How Can I Avoid Laser Hair Removal Burns?

Laser hair removal is a routine and popular cosmetic treatment that has helped millions of people reduce unwanted hair growth and get smoother, clearer skin they can feel confident about. While there are relatively few risks associated with laser hair removal when performed by a skilled and knowledgeable provider, the improper use of laser hair removal can result in complications, like first-degree burns. At Fontaine MD Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medicine in San Diego, CA, board-certified physician Dr. James D. Fontaine and our team of aesthetic experts are highly skilled and experienced in the proper administration of laser hair removal and use only the safest and most advanced laser technologies available today, ensuring successful treatment and minimal risks. In addition, we take great care to educate patients on laser hair removal aftercare to protect their skin from damage and irritation between treatments. In this blog, you’ll find helpful information on how to avoid laser hair removal burns and keep your skin healthy and soothed throughout your course of treatment.

The process of laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is typically performed over the course of several months, with most patients needing around 4 – 6 treatments at an average of one-month intervals to achieve their desired level of hair growth reduction. This laser hair removal treatment schedule allows all the hair follicles to be treated during their active phase of growth, which is when laser hair removal is most effective.

During a laser hair removal treatment session at Fontaine MD Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medicine, patients will be provided with protective eyewear and positioned comfortably in one of our reclining treatment chairs. Once the skin has been cleansed to remove makeup and debris, a topical numbing agent may be applied if desired – though most patients tolerate the mild discomfort of laser hair removal without anesthetic cream. One of our certified laser providers will then pass the handpiece over the target treatment area(s), administering pulses of laser energy to precisely heat and destroy hair follicles. At the conclusion of the treatment, a soothing agent – such as aloe – will be applied to minimize irritation, and sunscreen will also be used to protect the skin.

What causes laser hair removal burns?

Although rare, laser hair removal can cause mild to moderate burns on the skin’s surface. The most common causes of laser hair removal burns are:

• Inexperienced providers
• Excessive heat
• Improper laser calibration

Additionally, skin irritations and burns can develop after laser hair removal if patients do not adhere to their aftercare instructions.

How to avoid burns after laser hair removal

To reduce your risk of laser hair removal burns, use these important tips:

• Choose a highly qualified, certified laser hair removal provider supervised by a board-certified physician
• Let your provider know about any medications, including antibiotics, that you may be taking – as this can increase your skin’s sensitivity
• For women, let your provider know if you may be on your period or recently finished a period – as this can increase your skin’s sensitivity
• Avoid sun exposure before, during, and after laser hair removal treatments
• Do not use tanning beds

With these choices and behaviors, you can ensure the most comfortable, successful, and low-risk laser hair removal treatment possible and enjoy the exciting results you deserve.

Get safe and effective laser hair removal in San Diego, CA

When it comes to something as sensitive and important as your skin, it’s not worth taking a chance on an inexperienced provider or what looks to be a bargain. To ensure you receive a safe, comfortable, and successful laser hair removal treatment in San Diego, call Fontaine MD Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medicine to schedule your consultation with board-certified physician and certified laser provider Dr. James D. Fontaine today.