When it comes to laser hair removal, the answer to when you can't have it varies from patient to patient. Generally, most people can undergo laser hair removal once every 4 to 6 weeks. However, there are certain circumstances in which laser hair treatment is not recommended. Teens experience significant hormonal changes that cause many body changes, including hair growth.
Because hormones fluctuate so rapidly, laser hair treatment may produce only temporary results during the early teen years. Therefore, it is recommended that teens wait until their hormones have been regulated, usually around age 18, before undergoing laser hair removal. The hairs don't fall out immediately after the treatment, but they will shed over a period of days or weeks. This may seem like continuous hair growth. Repeated treatments are often necessary because hair growth and loss occur naturally in a cycle, and laser treatment works best on hair follicles in the regrowth stage. People under the age of 18 can undergo laser hair removal if an evaluation determines that they are mature enough to understand and consent to the procedure.
They will need parental approval to receive treatment. If your teen has excessive hair growth, especially on the face, see a doctor before undergoing laser treatment. At this point, you won't even have to check for a beard; you'll simply enjoy the life-changing benefits of laser hair removal. The idea of saving all the time it takes to shave, not having to worry about razor burns or “shaving bumps” and permanently removing unwanted body hair is a very attractive idea at any age. Despite the increase in laser use, to date, there are few guidelines on how to approach laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is safe for teens, as long as it's done by a professional who is certified in the treatment.
We recommend starting permanent hair reduction treatments after puberty, as hormonal changes during this period can affect and stimulate hair growth. People in their 20s and 30s can also benefit from laser hair removal. If you're living through the busy 20-30 years, a laser hair treatment could save you a lot of time and get rid of unwanted hair. If you have a skin reaction right after laser hair removal, your doctor may apply a steroid cream to the affected area. A number of laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments may also be necessary. Keep in mind that you should not undergo laser hair treatments if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Other possible side effects are rare when laser hair removal is performed by a dermatologist or under the direct supervision of a dermatologist. Laser hair removal is not recommended for eyelids, eyebrows, or surrounding areas due to the possibility of serious eye damage. You should avoid other methods of removing unwanted body or facial hair such as waxing or tweezing as these methods pull out the root and can cause skin irritation. The contrast between dark hairs and fair skin results in the best results from laser treatments. Therefore, if you are considering laser hair removal for yourself or your teen, it is important to consult with your doctor first to determine if this is an appropriate treatment option for you.
