disappear completely. Most patients can resume their normal everyday activities directly following the procedure.

2) Swelling and Redness - Skin irritation is a common and temporary side effect of laser removal procedures. The inflammation or redness should subside after a day or two and healing can be expedited through the use of topical treatments. Although irritation usually disappears soon after leaving the doctor's office, icing the area and/or applying soothing creams will assist in the process. If there is unusually red or swollen skin, any irritation should be completely healed within a week.

3) Scabbing, burning or blistering - The use of an inexperienced doctor could easily increase any risk of these rare yet painful and potentially dangerous side effects. When the laser used is not properly calibrated, the procedure could result in injured skin. It is also recommended that patients refrain from tanning in the days leading up to treatment as this, too, could cause damage. Because the lasers used to treat individuals with darker skin are more powerful, these patients have a greater risk of burning and scabbing. It is important to treat these affected areas with petroleum jelly and, if the skin opens up following treatment, medicated topical ointments or creams.

4) Changes in skin color - A lightening or darkening of the treated area may occur after laser treatment. Although this change in pigment may cause alarm at first, the skin usually returns to normal within a few months. Other skin changes, such as a lightening of freckles or moles, may also occur. Tattoos, if exposed to the beam, could also lighten in color.

To guard against the possible risks of laser hair removal side effects, it is important to follow recommended guidelines prior to treatment. Avoiding tanning is important and, as always, using the services of an experienced and qualified doctor at a reputable laser hair removal clinic is of the utmost importance. Be sure that your practitioner is trained in the treatment of laser removal for your particular type of skin and that he or she uses the best technology available to treat your specific problem. If side effects do occur, be sure to communicate with your doctor if any situation should persist or worsen.