Does anesthesia affect laser hair removal?

Author: Jaqueline Gutkowski  |  Last update: Saturday, December 13, 2025

Topical 5% lidocaine anesthesia was effective in reducing pain, though not completely, for both the alexandrite and the diode lasers.

How soon can you have laser hair removal after surgery?

Answer: Laser Hair Removal After Surgery

Laser hair removal is safe to do near a scar as soon as the scar is completely healed.

What makes laser hair removal ineffective?

Ineffective laser hair removal may be a result of inappropriate wavelength, underpowered laser (low fluence or hand piece that requires replacement), underlying medical or hormonal condition (ie testosterone levels, et), or provider with not using appropriate technique or settings.

What medication reacts with laser hair removal?

Due to the severity of the side effects and complications, laser treatment should not be done at the same time as taking medications such as Roaccutane and Retin-A for acne, as well as any other photosensitive drug. This includes a number of antidepressants and antihistamines.

Do they give anesthesia for laser hair removal?

Answer: Laser Hair Removal Doesn't Require Sedation Laser hair removal does not require you to be put to sleep. The most you'll require is numbing cream to alleviate any discomfort, although this isn't necessary either depending on your sensitivity. The cost of each session is based on area targeted.

The Truth of Laser Hair Removal: Who it’s for & NOT for? Best Results? | Dr. Shereene Idriss

Who Cannot do laser hair removal?

So are women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. They should wait until they have had the baby before starting a course of treatment. People with keloid scars or healing problems like hypertrophic scars should not have laser hair removal.

Does anesthesia mess with your hair?

However, most people are unaware that it's the anesthesia that can alter your tresses negatively. One of the most common effects is increased hair shedding, which may begin two to four months after surgery and can last for up to three months. This occurs due to the rapid increase in stress levels within the body.

When to avoid laser hair removal?

Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
  1. Are pregnant.
  2. Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
  3. Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
  4. Have keloid scars (raised scars).
  5. Have or have had skin cancer.

Why is my hair growing back 2 days after laser?

This is a sign that the laser successfully treated the follicle, and it's clearing out the dead hair shaft. This shedding process, also called “peppering,” can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. In some cases, it may feel like the hair is growing back because it's breaking through the skin.

What stops laser hair removal from working?

What are the reasons why laser hair treatment might not be working for you?
  • You didn't time your treatments correctly: Proper treatment times are essential. ...
  • Hair Type and Color: ...
  • You might have a hormonal imbalance: ...
  • Hair Growth Rate or Cycle: ...
  • You waxed before treatments:

Do people ever regret laser hair removal?

While laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, it doesn't always eliminate it completely, and some may still require occasional touch-ups. Skin reactions can also play a role in feelings of regret, although this is rare when the procedure is done correctly.

How can I maximize my laser hair removal results?

Here are some suggestions on how to get the most out of laser hair removal.
  1. Avoid Sun Exposure and Tanning: ...
  2. Shave before each treatment: ...
  3. Avoid Plucking and Waxing: ...
  4. Exfoliating: ...
  5. Follow the recommended treatment schedule: ...
  6. Communicate openly with your technician: ...
  7. Take care of your skin post-treatment:

Is it bad to laser pubic hair?

The laser targets the hair follicle without impacting the surrounding skin, and it's FDA-approved as safe and effective for all skin tones. Studies show that laser hair removal is extremely effective for the bikini area, only outperformed by treatments on legs, arms, and underarms.

What I wish I knew before laser hair removal?

I wish I knew this before laser hair removal
  • Preparation is crucial.
  • It's also important to skip plucking, waxing, or electrolysis.
  • Laser hair removal isn't a one-and-done solution.
  • Another often overlooked aspect is the potential for maintenance treatments.

How to speed up shedding after laser hair removal?

The best way to help speed up shedding after your laser hair removal treatment is by gentle exfoliation once or twice a week once you start to see signs of your hair starting to shed.

Why can't you shower after laser hair removal?

Soni advises waiting at least 24 hours before showering after laser hair removal. It's best to avoid water exposure for a full day to allow the treated area time to heal. Showering too soon can disrupt results and cause issues like: Infection from bacteria entering microscopic blisters or openings.

Why am I hairier after laser hair removal?

Hair Shedding – After a laser hair removal treatment, it's common for the treated hair to shed. This shedding process can take 10-14 days post treatment. And during this time, it may appear as though the hair is growing back thicker and darker. However, this is simply the hair follicle shedding the treated hair.

How many laser sessions before hair stops growing?

Generally, clients need about two to six laser treatments in order to completely get rid of hair. You can expect to see about a 10% to 25% reduction in hair after your first treatment. As you continue your treatments, more and more hair will fall out, and you'll notice that it continues to grow back more slowly.

What happens if I shave 3 days after laser?

After undergoing the treatment, hairs begin a shedding phase which can last between 10 to 14 days. It's crucial during this period to let the hairs naturally fall out. Shaving too early can risk complications like ingrown hairs and other skin irritations.

What hair cannot be lasered?

Blond, fine hairs cannot be targeted by the lasers and therefore, cannot be removed with this method. Waxing is a better choice for light colored hair. Individuals with darker skin tones or who tan easily, may have a harder time getting results from laser hair removal.

Who cannot have an IPL?

The higher melanin content in darker skin can inadvertently absorb more light energy, leading to adverse effects such as burns, changes in skin pigmentation, or scarring. Thus, while not absolutely contraindicated, IPL is used very carefully or avoided in individuals with darker skin tones.

What deodorant is best after laser hair removal?

Dr. Soni suggests choosing aluminum-free deodorants to avoid potential irritation, as aluminum compounds can be drying. Unscented natural deodorant alternatives also tend to be less irritating for compromised skin.

How long does it take for general anesthesia to leave your system?

The effects of having a general anaesthetic can last for around 24 hours or even longer if you've had a major operation. You may feel tired or sometimes exhausted afterwards, and this might last for a few days. The healing process after a big operation can also leave you feeling very tired.

What are the vitamins for hair growth?

Key Vitamins for Hair Growth
  • Biotin. Biotin is a critical vitamin for healthy hair growth, and deficiency will lead to thinning hair. ...
  • Vitamin D. ...
  • Vitamin A. ...
  • Vitamin C. ...
  • Vitamin E. ...
  • Folic Acid. ...
  • Iron. ...
  • Magnesium.

What are the three side effects of anesthesia?

You may experience side effects such as:
  • Sleepiness.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Sore throat.
  • Mild hoarseness.
  • Shivering.
  • Itching.
  • Blurry vision.

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