How to Deal With Itching and Bumps After Laser Hair Removal

Published August 15, 2022

Worried about bumps and itching after laser hair removal? We got you covered. In this post, we’ll give you the deets on how to prevent and treat them.

Laser Hair Removal is a generally safe and effective procedure for removing hair and preventing future growth. Because of this, many consider it a permanent solution for unwanted hair growth. 

This procedure uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to target and eliminate hair follicles. It does this by emitting light energy, which is then absorbed by the pigment in the hair (melanin). This process turns the light energy into heat which, in turn, damages the follicles. When the hair follicles are damaged, it becomes impossible for the hair to regrow. 

Laser Hair Removal is usually done on areas where hair may be awkward and unsightly for the patient. These areas include but are not limited to the underarm, upper lip, chin, and bikini line.  Because the laser targets pigment, people with darker hair make better candidates.  

But like many cosmetic procedures, it doesn’t come without risks. Most people who go through a laser hair removal procedure complain of experiencing bumps and itching on the skin. While these are common side effects, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. If you’re experiencing this right now, here are some tips on how to prevent bumps and itching after laser hair removal.

What Causes Bumps and Itching After Laser Hair Removal?

As mentioned, the laser hair removal treatment involves damaging or killing the follicles so the hair can’t grow again. These follicles are connected to your skin so naturally, your skin will react to this damage. It becomes red, tender, and slightly swollen in the affected areas. That’s why along with hyperpigmentation, skin irritation in the form of bumps and itching is a common side effect of laser hair removal treatments.

Some people may be alarmed by these bumps, but they’re completely normal and usually subside within a day or two. These bumps may also become itchy, but it is crucial you do not scratch them. Doing so might aggravate the inflammation and result in unsightly scarring.

How to Prevent Itching and Bumps After Laser Hair Removal

While bumps and itching are common after-effects of laser hair removal and can’t be prevented, there are some pre-procedure routines you can do to lessen its symptoms and severity. Here are some of the things you should do before your laser hair removal appointment:

1. Stay out of the sun

Avoiding sun exposure before and after treatment is an essential part of this process. Tanned areas may get burned or discolored, as the pigment will attract the laser. You should apply sunblock with SPF 30+ on the areas you want to have the procedure done. 

2. Shave treatment areas

You’ll want to shave the parts where you want to have the laser hair removal done. Doing this may prevent surface burns on hairs that protrude the top layer of the skin. You should also avoid plucking, waxing, and other hair removal methods for up to six weeks. These alternative methods may disturb the hair follicles and cause further skin irritation. 

3. Avoid blood-thinning medications

You’ll want to consult with your physician about which drugs to avoid beforehand. These may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

4. Don’t apply deodorant, moisturizer, or makeup to the treatment area

You will want to keep your skin as bare as possible before treatment, as any foreign material could interfere with the laser treatment and worsen its side effects.