How Does Laser Hair Removal Help Prevent Ingrown Hairs?  (2024)

Laser hair removal is a common cosmetic procedure used by many people to get rid of unwanted body hair. In some cases, this type of procedure is an effective way to resolve problems with ingrown hairs.

Since laser hair removal doesn’t damage the skin’s surface, it won’t cause increased irritation or redness around the follicles where hairs grow. This can reduce one of the primary causes of ingrown hairs.

Laser hair removal has become a popular beauty option for people of all genders and ages and is a great option.

This low-risk procedure is designed to prevent the amount of hair from forming, helping many customers to keep their skin healthy and irritation-free.

Once the treatment has been performed and the hair is no longer growing back, people can enjoy smooth skin without worrying about new ingrown hairs forming. It can be frustrating to deal with this issue, but laser removal will help stop ingrown hairs from appearing at all for some people.

Common areas of permanent hair reduction include lower legs, upper lip, underarms, facial, full-body, Brazilian, and the pubic area.

The hair removal process targets the growth phase of the hair shaft and hair bulb to prevent future hair growth on the treated area of the body whether that’s small areas or larger areas.

The good news is we’ve got the scoop on does laser hair removal gets rid of ingrown hairs!

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a permanent solution procedure that uses lasers to reduce the growth of unwanted hair.

A concentrated beam of light, which is targeted at melanin cells in the hair follicle, will damage the follicle. Hair growth will be slowed or even temporarily prevented after several treatments.

People who have had laser treatment shouldn’t be worried about the increased risk of ingrown hairs or skin irritation after this procedure.

Their tender skin will remain healthy and intact without the possibility of ingrown hairs forming underneath it.

The results are long-lasting with little maintenance needed afterward. As long as they choose a reputable clinic for their laser hair removal sessions, they can get exactly the look that they’re aiming for without worrying about increased risks of more problems.

People who are at risk for ingrown hairs may want to consider having this procedure done before the issue becomes permanent. Taking care of them early will keep beauty and health concerns from occurring later on.

The benefits of laser hair removal are that it’s quick, less painful than other methods of hair removal, is precise, and prevents ingrown hairs.

This low-maintenance procedure is an easy way for people to deal with ingrown hairs and get the smooth skin they’ve always wanted without worrying about these problems occurring again.

Ingrown Hairs

Ingrown Hairs can be caused by many factors, including epidermis trauma, hyperactive sweat glands, improper shaving methods, reactions to certain chemicals found in hair removal products, and even some medical conditions.

This problem occurs when the top part of a hair grows back into the skin rather than out through the surface. The body responds to this by creating inflammation around it which can lead to pain, swelling, and redness.

What Causes Ingrown Hairs?

An ingrown hair occurs when hair that has been shaved or removed from the surface of the skin starts to grow back into the follicle.

As a result, it can cause redness, swelling, and irritation. However, you can help prevent ingrown hairs by keeping your skin clean and moisturized after epilating.

In addition, shaving prior to a laser hair removal session with shaving cream can remove hairs that are already ingrown and reduce the chance for them after treatment.

In other words, if ingrown hairs do occur following a laser hair removal procedure, they will be less common than without laser hair removal. However, it is still strongly recommended to exfoliate prior to the procedure.

Some electrologists will recommend shaving before the session, while others will advise against it. If you are told to shave, do so gently and try not to irritate the skin any more than necessary.

If ingrown hairs were still to occur after a laser hair removal session, applying TEND Skin Therapy Spray to the affected area will help resolve the problem.

Does Laser Hair Removal Get Rid Of Ingrown Hairs?

Laser hair removal doesn’t affect the top layer of skin. This can help reduce irritation and inflammation caused by razor bumps after shaving. It will also prevent damage to the follicles where hairs grow, which can make it less likely for hair to become ingrown.

In order to reduce this risk, you can speak with your doctor about different options for removing or reducing dark pigment cells from the treatment area where treatment will be performed.

Although it won’t prevent all types of ingrown hairs, it can help you get the best results from laser hair removal.

Does laser hair removal work for all skin types?

