Skin Treatments
So guys, is laser hair removal safe during pregnancy?
The above statement is one of the most common concerns when it comes to removing unwanted hair using laser hair removal methods. Turning to the brilliant, modern laser hair removal technique has become increasingly popular these days.
Here's why the chances of success decreases during pregnancy, but investing your money at the right time into the treatment can yield positive results.
Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant
The aim of this trending treatment is to reduce hair and its growth on the face, legs, underarms, and bikini zones. According to the American Academy for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, over a million individuals had gone through the laser hair removal procedure in 2016.
With the rising interest rate in the laser hair removal procedure, a serious concern arises for pregnant women —should they undergo the treatment? The concise answer according to the doctors is, no.
It is advisable for pregnant women to postpone laser treatment until after giving birth. If you're facing unwanted facial hair, it is recommended to rely on traditional hair removal methods such as shaving.
It is best to avoid hair removal creams and laser skin treatments during pregnancy to eliminate the potential risks of negative effects.
Due to increased skin sensitivity during pregnancy, both laser hair removal and electrolysis can result in swollen and irritated skin. These side effects, along with potential heightened pain, may be worse than usual.
This serves as another valid reason to avoid undergoing these procedures while pregnant.
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Is Laser Hair Removal Safe for Pregnant Women?
It is generally advised by healthcare providers to avoid laser hair removal procedures during pregnancy. While laser hair removal is considered safe for most individuals, there is a lack of long-term studies examining its effects on unborn children.
Therefore, to err on the side of caution, it is recommended to postpone laser hair removal treatments until after giving birth.
What is the Impact of Pregnancy on Hair Growth?
Pregnancy brings about significant changes in a woman's body, often leading to a sense of unfamiliarity. While some women experience a radiant and joyful pregnancy, others may not be as pleased with the transformations their body undergoes.
The hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy have a profound effect on the regular hair growth cycle. Throughout the nine-month period, many women notice the growth of hair in undesired areas such as the face, neck, belly, and breasts.
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Best Alternatives for Laser Hair Removal
Different traditional methods are generally considered safe during pregnancy. The names of various traditional hair removing methods include the following:
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Threading
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Shaving
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Tweezing
During the changes in your body's shape and size, you might require assistance in reaching certain areas for removing unwanted hair.
If you choose to seek help from an aesthetician or a dermatologist, it is important to ensure that the facility is clean and that the technician is licensed to perform the specific service you desire.
While depilatory creams have historically been considered safe for use during pregnancy, there are no studies to prove that chemicals like barium sulfide powder and thioglycolic acid are absolutely harmless to mothers and babies.
Although depilatory creams have been traditionally regarded as safe for use during pregnancy, there is a lack of studies demonstrating that chemicals such as barium sulfide powder and thioglycolic acid are entirely harmless to both mothers and babies.
…But Be Careful!
Numerous individuals have reported painful skin reactions associated with the use of these creams and lotions, as confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Due to the limited research available on potential effects, it is advisable to consult with a doctor before initiating their use.
How Soon After Delivery Should You Schedule Laser Hair Removal?
You should talk with your doctor during the first few months after delivery. It's important to discuss all the ways your body is changing with your obstetrician regularly. It is because postpartum care chould take longer than you think.
It's your doctor who can tell when your hormones have gotten back to normal. Only knowing this, can help you decide when your body and skin is ready to receive laser sessions. Such discussions become even more important if your body has gone through an episiotomy or a cesarean delivery.
Is laser hair removal a painful procedure?
The level of pain experienced during laser hair removal can vary depending on several factors, including the technology and system used, as well as an individual's pain tolerance. It's crucial to ensure that qualified professionals perform the treatment using effective and safe machinery.
At our facility, we prioritize client education by explaining the technology behind our systems. We aim to help clients understand the process of laser hair removal, its effects, and why we use top-quality, medical-grade equipment.
In most cases, clients report feeling a mild pinching sensation, similar to snapping a rubber band against the skin. This sensation is generally tolerable and not considered painful.
Furthermore, advanced technology often incorporates a cooling feature that minimizes the risk of pain and burns during treatment, making laser hair removal virtually painless.
Is There Any Impact Getting Pregnant Due to Laser Hair Removal?
There is no scientific evidence suggesting that laser hair removal affects an individual's ability to conceive. However, if you are actively trying to get pregnant, it is advisable to consult with your doctor before initiating any laser hair removal treatments.
Most people have to take several treatments for successful hair reduction distributed over the time for nine months. The possibility exists that you could start the treatment before knowing you are pregnant. This, unfortunately can expose you to the risks including the following:
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Skin irritation
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Discoloration
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Blistering
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Scarring
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Excessive hair regrowth (very rare)
During pregnancy, if a burn occurs, the healing process tends to be slower, and there is a higher likelihood of experiencing hyper-pigmentation.
Are Pregnant Laser Technicians At Risk While Continuing to Work?
There is currently no evidence indicating that a properly trained and equipped laser technician faces any danger while operating a laser machine during pregnancy. If you have concerns, it is recommended to discuss the potential risks with your doctor.
The key message is that there is no known risk for pregnant laser technicians when following proper safety measures.
Can You Get Laser Hair Removal While Breastfeeding?
Most medical professionals generally consider laser hair removal safe during breastfeeding. However, some experts caution against getting the procedure done on the chest area.
Before undergoing laser hair removal while breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult with your physician for personalized guidance and advice.
Laser Hair Removal is Safe Overall, Only Pregnant Women Should be Cautious
Excluding pregnant women, laser hair removal is considered a safe procedure with minimal long-term side effects for the majority of individuals. However, temporary side effects are prevalent in the treated area such as:
Redness
Swelling
Irritation
Good to know: Side effects are generally minor and short-lived, causing no significant harm to the skin.
It's important to note that not all laser hair removal procedures are equal. Various technicians employ different types of lasers and employ diverse methods of cooling and soothing the skin during the process.
Therefore, if you're considering laser hair removal, it is crucial to ensure that a licensed and certified laser technician performs your procedure.
In summary, laser hair removal is considered safe when conducted by experienced, licensed, and certified technicians. However, it is important to refrain from undergoing the procedure while pregnant.
The safety of yourself and your baby must be the priority when you are pregnant. You have the miracle birth process of your child ahead, with months of sleepless nights and feeding sessions. Take your time after all that to schedule a treatment for laser hair removal services in Rio Rancho and Scottsdale.
Wrapping Up
During pregnancy, your body undergoes various changes, which can include the sudden growth of hair in new areas. However, most of these changes tend to resolve in the months following delivery.
If you wish to reduce hair in areas such as your face, arms, belly, legs, or bikini area, it is generally considered safer to opt for shaving, threading, plucking, or waxing, depending on the size of the concerned area.
After giving birth, it is recommended to consult with your doctor regarding the appropriate timing to resume laser hair removal treatments for any areas where unwanted hair persists.
