Laser Hair Removal Side Effects

Laser hair removal is a clinical procedure with a proven track record for safety and efficacy. By targeting the hair follicles with focused light, it offers long-lasting hair reduction. 

Today’s advanced technologies make this treatment gentler than ever, but some laser hair removal side effects are still common — especially a little redness and swelling. 

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the side effects of laser hair removal, from the more common to the rare, how to prevent them, and what to expect from your treatment.

Common Side Effects

These are the most common side effects of laser hair removal. They happen frequently, but are not a cause for concern. They usually disappear quickly. 

Redness (Erythema) 

Redness is the most common laser hair removal side effect, typically lasting for just a few hours. It’s a typical inflammatory response to the laser’s heat

Swelling (Perifollicular Edema)

Swelling after laser hair removal is common. It’s called perifollicular edema, and it typically only affects the hair follicles themselves. Like redness, this side effect is also part of the inflammatory response. In most cases, the swelling only lasts for a few hours, and rarely more than 3 days. 

Tenderness/Itchiness 

Finally, the skin may feel a little tender or itchy after laser hair removal. The sensation is similar to a very mild sunburn. If there is any discomfort, it usually goes away within hours of treatment, if not sooner. 

Laser Hair Removal Risks & Adverse Events

There’s a big difference between common, expected laser hair removal side effects and the less common risks. Researchers estimate that adverse reactions to laser hair removal only occur in 0.69% of cases, as opposed to redness or swelling, which occur after most treatments.

The risks of laser hair removal range widely in severity, and can include: 

Hyperpigmentation or Hypopigmentation

Pigmentation changes, such as hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening), can occur when the wrong laser is used for the patient’s skin tone. This type of reaction can take a few months to fade, but it’s increasingly less common thanks to modern laser technology. 

Allergic Reactions or Hives

Allergic or histamine reactions like hives may occur if laser hair removal activates the immune system. It typically results in a rash-like reaction, with redness, bumps, and itchiness, and resolves with time. 

Bruising or Pinpoint Bleeding

Bruising (ecchymosis), pinpoint bleeding (petechiae), or red/purple discoloration (purpura may occur if blood vessels have been injured by the laser. 

Infections Cold Sores

Cold sores can pop up after a laser treatment due to reactivation of the herpes virus. This only happens when the virus already exists in the body. Other infections may occur following a more severe burn. 

Burns/Blisters

Lasers can burn the skin, especially if your provider uses the wrong settings for your skin or you get treated after recent sun exposure or while your skin is tanned. This can then result in blistering, infection, scarring, and pigmentation. Modern laser hair removal protocols are in place to reduce the risk of burns as much as possible. 

Ocular Damage

Eye damage happens when no eye protection is used during your treatment. Your clinic should always provide protective goggles during any laser treatment

Paradoxical Hypertrichosis

Paradoxical hypertrichosis is a very rare condition where the laser stimulates the hair follicles instead of disabling them. It more commonly affects hormonal areas like the face, only impacting around 0.08% of patients whose faces are treated. To limit the risk, avoid getting laser hair removal on areas where you have very fine, non-terminal hair. 

What Increases the Risk of Side Effects

Common laser hair removal side effects, like redness, swelling, and tenderness, are a normal part of the treatment experience. However, some things can increase the risk of prolonged side effects or adverse events: 

• Sun exposure or using artificial tans before treatment
• Having makeup, lotions, or deodorants on your skin during treatment
• Getting treated with the wrong laser for your skin tone
• Exposing yourself to hot environments or intensive activities post-treatment 
• Failing to follow any other proper pre or post-care instructions

 A 1999 study found that the risk of negative effects was much greater when participants with deeper skin tones, for instance, were treated with low-wavelength lasers. This knowledge has helped shape modern protocols, including the ones we adhere to at SEV. 

In other words, when your treatment is performed by a trained professional who follows clinical guidelines, and you follow all of their treatment instructions, the risk of adverse events from laser hair removal is extremely low. 

How to Prevent Laser Hair Removal Side Effects 

• Choose a reputable clinic or med spa that can tailor your laser wavelength and settings to your skin tone and hair type. 
• Look for studios that offer cooling options, since cooling the skin’s surface has a protective effect. 
• Use sun protection diligently before and after your treatment as sun exposure greatly increases the risk of side effects.
• Avoid resurfacing treatments before and after laser hair removal, including skincare with exfoliants or retinoids, as well as professional facials or salon treatments. Our pre and post-care guide discusses this in more detail. 
• Keep things gentle & cool after the treatment by avoiding intense exercise, hot showers, and saunas or jacuzzis, and by wearing loose, comfortable clothing. 
• Use soothing, unscented products like aloe vera to nourish the skin immediately after.
• If you experience more noticeable discomfort or swelling, you can use topical hydrocortisone or even take an antihistamine post-treatment. 

Bottom Line

Laser hair removal is a safe clinical procedure. Its common side effects, like redness and swelling, disappear quickly. You can avoid most of the less common risks by choosing a reputable med spa that follows strict clinical guidelines, and following all treatment instructions — especially when it comes to sun exposure. 

At SEV, we have strict clinical protocols in place to ensure client safety. Every aspect of the service, from our thorough medical forms and clearance process to the pre and post-care instructions, exists to ensure maximum safety, efficacy, and comfort. 

We use dual-wavelength lasers from Candela and Cynosure, which allow us to tailor treatments to the client’s skin tone, further limiting risks. 

Now that you understand the side effects, risks, and how to prevent them from occurring, you’re invited to try laser hair removal for yourself. At SEV, your first session is free when you use code HELLOSMOOTH — go ahead and book at your nearest location.