Laser hair removal is the best solution for people with dark pubic hair and light to medium complexions. A good candidate has an ingrown hair problem with darker hair. The laser technology, laser light, and laser energy will be able to target the hair better.

Depending on your hair color, hair type, skin color, and skin type the treatment sessions will look a little different.

People with darker skin tones or coarse hairs may need to have more than one session in order to start seeing results. Dark skin can make it hard for the laser to target the hairs compared to light skin.

If you have less hair you might not need as many hair removal treatments.

People who have very light hair or white body hair may not be good candidates for laser hair removal treatments. It’s also not effective for blond, gray, red, or white facial hair. Some people can’t use laser hair because of allergies.

How long after having laser hair removal will I see results?

When performed on the body, you should start to notice a reduction of hair growth within three to six weeks. After about eight to 10 sessions, most people can maintain smooth skin for several months between treatments.

However, it will take longer (up to 18 weeks) for someone with dark hair to start seeing full results and permanent results.

If you’re considering getting laser hair removal help, but you’re worried about developing ingrown hairs, there are ways to reduce your risk. For example, keeping your skin moisturized and clean after removing unwanted body hair will help prevent damage to the follicles where new hair grows.

Laser hair removal works and you can certainly continue with your day and your normal activities with minimal discomfort. After addressing the root of the problem, your treated areas of the body will bounce back like a rubber band.

Prevention and treatment tips

To prevent or treat the occurrence of ingrown hairs, you can:

Use a body scrub (exfoliation) once to twice a week in the shower to remove dead skin cells and dirt from your legs and underarms, which can help prevent ingrown hairs. Use an exfoliation scrub with a gentle cleanser, in a circular motion on your skin.

Shave prior to laser hair removal sessions especially if you have curly hair. Shaving before a laser session is the best way to help remove hairs that are already there and reduce the chance of ingrown hairs after treatment.

Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief spray called TEND Skin Therapy Spray after the laser is over. This spray contains a topical anesthetic that can help with any discomfort from the procedure.

Ask your esthetician whether you should shave between the number of sessions. If they recommend shaving, do so gently and try not to irritate the skin more than necessary.

Before and after your first treatment avoid sun exposure to prevent any side effects like dark spots and permanent scarring. The best time for laser removal help to a part of the body is when your skin is in its natural state.

Also, refrain from using any products with salicylic acid or hydroxy acids.

The most important thing to remember is that, unlike waxing or plucking, laser hair removal won’t cause more ingrown hairs it will help with stray hairs.

If you do develop problems with ingrown hairs after the procedure, apply Tend Skin Therapy Spray to help resolve them.

At home remedies for ingrown hairs during laser hair removal

Many people have found relief by using Tend Skin, a product made specifically for ingrown hairs between maintenance treatments. However, it has been reported to cause skin irritation in some cases (especially those who are extremely sensitive).

Your best option is to talk with your esthetician about your treatment options and make sure to follow the directions for use.

Common reasons people get hair removal methods done is it’s a great way to get smooth, hair-free skin for months at a time. In order to keep ingrown hairs to a minimum, make sure you exfoliate well in the days before your procedure.

Overall, laser hair removal has been found to be a permanent hair removal technique that can reduce or eliminate the risk of developing ingrown hairs.

However, speaking with your esthetician before undergoing any laser hair removal treatment is advisable in order to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for this type of treatment.

Laser hair removal is the only way to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and the first place you should go to is to your doctor or esthetician to learn more.

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How Does Laser Hair Removal Help Prevent Ingrown Hairs?  (2024)

FAQs

How Does Laser Hair Removal Help Prevent Ingrown Hairs? ? ›

Laser hair removal is one of the most effective ways of stopping ingrowing hair. This is because the laser goes straight to root cause by destroying the follicle. Therefore it prevents hair growing and causing irritation to your skin. It's safe, virtually painless and can be permanent!

What is the best hair removal to prevent ingrown hairs? ›

Instead of shaving, give waxing a try.

