Is it OK to get laser hair removal with ingrown hairs?

Author: Pablo Bradtke DDS  |  Last update: Monday, November 24, 2025

Does Laser Hair Removal Still Work if I Have Ingrown Hairs? Yes! Laser hair removal still works if you currently have ingrown hairs. The laser technology works by discerning the dark pigment in the skin, called melanin, and delivers heat to destroy the darker area–the hair follicle.

Can I get laser hair removal if I have ingrown hairs?

The best solution to get rid of ingrown hairs, other than waiting for them to go away on their own, is to seek out laser hair removal. By killing the hair at the root, you will slowly see less and less hairs growing back, reducing the amount of ingrown hairs growing under the skin.

When should you not get 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.

Can you get laser hair removal with bumps?

Answer: Razor bumps hello, yes you can still get laser hair removal with razor bumps. Actually, the laser should help this out by reducing the number of hairs it will also help the razor bumps and ingrown hairs over time.

Who is not a good candidate for laser hair removal?

Individuals with certain medical conditions such as active skin infections, herpes simplex virus (HSV) outbreaks in the treatment area, lupus, diabetes, or a history of keloid scarring may not be suitable candidates for laser hair removal.

Laser Hair Removal Ingrown Hairs - How To Get Rid Of Ingrown Hair

What makes you a bad candidate for laser hair removal?

Who Should Avoid Laser Hair Removal. People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.

What no one tells you about laser hair removal?

Fact — Laser hair treatments don't work as well, and sometimes not at all on very fair or blond hair. The laser hair removal treatment requires pigment in the hair, or the beam of light will not reach the hair follicle. Hair that is gray or blond has less pigment, which can make laser hair removal ineffective.

What happens if you laser hair removal over a pimple?

Laser hair removal and active breakouts don't mix well. The laser targets pigment in the hair follicle, but any inflammation or infection around the skin can cause irritation or make the acne worse. It's best to wait until your breakouts have cleared up before starting laser treatments.

Can you do laser hair removal over folliculitis?

Yes, it can be the short answer, however, there are a number of factors that are specific to the individual and its effectiveness. These include the cause of your folliculitis and your suitability for laser hair removal treatment.

How long do bumps last after laser hair removal?

For most people, laser hair removal only causes minimal side effects like temporary redness and tingling lasting 24 hours or less. Some individuals experience more troublesome bumps, breakouts, and irritation lasting days to weeks.

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.

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 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.

Is waxing or laser better for ingrown hairs?

If you're someone who regularly struggles with ingrown hairs, you may be considering more effective solutions to keep them from coming back. Laser hair removal stands out as one of the few treatments capable of completely preventing ingrown hairs in the long term.

How to get rid of a deep ingrown hair?

Use warm — not hot — water and small, circular motions to wash your affected areas with a washcloth, exfoliating brush or exfoliating gel or scrub. You can also remove an ingrown hair that has looped or curled back into your skin by gently pulling it out with a sterile needle, pin or tweezers.

Will insurance cover laser hair removal for ingrown hairs?

The cost will vary depending on the body part you want to treat, healthcare professional's fees, geographic location, and other factors. In most cases, laser hair removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance.

What happens if you laser over an ingrown hair?

Laser hair removal can actually remove ingrown hairs rather than simply alleviate the irritation that they cause. You can get laser hair removal even while you have ingrown hairs and the treatment will still be as effective and even lead to permanent hair removal after enough laser hair removal sessions.

What is a clogged hair follicle in the pubic area?

An ingrown pubic hair cyst is a fluid-filled sac under your skin caused by an ingrown hair blocking your hair follicle (the tube where hair grows). It can turn an ingrown hair bump into a bigger lump.

Will folliculitis go away if I stop shaving?

If the condition is caused by shaving, try to avoid shaving the area for a few weeks. Or use shaving cream or gel and always shave in the direction that the hair grows. Try using an electric razor that doesn't shave so close. Wear loose clothing, especially if it's hot or humid outside.

Does laser bring out pimples?

Skin Irritation – Laser treatment can irritate the skin, leading to inflammation and redness. This irritation can sometimes trigger acne-like breakouts, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.

How to prevent folliculitis after laser hair removal?

Hygiene: Maintain cleanliness in the affected area. Moisturize: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Avoid Shaving: Prevent further irritation in the area. Loose Clothing: To reduce friction on the affected skin.

Can I pop pimples after laser?

Dr. Soni advises against popping the pimples, as this can lead to further complications like infections, scarring, or hyperpigmentation. Popping pimples can also prolong the healing process and detract from the overall results of your laser hair removal treatment.

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.

Where to avoid laser hair removal?

Where On My Body Should I Not Get Laser Hair Removal? – Important Tips and Considerations
  • Areas near the eyes.
  • Spots where the hair is too thick.
  • Areas around the vaginal tissue.
  • Untreated ingrown hairs.
  • Contact us about how we can safely remove unwanted hair from your body.

Why do I look 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.

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