Did you know that laser hair removal is the most common laser therapy and the fourth most commonly performed non-surgical procedure in the US? The longevity of the results is obviously one of the big reasons why so many people choose this hair removal method.
If you’re expecting a child, you’re probably wondering if you can get laser hair removal while pregnant. Are your worries substantiated? Let’s examine how laser hair removal works and the reasons why it may or may not be a good choice for pregnant women.
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If I had laser hair removal before knowing I was pregnant, what should I do?
Don’t panic. There’s currently no evidence that laser hair removal causes harm, but most providers err on the side and recommend pausing any further procedures during pregnancy.
How Does a Laser Hair Removal Treatment Work?
A laser hair treatment employs a light-emitting laser to target hair.
The light emitted from the laser is absorbed by the pigment in the hair (that’s why it works best on people who have light-colored skin and dark hair). The light is then converted into heat that damages the hair follicles.
The effects of laser hair removal are best observed after a couple of sessions. A few maintenance procedures may also be required to get even better results.
Many people don’t need any touch-ups for at least five years after getting the required number of laser procedures. For others, the results will be permanent.
When can I resume laser hair removal after giving birth?
Most people can resume this cosmetic procedure a few months postpartum, once hormones stabilize and hair cycles normalize.
Is Laser Hair Removal During Pregnancy Safe?
Obviously, pregnancy is a period linked to massive changes in just about every aspect of your body’s functioning. Pregnancy hormones affect many things, including the way skin pigmentation works. It’s one of the reasons why many women will develop dark spots (hyperpigmentation) on their skin while expecting.
Let’s start with the short answer to the question about laser hair removal. There are no standardized guidelines when it comes to the use of light energy for hair removal during the course of a pregnancy. Medical professionals and clinicians have yet to do sufficient research on whether and how the laser could affect the mom-to-be and her unborn baby.
Most OBGYN professionals will advise expecting moms to postpone the use of a laser machine for hair removal until the postpartum period. There are various alternatives to laser hair removal that can be employed while expecting – waxing, hair removal creams, the use of epilation devices and shaving are all approved by medical professionals.
Managing Pregnancy Hair Growth Changes
Hormones will often be responsible for excess hair growth, including on the face. The extra hair growth is usually noticeable in the form of luscious, healthy locks. Hair during pregnancy, however, may appear more pronounced on the hands, legs, and in the genital area.
Generally speaking, laser hair removal is a safe procedure. There are pregnant women who have gotten parts of their body lasered, whether during early pregnancy or towards the final weeks of gestation. In fact, many pregnant women will seek reliable hair removal methods precisely because of the changes that may be taking place in their bodies.
If you’re seeing changes to your normal hair growth cycle and considering laser hair removal methods, discuss your options with your doctor. A gynecologist or a dermatologist can answer your questions about laser hair removal and whether you should wait to get the procedure.
Is laser hair removal safe while breastfeeding?
Laser hair removal is considered a surface-level cosmetic treatment and does not affect breast milk. Still, many providers suggest taking a cautious approach and may recommend alternatives.
Potential Risks of Getting Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons suggests a couple of potential risks linked to laser hair removal. These include:
- Swelling around the hair follicles
- Skin redness and irritated skin
- Temporary skin pigmentation changes (especially among those with a darker skin tone)
- Changes in skin texture
- Temporary blistering or scabbing
For most people, these side effects are mild and will subside within a few days of getting the procedure. Pregnant women may experience increased skin sensitivity and changes in pigmentation, making the skin more prone to irritation or pigmentation changes following laser treatment.
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Can laser hair removal affect getting pregnant?
There’s no evidence that laser hair removal impacts fertility. However, it’s always wise to discuss timing and treatment options with a medical professional to evaluate the safety for your body.
How to Address Unwanted Hair While Expecting
Laser hair removal sessions can be resumed about six months after you’ve given birth (or when your healthcare provider allows it). That’s when pregnancy-related hair growth will be normalized, and your raging hormones will go down to their pre-pregnancy levels.
If you want to get professional hair removal assistance while pregnant, consider options like waxing and threading. All other DIY and at-home methods are also fine to engage in (as long as you feel comfortable and capable of getting your body silky smooth). Just be careful about the selection of depilatory creams. Some pregnant women have reported irritation when opting for products containing chemicals like barium sulfide and thioglycolic acid.
That pregnancy glow could also be linked to a bit of embarrassing body hair. And that’s perfectly normal! Don’t rush to schedule an appointment for laser hair removal. Enjoy your pregnancy and take good care of your skin. Once you give birth, you’ll be free to address body issues in any way deemed appropriate.
When You’re Ready, We’re Here
Pregnancy is all about timing, and laser hair removal is no exception. If now isn’t the right moment, that’s perfectly okay. When your body is ready, and your provider gives the green light, laser hair removal can be a safe, effective way to manage unwanted hair long term.
At Aesthetics MedSpa, we take a personalized approach to every treatment. Our experienced team is always happy to answer questions, explain the process, and help you decide when the timing feels right. Schedule a consultation to learn more about your options and create a plan that works for you.