Unlike shaving the hair, waxing doesn't result in those extra-sharp tips that are more likely to curl back into your skin. In that way, waxing can reduce your chances of getting an ingrown hair.

Is waxing or laser better for ingrown hairs? ›

First and foremost, laser hair removal is the best treatment for ingrown hair because it offers a permanent solution. Laser treatments work their magic on hair follicles to leave them unable to produce more hair.

What hair removal method causes the least ingrown hairs? ›

Sugaring or sugar waxing uses a paste made from sugar, lemon, and water to remove hair from the root. It's similar to waxing, but it's less painful and less likely to cause ingrown hairs.

Should you pluck ingrown hairs after laser? ›

It would be best to not pull out hairs following a laser hair removal treatment. The reason is that laser hair removal targets hair follicles to remove hair from the body permanently. Therefore, the follicle has to be visible in the body area.

Why am I so prone to ingrown hairs? ›

Anyone who shaves, tweezes or waxes their hair can develop ingrown hairs. If you shave often, you're more likely to have ingrown hairs. You're also more likely to have ingrown hair if you have skin of color or thick, coarse or curly hair.

What is the number one cause of ingrown hairs? ›

The most common cause of ingrown hairs is an improper shaving technique. Cutting hair very close to the skin creates a very sharp tip on the end of each of the hairs. Most of these hairs will grow back out without a problem. However, some hairs can curl back on themselves and grow into the skin.

What are the negatives of laser hair removal? ›

Possible side effects of laser hair removal include:
  • Blisters.
  • Burns.
  • Herpes outbreaks.
  • Hyperpigmentation, areas of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin.
  • Hypopigmentation, areas of skin that are lighter than the surrounding skin.
  • Infections.
  • Scars.
Sep 1, 2021

How do dermatologists remove ingrown hairs? ›

Ingrown hairs that do not resolve on their own may require treatment by a dermatologist. This includes depilatories for hair removal, topical antibiotics, topical creams, laser therapy and/or medical removal of the ingrown hair.

Does laser hair removal prevent folliculitis? ›

If you're prone to folliculitis, Laser Hair Removal is one good solution. Every time you have a laser hair removal treatment, a beam of light is aimed at the hair. The light is absorbed by your skin, and that helps to shut the follicle down, which, in turn, helps to eliminate the possibility of folliculitis.

What is the most painful area for laser hair removal? ›

The underarms are among the most painful areas of the body to undergo laser hair removal because the skin is so thin. This isn't necessarily the case for the rest of your arms, though, where the pain is much milder.

Why do I keep getting ingrown hairs even though I don t shave? ›

But, even if you don't remove the hair, the pressure from underwear or other clothing can push it down, causing an ingrown hair. This is why ingrown hairs can also be common around the pubic area or upper thighs. You'll often get ingrown hairs around areas that you shave or wax.

Why am I still getting ingrowns after laser? ›

After the laser hair removal session, the hair bulb will start to come out over a 7-30-day period. This can cause redness and bumps like ingrown hairs, as your body will push the hair out of the follicle. Sometimes the hair is trapped under the skin, which is what causes the redness or bumps.

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.

Does laser hair removal make ingrowns worse? ›

Laser hair removal does not cause ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs are more common when using other hair removal methods such as shaving or waxing. However, laser hair removal can cause redness and bumps that may resemble ingrown hairs . In fact, laser hair removal is often used to eliminate ingrown hairs .

What can you do for a persistent ingrown hair? ›

Release visible ingrown hairs by inserting a sterile needle under each hair loop and gently lifting the tip that has grown back into the skin. Rinse your skin and apply a cool, wet cloth for a few minutes. Then use a soothing after-shave product.

Should you pop an ingrown hair? ›

Picking or popping the ingrown hair will only increase your risk of infection because it exposes the follicle to bacteria. Picking the skin can also cause scars. Although ingrown hairs can be uncomfortable at times, they're best left alone.

Why does my ingrown hair keep filling with pus? ›

If there are lots of pus-filled spots

The hair follicles of ingrown hairs can sometimes become infected and inflamed. The hair follicles will swell into pus-filled spots. Pus doesn't always mean there's an infection. Again, mild cases often clear up without treatment.

