If you’ve just had a laser hair removal treatment or are considering scheduling your first appointment, you’re likely curious about what to expect after the procedure. One common question of every potential patient is “post-treatment swelling.” But don’t worry—this is a natural part of this cosmetic process. In this blog, we’ll tell you in detail what laser hair removal swelling looks like, why it happens, and how to manage it.
Why Does Swelling Occur After Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal targets your hair follicles with intense pulsed light (IPL) or laser energy to inhibit future hair growth. The laser’s heat damages the follicle, disrupting its ability to produce unwanted hair. This cosmetic process can cause temporary swelling and redness as your skin responds to the treatment.
Swelling is more common in areas with dark hair and in regions with more sensitive skin, such as the upper lip or bikini line. People with dark hair and light skin tend to see the best results from laser hair removal treatment, but they may also notice more pronounced skin reactions. Let’s learn more about what laser hair removal sales look like.
How to Identify Swelling After Laser Hair Removal?
Swelling after laser hair removal, known as “perifollicular edema,” typically appears as small, raised bumps around the treated hair follicles. These bumps can look like tiny pimples or mild hives, but they are usually not painful. The surrounding skin may appear slightly red, similar to a mild sunburn.
Here’s what you might notice:
- Localized bumps appear around individual hair follicles and are more prominent in areas with thicker hair.
- The treated area may look red or pink, particularly on sensitive skin.
- The skin may feel warm, but this sensation generally subsides within a few hours.
- Laser treatment should not result in severe skin irritation, blistering, or burns.
Factors That Affect Swelling after Laser Hair Removal
Several factors can influence the severity of swelling after a laser hair removal session. Here are a few to keep in mind!
Type of Your Skin
If you have sensitive or fair skin, you may experience more noticeable swelling.
Treatment Area
Areas like your upper lip or underarms, where your skin is thinner, are more prone to swelling.
Hair Type
Darker hair on your skin tends to absorb more laser energy, which can cause greater skin reactions.
Exposure to Sun
Skin exposed to the sun recently is more sensitive and may react more strongly.
How Long Does Swelling Last?
Now, let’s talk about the swelling time! Well, swelling after laser hair removal treatment is typically short-lived. For most people, the bumps and the redness fade within a few hours to a day. In rare cases, mild swelling can persist for up to 48 hours. If the swelling lasts longer or worsens, consult your cosmetic physician or dermatologist immediately!
How to Manage Swelling After Laser Hair Removal
Managing post-treatment swelling is straightforward! Here are some tips for you to soothe your skin after the procedure!
Apply a Cold Compress
Pressing a cold, damp cloth against the treated area can reduce swelling and relieve skin irritation.
Skip the Hot Showers
Avoid hot showers, steam rooms, and saunas for at least 24 hours after the laser hair removal treatment. Heat can exacerbate swelling and irritation.
Use Soothing Products
Fragrance-free, gentle skincare products like hydrocortisone cream or aloe vera gel can reduce redness and calm skin. So make sure you use them!
Avoid Sun Exposure
After your laser hair removal session, protecting your skin from the sun is super important. The sun’s UV rays can aggravate irritation and increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. If you must go outside, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Avoid Harsh Exfoliation
Avoid scrubs, peels, or any exfoliating products for a few days after laser hair removal. These can irritate your skin further.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is the key! Drinking plenty of water can help your body recover faster and hydrate your skin. Keep a bottle of water with you for a week after the treatment.
Preventing Swelling in Future Sessions
While some swelling is inevitable, there are a few steps you can take to minimize it:
- Avoid tanning beds and sun exposure before your appointment. This ensures your skin is in its natural state, reducing the chances of irritation.
- Your cosmetic physician or aesthetic physician will provide specific aftercare guidelines. Following these instructions is key to avoiding complications.
- If you have a history of sensitive skin or allergies, inform your doctor before the session.
Laser Hair Removal Vs. Other Hair Removal Methods
Swelling and redness are common with laser hair removal, but how does it compare to other hair removal methods? Let’s learn!
Shaving
Shaving generally doesn’t cause swelling but can cause razor burns and ingrown hairs. Laser hair removal treatment eliminates the need for constant shaving by reducing future hair growth.
Waxing
Waxing can also cause swelling, especially in sensitive areas. However, the swelling from waxing is more painful than the mild irritation from a laser treatment.
Epilation
Epilation pulls hair out from the root, which can cause swelling similar to laser hair removal but without the benefit of long-term results.
Maintenance Laser Treatments
Achieving hair-free skin isn’t a one-and-done deal. You’ll need multiple laser hair removal sessions. For some, periodic maintenance laser treatments may be necessary to fix any regrowth, especially those with light-colored hair.
Conclusion
So, what does laser hair removal swelling look like? It’s generally mild, with small, raised bumps that will fade quickly. While swelling is a normal response to the laser’s action on your hair follicles, it’s manageable with proper and professional care.
Understanding what to expect and taking the right precautions can make your laser hair removal treatment a useful experience. Say hello to silky, irritation-free skin and goodbye to unwanted
hair!
Call Skin Artistry Clinic for Laser Hair Removal & More
Contact the Skin Artistry Clinic, led by Dr. Faiqa Chaudhry, a certified physician and specialist in wellness and anti-aging treatments, serving Alamo, Danville, Walnut Creek, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Our services include treatments like SKINVIVE™ by JUVÉDERM, IPL skin rejuvenation “photofacial,” IPL/Laser hair removal, KYBELLA, and microneedling with PRP (commonly known as the “vampire facial”), among many others. Call our expert aesthetic physicians today to book your consultation and discover the path to healthier, rejuvenated skin!