Hives can show up either immediately after laser treatment or begin days later. They typically last about 24-48 hours before fading. In nearly all cases, hives appear only around the area treated with the laser. This distinguishes them from hives with other causes that tend to be more widespread.
Most people find that sensitivity, redness, and mild swelling subside within 24-48 hours. If your skin still feels sensitive after this period, don't worry – some skin types may take a few extra days to return to normal. Avoid additional treatments until the skin is fully healed.
Keep the affected area moist and avoid direct sunlight. In rare cases, hives has been reported after laser hair reduction treatments. If you experience an irritated raised rash after treatment contact the office. Benadryl may be taken to help relieve the itchiness.
Redness, swelling, itching or stinging may last for a few days. Depending on the treatment, skin may even appear raw, ooze a yellow liquid and even blister. Don't scratch or pick at skin that crusts as this can cause scarring or lead to an infection.
The hallmark of a histamine reaction is the emergence of hives, also known as urticaria, which are raised, itchy welts on the skin. In the context of laser hair removal, if a histamine reaction occurs, hives typically appear shortly after the procedure and can last from a few hours to a couple of days.
Mild symptoms are completely normal side effects, including: Red bumps along treated areas that may look like a sunburn. Small whitehead pimples around hair follicles. Itchy or tingly skin with a rough texture.
Use cold compresses: Applying cold compresses during the first 24 to 48 hours after your treatment can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Stay cool: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for the first few days after treatment. Heat can increase inflammation and slow healing.
Immediate Care Tips for Post-Laser Recovery
Keep It Cool: Use cool compresses to soothe the skin. Apply gently to reduce swelling and discomfort. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and Moisturize: Hydration is key to skin recovery. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to help maintain moisture balance.
The Healing Process after Laser Treatment
As the skin heals, new collagen is produced, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin. The healing process after laser treatment typically occurs in three stages: inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.
If your skin is dry and irritated, apply an emollient such as an aftershave or a moisturizing lotion. Avoid products that contain fragrances, alcohol or other irritants. Natural oils such as avocado oil, coconut oil and olive oil can also help moisturize your skin. Avoid shaving the area of razor burn to help it heal.
Those bumps are frequently due to the skin glands being over stimulated by the laser which causes localized irritation and inflammation. The bumps look like milia or white heads. the bumps usually resolve themselves in a few days.
The most common side effects of laser hair removal include: Skin irritation. Temporary discomfort, redness and swelling are possible after laser hair removal. Any signs and symptoms typically disappear within several hours.
After Treatment
Apply a wrapped cool compress or wrapped ice pack to the treated areas for 15 minutes every 1–2 hours as needed to reduce these symptoms. You may also apply hydrocortisone 1% over-the-counter cream two times per day on intact skin up to 3 days to decrease any skin irritation.
While waiting for the treated hair to fall out naturally, you may still want to shave to remove any visible hair. However, it's crucial to wait until your skin has fully healed before shaving to avoid any irritation or damage, which can take up to two weeks.
It might be suggested that you apply some type of antibiotic cream or hydrocortisone cream topically over the affected areas. These topical creams help soothe the affected area and protect the skin. While many such creams are available over the counter it is best to use them only if prescribed by a doctor.
Creams based on natural ingredients such as aloe vera, calendula or chamomile are particularly effective in this respect, thanks in particular to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The immediate post laser treatment consists of covering the lasered skin with Vaseline (Aquaphor or whatever the specific product you are instructed to use) and using cold packs for discomfort and swelling. The best treatment to be comfortable is to apply cold compresses to the treated areas of the face.
Individuals up to their 50s benefit greatly from laser fractional resurfacing treatments. Skin concerns like sun damage and deeper wrinkles are common in this age group.
The short answer is Yes. The treated area may experience some reddening and swelling. After treatment, you can apply Vaseline, after-sun cream, or aloe Vera gel to the treated area for soothing skin. The area might need to be soothed by applying an ice pack when you use old laser technology.
The healing time for a laser hair removal burn can vary depending on the severity of the burn. In most cases, the burn will heal within 1-2 weeks. However, more severe burns can take longer to heal and may require specific aftercare, like post laser balm or medical barrier cream.
NEOSPORIN® Burn Relief First Aid Antibiotic Ointment helps relieve minor burn pain while allowing burns to heal properly by preventing infection. This topical first-aid ointment features a maximum-strength, no-sting formula to help soothe and reduce pain of minor burns, such as cooking burns.
Bumps and itching can also occur after laser hair removal. This is usually a sign that the hair is being shed from the follicle. Using a gentle exfoliating scrub can help remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs.