Is Laser Hair Removal Safe While Pregnant?

The word “laser” makes most of us apprehensive when paired with beauty treatments. You might get visions of sci-fi film laser guns pointed at you during a hair removal session, but trust us, it’s not that scary.

At different points in our lives, we can feel more vulnerable and concerned about the beauty procedures we undergo. Questions such as “Can you get laser hair removal while pregnant?” and “Does laser hair removal interact with medications?” are likely to be on your mind if you can relate to any of these situations.

Wanting to know whether a beauty treatment is safe or not and the likelihood of adverse reactions is a completely natural response. So, let’s uncover how safe laser hair removal really is, to give you peace of mind.

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Understanding How Laser Hair Removal Works

A lack of understanding about how a procedure is carried out only stokes the flames of fear. What we don’t know leaves a lot of space for speculation. So, let’s clear up the confusion.

Laser hair removal works by using a concentrated beam of light to target and destroy the hair’s follicles. 

A professional laser is powerful enough to damage the hair’s root, preventing it from regrowing in the future. However, it’s not so intense that it will cause injury to the skin. In the hands of a trained professional, the laser hair removal tool is safely operated.

Is Laser Hair Removal Safe During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, women are advised to avoid most treatments to minimize the occurrence of adverse effects that could harm both mother and baby. From Brazilian blowouts to Botox, these are best left until after breastfeeding.

In addition to the above, you may have heard that laser hair removal during pregnancy is not advisable. This is not because laser hair removal has been found unsafe, but due to the lack of evidence to prove the procedure’s safety. It’s a case of being better safe than sorry.

If I Have a Health Condition, Can I Still Get Laser Hair Removal?

Depending on the health condition, you may have to seek advice from a healthcare professional. However, there are specific health issues where laser hair removal treatment is best avoided.

People living with skin conditions such as active infections (herpes simplex virus), keloid scarring, or skin cancer should not undergo laser hair removal. Diabetics may also need to be careful, as they can experience an increased risk of burns and slow healing. However, this should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, as everyone’s health background is different.

If you are thinking about getting laser hair removal, but you have a long-term health issue, it is best to discuss it with a doctor first. This will ease your worries before booking your laser hair removal sessions.

Can Laser Hair Removal Interact with Certain Medications?

If you take medication regularly, you may be used to checking for interactions between supplements and even food. But did you know that beauty treatments can also ring alarm bells for contraindications?

It’s best to double-check your medications prior to booking laser hair removal sessions, especially if medicines or topical creams react to exposure to sunlight. A common medication that adversely reacts with laser treatment is the acne prescription “Accutane”.

What are the Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?

If you follow the rules and recommendations set out by a laser hair removal technician, the likelihood of experiencing side effects is low. Laser hair removal can cause mild skin irritation, redness, and swelling. If you are concerned about any symptoms after a session, get in touch with your technician.

Who Is Laser Hair Removal Safe for?

On the whole, laser hair removal is a safe beauty treatment. There are some groups of people for whom laser hair removal is not only safe, but also shows positive results. Typically, individuals with dark hair and lighter skin tones are most likely to experience permanent hair removal.

However, laser technology has advanced to accommodate darker skin and hair tones, so that more people can get the smooth, hair-free results they are after. A professional laser hair removal specialist will advise on which machine to use, depending on skin and hair type and color.

How to Minimize Risks

In a reputable salon, you will be briefed on what to do and what not to do before your appointment. If you are not told anything, see it as a red flag and rebook your sessions at a professional place. It’s not worth the risk.

To sum up what a professional laser hair removal expert will tell you, here’s a mini-guide to dos and don’ts.

Do

• Keep the skin clean and clear of lotions to allow for better laser penetration.
• Shave the area two days before, to expose all hairs.
• Tell your technician about your health conditions and medications beforehand.
• Wear SPF for a week or so after each session, as your skin will be sensitive to sunlight.
• Opt for sensitive skincare or natural aloe vera gel to soothe the area afterwards.

Don’t

• Wax or pluck the area for approximately 6 weeks before the session.
• Sunbathe or use tanning beds before or after the session, as they increase the risk of burning.
• Swim in pools or use saunas for 48 hours after your session.
• Apply scented lotions, deodorants, or sprays for up to two days, as these can irritate the skin.

If you have any concerns, please consult a medical professional. However, by being transparent about your health and following the rules set out by your laser hair removal technician, there is no reason why your sessions should be anything but safe and successful.