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Hair Removal Journal is a public resource brought to you by The Patient’s Guide. The purpose is to provide patients interested in hair removal a credible resource to research laser hair removal, including costs associated with the procedure, the number of treatments that will be needed, how to choose a doctor, and other frequently asked questions.
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Does laser hair removal cause scarring?

  • Risk is Rather Small
  • Temporary Pigmentary Changes
  • Experienced Operators Diminish Risk
  • Risk is Rather Small

    Any laser procedure can cause scarring, and this is included as a risk on most consent forms you will sign prior to laser treatment. However, the risk of scarring from laser hair removal is rather small and is a function of many things including:
    • The experience, skill, knowledge and training of the laser operator
    • Your particular ability to heal
    • The amount of melanin pigment in your skin with greater risk for darker skin types
    • Type of laser used

    Temporary Pigmentary Changes

    Many people experience pigmentary changes, either lightening of the skin or darkening of skin, following a laser procedure. Most of time this is not scarring, even though people often believe that it is. Pigmentary changes following laser procedures are usually resolve in a period of weeks to months.

    Experienced Operators Diminish Risk

    Although the risk of scarring from a laser procedure is quite small, you can minimize your risk by selecting an experienced operator to perform your laser treatment who is supervised by an on-site physician.

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    Eric F Bernstein, MD, discusses the possible complications of laser hair removal
    How Did Treatment
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    86% Life?
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       (81 reviews)

     Laser Hair Removal

    I loved my experience with this firm and Arm Hair Removal. ...[more]
    Salt Lake, UT Dec 13, 2011

     100% Better than waxing/shaving!!

    I had my Bikini, underarm, and upper leg hair done. Each tim...[more]
    Sudbury, MA Dec 11, 2011

     only time will tell

    I'm going to my 4th session in the Bikini area, it's almost ...[more]
    Miami, FL Nov 09, 2011
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    Ask The Doctor
    Q: What are some pre-treatment instructions?

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    Laser hair removal can be quite effective for patients with... [Read More]
    Q: What are the different types of lasers used for hair removal?
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