Why do I have so many ingrown hairs after waxing? ›

Ingrown hairs appear when a strand of hair curls into the skin and grows in the wrong direction after waxing. Ingrown hairs can occur as a result of the hair is not completely being removed after you wax. The remaining hair reverts under the skin and starts to grow beneath the surface.

Can you get HPV from laser hair removal? ›

Because human papillomavirus (HPV) is commonly found on pubic and perianal hairs, techniques of body hair removal resulting in trauma may increase the risk of HPV-associated lesions.

Is laser hair removal harmful long-term? ›

Long-term effects of laser therapy, including the possibility of an increased risk of cancer, have not been studied. Some researchers have observed changes in atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) after laser hair removal.

How long does laser hair removal last after 10 sessions? ›

After each treatment hair is reduced hence it is important to complete the course of 10 treatments and at consistent intervals for best results. We recommend a series of 8-10 treatments and maintenance treatments every 2-3 months for permanent hair reduction.

Does hydrogen peroxide help ingrown hairs? ›

If you can see an ingrown hair beneath the skin, apply a warm, damp compress for a couple of minutes to soften the skin, says Rodney Basler, MD. Then sterilize a needle or tweezers and pluck the hair. Follow with an antiseptic such as hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol.

Does retinol help with ingrown hairs? ›

Look for retinol creams with low concentration (one or two percent might be too harsh). “Applying a topical retinol will help prevent an ingrown,” Hu says. “But only two or three times a week.”

Does Neosporin help ingrown hair? ›

Once you have successfully removed the hair, apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream like Neosporin (you guessed it...to avoid infection).

What are the dots after laser hair removal? ›

The black dots that appear after laser hair removal are called “post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.” They occur when the laser treatment causes damage to the hair follicle and surrounding skin. This results in an increased production of melanin, which is the pigment that gives colour to the skin.

Why do I get folliculitis after laser hair removal? ›

Folliculitis is caused by bacteria entering damaged follicles. Therefore it usually occurs after hair removal procedures. Regardless of whether you are waxing, shaving, or epilating, you're still damaging the follicle. Consequently, you are still at risk of getting this bothersome condition.

Does laser hair removal stop bumps? ›

Laser hair removal works by targeting the hair follicle with a beam of high-intensity light. The light destroys the follicle, preventing the hair from growing back. As a result, you can say goodbye to razor bumps for good.

How far does laser hair removal penetrate? ›

Successful hair removal treatments require light to penetrate deep into the skin because it is necessary to destroy the entire follicle. Depending on the location on the body, light must penetrate 2 to 7 mm into the skin to be effective [3].

How long does laser hair removal last? ›

How long will the results of laser hair removal last? Most patients remain hair free for months or even years. When some of the hair regrows, it will likely be less noticeable. To keep the area free of hair, a patient may need maintenance laser treatments.

What hurts more Brazilian wax or laser hair removal? ›

Not only is laser much less painful than waxing, but it's also so much quicker! Laser hair removal sessions can be as fast as five minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Waxing appointments can sometimes last over an hour!

What age does pubic hair stop growing? ›

Pubic hair may extend out to their thighs, and some girls may have a line of hair up to their belly button. Most girls attain their peak height by age 16, but some may continue growing through age 20.

How to shave your pubic area female without getting ingrown hairs? ›

The Right Way to Shave Your Bikini Area to Avoid Bumps
  1. Wait Until the End of Your Shower to Start. ...
  2. Exfoliate Beforehand. ...
  3. Lather Up with Shaving Cream. ...
  4. Upgrade Your Shaving Technique. ...
  5. Apply Moisturizer Once You're Done. ...
  6. Avoid Tight Clothing Immediately Afterwards. ...
  7. Take Care of Your Razor.

Why are my pubic ingrown hairs so bad? ›

People who shave, wax, or use another method to remove pubic hair may be more prone to ingrown hairs. Ingrown pubic hairs can also be due to wearing tight clothing that rubs and irritates the skin. People with curlier or coarser pubic hair are also more likely to experience ingrown hairs.

