It seems that the laser profession and reduction of hair with laser market on the whole are being driven by monetary concerns, with minimum importance given to rigorous medical studies. So what should you know about possible laser hair removal side effects? This article gives you the insight you need.

Laser Scarring
Scarring has been the most feared consequence effect of laser hair removal but thanks to the modern technology of Q switched and pulsed lasers, the incidence of scarring is now minimal.

Skin Darkening
Whatever the type of laser that is used, there may be hyper pigmentation of skin after exposure to lasers. In this side effect the skin is darkened as a result of increased pigment deposition. Usually tanned skin has a greater chance to experience this. On the plus side is that it can be effectively treated with the use of bleaching materials and does not last long.

Skin Lightening
Lightening of the skin, or hypo pigmentation, can be experienced, mainly in tanned skin types and where there are a large number of exposures to laser treatment. It normally does not last long; permanent hypo pigmentation is hardly ever seen. This side effect is mostly experienced with use of alexandrite, Q-switched ruby and Nd:YAG lasers.

Reddening
The skin may be transiently reddened after significant laser exposure. It is one of the minor laser hair removal risks. Proper cooling and the use of proper exposure time during the treatment minimizes this side effect.

Blistering of the Surface of the Skin
With the invention of new and efficient cooling devices, blistering has been pretty much eliminated as a laser hair removal side effect. Tissue cooling can be carried out through a contact chill tip or cryogen spray to protect the skin. These measures serve to protect the skin from over heating.

Effect on Tattoos
If there are tattoos in the area of skin being treated, you should be aware that darkening sometimes happens and discuss this with your doctor before undergoing laser treatment.

Post Operative Crusting
10% of patients treated for reduction of hair with laser with long-pulsed ruby and alexandrite lasers may experience crusting. This is often as a result of repeatedly over treating an area of skin with laser. When this occurs, appropriate post procedural care is highly recommended in order to avoid further side effects.

Infections
Wound infection is infrequent after laser treatment. In the unlikely event that any wounds are to be seen on the skin after reduction of hair with laser, infection can be controlled with antibiotic and anti viral materials.

The Risk of Eye Injury
Laser eye safety is vitally important during any treatment involving lasers. To prevent any damage to your eyes, wavelength-specific laser safety eye protection gear must be worn by both operators and patients.

In Closing
Assuming that you select a professional laser hair clinic, then in the hands of a fully experienced doctor with all the necessary safety precautions you will probably not experience any of the above laser hair removal risks.

Ingrid Preube
reduction of hair with laser