
Laser Hair Removal Side Effects
Any time you invest hard-earned money into a sizable purchase, you want to be aware of all the facts.
Say it’s a car. Sure, it looks great, and the ride is smooth. But what happens when you need to drive in poor weather? Will it still safely get you from A to B?
Or how about that new set of golf clubs? They look shiny and fancy, but will they last for years? And will they add a few yards to your game?
Examining all angles of a sizable purchase is crucial. The same holds when you’re considering laser hair removal. You have the goal of getting hair-free, and if you follow the instructions of a laser hair removal professional, that will indeed happen!
But it’s also important to be told about other variables. Although VERY rare, side effects are possible when getting laser hair removal treatment, and today, we’ll take a closer look at what those may look like.

Making sure that laser hair removal professionals accurately handle your treatment is key.


Who can get laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is the most effective hair removal method for banishing unwanted hair, and it works by laser light targeting the pigment in the hair follicles. The laser light overheats the follicles and destroys them so unwanted hair will never grow again! The hair growth is compromised, and it may take multiple laser treatments to see full results. Dark hair will absorb the most heat during a laser treatment. The great news about laser hair removal is that it works for everyone regardless of skin tone or skin type. But there is still a small chance of side effects.
Permanent hair removal works for anyone with unwanted body hair including those who have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), ingrown hairs, hirsutism, and more.
What are some common side effects?
The most common minor side effects are redness on or near the treated area or a slight irritation following your appointment. This may manifest as temporary discomfort and swelling at the treatment area but will subside within several hours or by the next day.
Another temporary side effect could be a minor color change to skin pigment and skin color – slightly lighter or darker skin. But like redness, this is only temporary.
Is it true that laser hair removal for underarms causes more body odor?
This would not be considered a common side effect, but instances have occurred in which clients have noticed this to be the case during laser treatment.
And ironically enough, it’s due to the laser disturbing bacteria in the area. As a result, more odor-producing bacteria form.
But again, this isn’t considered a frequent side effect. And in many cases, the lack of hair in that area will reduce the potential for any odor.
Is there a potential for any burning?
First, it’s good to know that this is one of the very rare side effects, but the short answer is yes.
But this all ties back to the beginning stages of a hair-free journey with the consultation. Making sure that laser hair removal professionals accurately handle your treatment is key. You want to make sure the correct laser is being used for your skin tone.
Additionally, burns can occur if a client is not at their baseline skin tone. And it’s also crucial to keep the skin free of any lotion, makeup, or deodorant before your treatment.
The good news is that this is a rare complication. And when it does occur, it’s typically in an area of more sensitive skin like the bikini area.
The more you know about laser hair removal, the better.
Of course! And we can’t stress enough all these side effects are uncommon. It’s simply essential that all clients on a hair-free journey with laser hair removal be fully informed about what they might encounter along the way.
And it’s also important to know if you choose the right laser hair removal professional, you’ll be in the hands of someone who will set you up for success before, during, and after treatment and every other step along the way. A seasoned laser hair removal professional will always provide protective eyewear, educate clients on potential side effects, go over tattoo protocol, and adjust laser settings to work with your hair color and skin tone.