If you've stumbled upon this article, you’ve probably read or heard about someone getting an allergic reaction to laser hair removal, otherwise, we wouldn't be spending our time writing this awesome article for you.
So, can one truly be allergic to laser hair removal?
It’s an excellent question and you’ve probably seen tons of photos already on this topic, so let’s embark on a journey to unravel the mystery behind this alleged allergy. We'll dive into histamine reactions, the duration of hive-like symptoms, the rarity of such incidents, post-reaction care, and even take a peek at how these reactions manifest with laser hair removal.
Exploring Histamine Reactions and Beyond.
Let us first understand allergic reactions and the function of histamines.
Histamines are chemicals that your body produces as part of the immune response to deal with injuries, infections, or allergens. They are released by certain cells in your body, particularly mast cells and basophils, which are types of white blood cells.
Histamines are exactly the things that are responsible for the symptoms of an allergic reaction that you may experience, such as itching, hives, runny nose, and watery eyes.
Now why does our body need to do this?
When our immune system detects a potential threat, such as an allergen or a foreign substance, it triggers the release of these histamines mentioned above. If you haven’t realized already, our bodies are amazing at protecting us, and so, histamines' purpose specifically causes blood vessels to dilate, which leads to increased blood flow to the affected area.
This increased blood flow causes redness, warmth, and swelling, which ironically is what keeps us alive as the body prepares all its resources to arrive at the site of inflammation and do its thing.
Duration of Hive Reactions.
The hallmark of a histamine reaction is the emergence of hives, also known as urticaria, which are raised, itchy welts on the skin. In the context of laser hair removal, if a histamine reaction occurs, hives typically appear shortly after the procedure and can last from a few hours to a couple of days. Unlike traditional allergies, these hives are a response to irritation rather than an allergen-triggered immune response.
Now, isn’t what we described about histamine reactions exactly describing the photos or even personal experience you’ve encountered with laser hair removal allergies?
Although these reactions are well-documented, including at our office at Aesthetic Allure, the concept of being allergic to a cosmetic procedure like laser hair removal seems counterintuitive.
Most reactions following laser hair removal—commonly described as redness, swelling, and itching—are transient and resemble irritations rather than full-blown allergies. We can honestly say with our personal experience that true histamine-based allergic reactions are infrequent in this context.
The Rarity Factor.
While histamine reactions following laser hair removal are possible, they are exceedingly rare, we’ve personally only experienced 3 cases in our years since opening in 2007. This is because with the precision of modern laser technology, these technologies minimize the likelihood of triggering a genuine histamine-based allergic response. Therefore, it's important to differentiate between transient skin irritations and genuine allergies.
Visualizing the Rare Reaction.
A histamine reaction after laser hair removal might appear as redness, swelling, and the emergence of raised, itchy welts on the treated area. The hives can vary in size and shape and are often accompanied by discomfort. Once again, it's crucial to distinguish this reaction from more severe allergic responses involving difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis, which are extremely unlikely in this context.
Post-Reaction Care: Navigating the Rare Aftermath.
If you find yourself dealing with hives after laser hair removal, don't panic. While rare, such incidents are manageable. First and foremost, resist the urge to scratch, as this can exacerbate the irritation. Instead, consider the following steps:
Cool Compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce itching and swelling.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and aid in the healing process.
Moisturize: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe irritated skin.
Avoid Triggers: Steer clear of factors that might worsen the reaction, such as excessive sun exposure or hot showers.
Antihistamines: Taking antihistamines such as Benadryl reduce allergic redness and swelling by blocking the effects of histamines. By inhibiting histamine's actions, antihistamines help alleviate these symptoms and provide relief from reactions.
Consult a Professional: If the reaction is severe or persists beyond a few days, consult a medical professional or the practitioner who performed the procedure.
To sum it all up, while the concept of being allergic to the procedure of laser hair removal is largely a misconception, some individuals may experience histamine reactions that manifest as hives. These reactions are typically short-lived and can be managed with proper care.
Remember that the rarity of this occurrence emphasizes the overall safety and effectiveness of laser hair removal. Armed with accurate information, you can confidently embrace this innovative method of achieving the hair-free skin you desire at our office.
*Aesthetic Allure and does not provide any medicaladvice, treatment or diagnosis.
FAQs
The hallmark of a histamine reaction is the emergence of hives, also known as urticaria, which are raised, itchy welts on the skin. In the context of laser hair removal, if a histamine reaction occurs, hives typically appear shortly after the procedure and can last from a few hours to a couple of days.
