Complications of Laser Hair Removal New Jersey

While laser hair removal remains one of the safest non-invasive ccosmetic procedures, there is possibility of complications following the treatments. Newer lasers and proper training make this occurrence unlikely, however even the most experience laser hair removal provider will experience complications.

The most common complications include pigment changes such as hyperpigmentation (darkening of are of skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of skin). Problems of changes in pigment as a result of laser hair removal tend to be more common in the darker skin types such as Mediterrean, South American, South Asian, Middle Eastern, and African American. Lasers work on the principles of selective photothermolysis meaning they target pigment such as melanin located in hair follicles. Lighter skin types have a relative lack of melanin than darker skin types. The melanin present in skin can also attract laser energy causing pigment changes, burns, and rarely scarring.

Most of the burns I have seen has been inappropraite utilization of the wrong laser or light based device for the specific skin type. Many salons and medical spas utilize laser technician to perform the laser hair removal. Often times, they use IPL or intense pulsed light, on the darker skin types. While IPL can be utilized it has to be performed with caution. A better choice is the YAG laser which has less absorption by the surrounding skin in the darker skin types.

In the event of any complications from the laser hair removal procedure, it is imperative you notify your provider immediately to mitigate any permanent effects. Most cases of pigment changes tend to be temporary and will normalize over several months to up to a year. Hyperpigmentation is easier to treat than hypopigmentation. Hyperpigmentation can be treated by a variety of lightening agents such as hydroquinone, Vitamin C, l-arbutin, azelaic acid, and kojic acid. Sunscreen is also an integral part of any treatment program to normalize pigment abnormalities arising from the laser hair removal procedure.

It is also possible to sustain burns from the laser hair removal. Remember that a laser is a highly focused beam of light. Excessive redness, pain, grayish discoloration, or blister formation are signs of a laser burn. The most important aspect of care is to keep it moist and covered with antibiotic ointment and/or pertrolatum jelly. Daily dressing change and frequent wound checks are the rule rather than an exception. Once the new skin has formed, it is important to avoid excessive sun exposure and utilize sunscreen to prevent exacerbation of the ensuing pigment changes.

At Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center, only a board certified physician specially trained in the application of laser technology will perform the laser hair removal treatments. We also have many different types of lasers and light based devices to treat different skin and hair types. We invite you for a complimentary consultation for the laser hair removal procedure at our spa in Summit, NJ. Call 908-273-5400 to schedule your consultation. You can also visit LaserHairNJ for more information on the laser hair removal procedure.