Are There Risks Associated With Laser Hair Removal?
Patients
should always investigate the dangers or side effects associated with any
medical procedure, even a cosmetic one. People seeking laser hair removal in
Philadelphia will be pleased to know the procedure is very safe with only a few
potential complications.
Possible Risks:
Pain - There is a small amount of
discomfort associated with laser hair removal, often compared to the snap of a rubber
band. Some patients may have minor pain like that of a mild sunburn, which will
generally fades in a few days.
Discoloration - Laser hair removal Philadelphia can cause
swelling and redness to the treated area, again similar to a sunburn. In some
cases, the procedure can cause a temporary darkening of the skin in the area
treated. These problems will go away in a few days and are merely cosmetic.
Hypopigmentation - Laser hair removal destroys hair
without damaging the skin because the wavelength of the light is tuned to the
color of the hair. The ideal patient has very dark hair and very light skin.
Patients with darker skin tones and/or light hair colors may find the procedure
causes a permanent lightening of the skin in the treated area. Depending on
your doctor's recommendation, you may need to look at other hair removal
options instead.
Scarring - Permanent scarring is extremely
rare, much rarer than other cosmetic procedures, but can still occur
particularly with inexperienced practitioners. If you have a history of
abnormal scarring, be sure to mention this to your doctor before undergoing the
procedure.
Preparing For the Procedure:
Patients
can take action to minimize the risks associated with laser hair removal. These
few simple steps increase the chance of success and reduce the possibility of a
negative outcome.
First of
all, be honest with your doctor about any and all medical conditions. Be sure
to tell the doctor if you have herpes since the procedure can cause an outbreak
so may require you to take an antiviral medication beforehand. Any history of
skin problems such as pigmentation changes or abnormal scarring from other
procedures should be reported as well.
Since the
procedure works best on light skin, stay out of the sun as much as possible. Avoid
tanning. Your doctor might even suggest using a bleaching cream to lighten your
skin, though don't use one unless the doctor suggests it. Avoid plucking or
waxing beforehand and make sure the area is clean and makeup free on the day of
the procedure.
The most
important step you can take is to find a practitioner who specializes in laser
procedures and has long experience. There are many practices offering laser
hair removal Philadelphia, so don't settle for someone who does it now and
then. Find an expert so you can be sure you will get the best outcome possible.
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