Is Nair good for preventing ingrown hairs? ›

Nair™ Bladeless Shave Creams give you silky-smooth, incredibly caressible skin, without the nicks, ingrown hairs, razor burn, razor bumps and razors in general.

How do you prevent ingrown hairs with Nair? ›

Exfoliate. Exfoliation is the process of removing dirt, oils and dead skin cells from the outer layers of your skin, preventing them from building up and clogging your follicles. Exfoliating before shaving or a few days after waxing is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do to prevent ingrown hairs.

Is shaving or waxing better to prevent ingrown hairs? ›

Ingrown hairs are common with the hair removal process. Waxing significantly reduces the chance of ingrowns due to hair being removed from the root instead of chopped at the surface, as it is with shaving.

Does hair removal stop ingrown hairs? ›

Laser hair removal is one of the most effective ways of stopping ingrowing hair. This is because the laser goes straight to root cause by destroying the follicle. Therefore it prevents hair growing and causing irritation to your skin.

How do you exfoliate to prevent ingrown hairs? ›

Apply a warm compress and gently exfoliate the area. Daily exfoliation will help to remove any dead skin cells that clog the pores, allowing you to get to the root of the ingrown and properly treat it. Be gentle with your skin.

Can you put Neosporin on ingrown pubic hair? ›

To prevent ingrown hairs, shave downward with the angle of the hair, or clip hairs instead of shaving. Some creams can exfoliate the skin and treat ingrown hairs. Check with your medical provider. Folliculitis — If folliculitis is mild, use a topical over-the-counter antibiotic, such as Neosporin or bacitracin.

Does salicylic acid help ingrown hairs? ›

Chemical exfoliators like glycolic or salicylic acid are very useful in treating ingrown hairs as well. "These exfoliators dissolve connections between cells on the surface of the skin to prevent hairs from becoming trapped," says Dr. Zeichner.

Why not use Nair instead of shaving? ›

The smooth, hair-free skin achieved with Nair™ products lasts days longer than shaving, because Nair™ hair removal creams chemically remove hair below the skin's surface. Shaving physically removes it just above the surface. For even longer lasting results, try Nair™ waxes.

Why aren't you supposed to use Nair? ›

Avoid Nair if you're allergic to perfumes. You may also be allergic to the chemicals in Nair. Using Nair may temporarily make your skin more sensitive to other lotions or moisturizers. Your skin may also be more sensitive to the skin for a short while right after you use Nair.

Why shouldn't you rub in Nair? ›

Nair and other depilatory creams can burn your skin, even if you use them as intended. The active ingredients in Nair are chemicals like calcium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide. These chemicals cause the hair shaft to swell so the chemicals can enter and break down the hair.

How often should you shave to avoid ingrowns? ›

Shave at least twice a week. Don't tweeze ingrown hairs. Before shaving wash the affected area using a warm washcloth or soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a circular motion for a few minutes.

What makes ingrown hairs worse? ›

Pressure or friction: This can be a problem, particularly in an area already vulnerable to ingrown hairs. By irritating the skin, it can make ingrown hairs more likely. Having coarse, curly, or thick hair: This type of hair is more likely to curl back under the skin when it exits the hair follicle.

How do you prevent ingrown hairs after a Brazilian? ›

How To Prevent Ingrown Hair After Waxing (This Works Every Time!)
  1. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing To Your Appointment. ...
  2. Avoid Hot Showers & Perfumed Products After Waxing. ...
  3. Exfoliate Gently After 72 Hours. ...
  4. Get A Vagacial After 1 Week. ...
  5. Stay Hydrated. ...
  6. Do Not Pick, Pluck, Or Scratch The Waxed Skin.
Oct 27, 2021

Can laser penetrate ingrown hair? ›

Laser hair removal for ingrown hairs is among the most effective methods of stopping ingrown hair. The laser strikes directly at the root of the problem by damaging the hair follicle. It prevents hair growth and skin irritation. It's completely safe and may last for a long time!

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