Considering Laser Hair Removal, but want to know the cancer risks involved?
You’re not alone. One of the most common questions laser hair removal doctors get, is whether or not laser hair removal causes cancer.
In this article, we discuss the connection between laser hair removal and cancer, as well as all risks and side effects involved. Read on!
Can Laser Hair Removal Cause Cancer? Laser Hair Removal Cancer Risks:
Many patients are concerned with the chances of getting skin cancer after undergoing laser hair removal treatments. However, we are here to easy your worries.
In terms of cancer risk, gamma rays and X-rays are considered the most dangerous. This is due to the fact that they are known as high-frequency ionizing radiation. Many medical tests, such as CT scans and X-rays, use high-frequency ionizing radiation to perform the tests. When ionizing radiation passes through the body, it can cause direct damage to our cell’s DNA and carry the potential for skin cancer later in life. This included skin cancer, and breast cancer.
That said, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) states laser energy used in laser hair removal procedures use non-ionizing radiation. Great news!
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe? What are the safety risks?
Treatment Risk: The treatment risks involved in laser hair removal vary with skin type, texture, and hair type/color.
The most common risks involve:
- Skin irritation
- Temporary discomfort
- Redness at the sight of treatment
- Swelling (short-lived)
Common Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal works by the use of small, high-heat lasers. Due to that fact, there are some side effects to consider.
Common side effects to consider:
- Skin irritation.
- Redness and sensitivity. You are likely to notice a bit of redness and increased sensitivity in the area treated. This is similar to the skin’s’ reaction after waxing.
- Pigmentation changes. After laser treatments, you may notice slightly lighter, or darker, skin changes. These changes are temporary, and no reason for concern.
Severe Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal (THESE ARE RARE):
In rare cases, laser hair removal can cause more serious side effects. If you choose to use an at home laser hair removal device, your chances of getting grim side effects are greater. This is due to the fact that, should you choose to do the procedure at home, you won’t be under the care of a trained, certified hair removal technician.
Some More Serious Side Effects Include:
- Significant changes in skin texture. The chances of this occurring increase if you go tanning 2 weeks prior to getting laser hair removal.
- Scars. This side effect is more common in patients who tend to scar more easily.
- Skin crusting, getting blisters. To avoid this side effect, stay out of direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks after your hair removal treatment.
- Intense hair re-growth in and around the area of treatment. Many confuse this side effect with “shedding” after hair removal treatments. However, some individuals experience excessive hair growth after getting laser hair removal.
If you feel concerned about any of these serious side effects, consult with your doctor. A licensed professional with knowledge of your medical history will be able to better gauge your chances of getting these side effects. Should you experience any of these after receiving laser hair removal, contact your doctor right away.
Pre-Laser Hair Removal Treatment Precautions:
- Avoid any type of skin bleaching, plucking and waxing areas of skin for at least 4 to 6 weeks prior to laser hair removal treatments.
- If you have a history of herpes, go ahead and undergo antiviral therapy before and after receiving treatments.
- Refrain from taking any photosensitive drugs or herbs, for at least 24 hours prior to laser hair removal.
- Do not shave for 4 to 8 days prior to laser hair removal treatments. This will help ensure you receive the best results from your treatments.
- As previously stated, avoid sun exposure before and after having laser hair removal done.
