Laser Hair Removal: Are there any contraindications?

Gold salts (chrysotherapy) are typically used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis or in certain types of blistering dermatoses. However, a study has shown that the combination of laser treatment and the intake of gold salts can induce chrysiasis, a deposit of gold in the skin.

Photosensitivity is one of the side effects of certain medications such as diuretics, anxiolytics, cough syrups, etc. If you are taking a medication that contains at least one photosensitizing agent, it is better to avoid laser hair removal because your skin will be more sensitive and will tend to show burns after the hair removal session.

Herpes and cold sores are considered contagious skin diseases. Therefore, it is advised against using laser hair removal in cases of herpes and cold sores, as the laser can trigger new outbreaks. Indeed, it is possible that the dormant virus remains asleep and reactivates due to local stress exerted by the laser. In cases of known history, it is recommended to take precautions by consulting your doctor to prevent the disease before hair removal sessions.

There is no evidence that laser can alter a mole and make it cancerous. However, it is wise not to remove hair from an area containing moles, as well as any other skin lesion such as acne pimples, warts, or even psoriasis.

Laser hair removal targets the hair follicle. Since waxing removes the root of the hair, it is generally recommended to wait two weeks before undergoing laser hair removal. If you wish to get rid of unwanted hair between sessions, consider other alternatives such as shaving and depilatory creams.

Laser hair removal can be performed on areas of the body that are free from tattoos. However, it is not recommended to perform this type of hair removal on tattooed areas, as it could potentially fade the tattoo. If you have a tattoo and are considering laser hair removal, it is advised to consult with a healthcare professional.

Laser hair removal specifically targets the melanin present in hair. However, blonde, white, or gray hairs, which contain a low amount of melanin, generally do not respond effectively to this method. In these cases, there is a risk that the laser may instead target the melanin in the skin, which could potentially cause skin burns.

Individuals with a deep tan tend to have a higher melanin level. Therefore, the laser may not differentiate between the hair and the skin, leading to potential skin burns and reduced effectiveness.

Puberty is characterized by a period of significant hormonal changes that can influence hair growth. However, these hormonal fluctuations can make the results of laser hair removal less predictable, as new hairs may appear over time. Therefore, it is preferable to wait until the hormonal fluctuations of puberty stabilize before starting a laser hair removal treatment.

Anticoagulant medications can make the skin more fragile and sensitive to treatments, including laser hair removal. This could increase the risk of irritation or burning. Additionally, anticoagulant medications can heighten the risk of bleeding or bruising.Seek advice from your doctor before any hair removal session.