What are the risks of laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal. Some hair could be resistant to the laser treatment or grow again after treatment – although the new hair growth might be finer and lighter in color.

Possible laser hair removal side effects include:

• Mild swelling around the hair follicles
• Pigment changes may occur, especially in those with darker skin – these changes are usually temporary
• Slight redness of the skin
• Temporary irritation resulting in blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture

Special care must be taken for those with darker skin. A less intensive laser should be used to avoid damaging the outer skin.

Anyone who has tanned, used a spray tan or gone to a tanning booth should wait until the tan has faded as the pigment in the skin absorbs the laser light and reduces the effectiveness of the treatment.

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It's important that you address all your questions directly with your laser hair reduction provider.