FAQs
Specifically, Skin cancer primarily develops due to excessive exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. As discussed above, Laser hair removal devices do not emit UV rays and therefore do not contribute to the risk of skin cancer.
Can you get laser hair removal with history of skin cancer? ›
Some researchers have observed changes in atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) after laser hair removal. Therefore, they suggest caution in the use of cosmetic laser therapy for people with a personal or family history of skin cancer or atypical moles. However, for most, laser hair removal is safe.
Is laser hair removal safe against cancer? ›
Laser hair removal operates within a spectrum of light that is non-ionizing and deemed safe for skin exposure. This means it does not break down chemical bonds or cause mutations in DNA, which are critical factors in the development of cancer.
Who should not get laser hair removal? ›
Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
- Are pregnant.
- Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
- Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
- Have keloid scars (raised scars).
- Have or have had skin cancer.
What makes you a bad candidate for laser hair removal? ›
People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.
Does laser prevent skin cancer? ›
BOSTON – New research indicates that simple laser treatments to the skin may help to prevent the development of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are collectively known as keratinocyte carcinoma and are the most common types of cancer diagnosed in the United States.
Can you have laser hair removal if you have had melanoma? ›
No. As skin cancer is connected with the lymphatic systems it is best not to be treated for laser hair removal.
What is the danger of laser hair removal? ›
Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include graying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, particularly on darker skin.
Is laser hair removal harmful long term? ›
There do not appear to be any long-term health risks associated with the procedure. However, some people may experience minor side effects after laser hair removal. People should ask their dermatologist to test how a small patch of skin reacts to the treatment before having it done on a larger area of skin.
What are the disadvantages of laser treatment? ›
Risks
- Redness, swelling, itching and pain. Treated skin may swell, itch or have a burning sensation. ...
- Acne. Applying thick creams and bandages to your face after treatment can worsen acne or cause you to temporarily develop tiny white bumps (milia) on treated skin.
- Infection. ...
- Changes in skin color. ...
- Scarring.
Regret usually stems from choosing the wrong provider. While laser hair removal itself is rarely regrettable, what can lead to regret is choosing the wrong provider. A cheap, inexperienced clinic may use outdated equipment or incorrect techniques, leading to less effective treatment or even unwanted side-effects.
Should I laser my pubic hair? ›
' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.
What they don t tell you about laser hair removal? ›
Fact — Laser hair treatments don't work as well, and sometimes not at all on very fair or blond hair. The laser hair removal treatment requires pigment in the hair, or the beam of light will not reach the hair follicle. Hair that is gray or blond has less pigment, which can make laser hair removal ineffective.
Is laser hair removal considered radiation? ›
Laser hair treatments don't use ionizing radiation. That means your cells are left intact, and there's no cancer risk as a result of treatment.
Is laser hair removal on the face bad? ›
Laser hair removal on the face is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner. However, safety can vary depending on factors such as your skin type, hair colour, and the quality of the equipment used.
What happens if you laser skin cancer? ›
Lasers do this by vaporizing the uppermost layers of the skin. The benefit of this technique for precancerous lesions and, in limited cases, very early basal cell carcinomas, is that the procedure is relatively short and healing occurs more quickly. Also, laser can treat multiple lesions at once.
Can I get laser hair removal if I have moles? ›
Can you still do laser hair removal on an area where you have moles? Yes, you can. Your practitioner should take extra care, to assess the skin for any visible moles and cover these with white pencil. This way you can avoid the laser light to be attracted the cluster while laser the surrounding skin.
Can HPV be transmitted by laser hair removal? ›
Conclusions: Laser hair removal was positively associated with positive HPV transmission.