What does an allergic reaction to laser hair removal look like? ›
Erythema: Redness, inflammation or a histamine reaction is normal, the area being treated will be red and bumpy after a treatment and should settle after 2 – 3 days. Any sort of trauma to the skin may react this way. Regular application of skinstitut laser aid will accelerate recovery.
How do you stop histamine reactions to laser hair removal? ›
The symptoms of a histamine reaction after laser hair removal may include itching, redness, swelling, and hives. If you experience a histamine reaction after laser hair removal, you can use an over-the-counter antihistamine, for example, Benadryl, Zyrtec, or Allegra, to help reduce the itching and swelling.
What are the rare reactions to laser hair removal? ›
Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include graying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, particularly on darker skin.
What is the case of most adverse reactions after laser? ›
Cutaneous wound infection is most common after laser skin resurfacing, although it is sometimes noted in any laser case in which the epidermis has been damaged. Superficial viral, bacterial, and fungal infections are possible.
What antihistamine is good for laser hair removal? ›
The patient may have some swelling (edema) or itching post treatment. The patient can use topical hydrocortisone or Benadryl to alleviate this. An oral antihistamine can also be used. Non-drowsy antihistamine (such as Claritin) can be taken during the day to avoid the drowsiness associated with Benadryl.
How do you treat an allergic reaction to hair removal? ›
How to treat irritation from hair removal. To help skin return to normal and to relieve symptoms, apply the anti-inflammatory, astringent Lenitive Cream. Lenitive Cream is fragrance-free and contains no petroleum jelly.
How to get rid of hives from laser hair removal? ›
How do you treat hives after laser hair removal? Corticosteroids can help resolve hives. Histamine blockers such as diphenhydramine (Aler-Dryl), hydroxyzine, and loratadine (Claritin) can also ease symptoms. In addition, it is important to avoid the source of the hives.
Can I use Benadryl cream after laser hair removal? ›
You may apply aquaphor or hydrocortisone cream, if desired. 2. If the treated area is itching, you may apply Benadryl cream.
What antihistamine is best after laser treatment? ›
Itching may be experienced during the healing phase and is a normal side effect. Do NOT scratch the treated area as scarring and pigmentation complications can occur. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) are non-drowsy and may be taken during the day.
Initial treatments may cause short term muscle spasm, mild fatigue, mild nausea or headaches. It is thought that these healing reactions are the result of increased metabolites in the blood stream. This usually subsides within 48 hours.
Who should avoid laser hair removal? ›
Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
- Are pregnant.
- Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
- Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
- Have keloid scars (raised scars).
- Have or have had skin cancer.
There do not appear to be any long-term health risks associated with the procedure. However, some people may experience minor side effects after laser hair removal. People should ask their dermatologist to test how a small patch of skin reacts to the treatment before having it done on a larger area of skin.
What is a normal reaction after laser hair removal? ›
Most reactions following laser hair removal—commonly described as redness, swelling, and itching—are transient and resemble irritations rather than full-blown allergies. We can honestly say with our personal experience that true histamine-based allergic reactions are infrequent in this context.
How do you stop irritation after laser? ›
You can apply a cold compress to the itchy areas. Alternatively, use an ice pack. Over-the-counter creams or lotions can also provide itch relief. Avoid wearing tight clothes as they may further irritate the skin.
What are the 2 body parts most at risk from the dangers of lasers? ›
The human body is vulnerable to the output of certain lasers, and under certain circ*mstances, exposure can result in damage to the eye and skin.
How long does a laser hair removal rash last? ›
How long do hives last after hair removal? An older 2012 study examined records from 13,284 people who underwent laser hair removal and identified 36 individuals who began experiencing hives within 6–72 hours of the procedure. The rashes resolved within 7–30 days of treatment.
What does a hair allergic reaction look like? ›
If you're mildly irritated by PPD, you may find that your scalp, neck, forehead, ears or eyelids become irritated and inflamed after using hair dye. The skin exposed to the PPD may become red, swollen, blistered, dry, thickened and cracked. You may feel a burning or stinging sensation.
What does a laser hair burn look like? ›
A burn after laser hair removal may be red, blistering, swollen, and in the shape of the tip of the laser applicator device. “Symptoms are often worse during the first few hours or days after the burn,” adds cosmetic dermatologist Dr.
Why do I have itchy white bumps after laser hair removal? ›
Those bumps are frequently due to the skin glands being over stimulated by the laser which causes localized irritation and inflammation.
