Patient Education
Find a Laser Hair
Removal Specialist
Before & After Photos
Who's Behind
Your Laser?
...it matters
[Learn Why]
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.
>>More About the Patient's Guide

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.

     Find a Laser Hair Removal Specialist
     
       
    Videos
    Eric F Bernstein, MD, discusses the possible complications of laser hair removal
    How Did Treatment
    ChangeYOUR
    86% Life?
    of reviews werePositive

     Biggest Mistake I Have Made

    Went to a well advertised "med-spa" which showed photo of ph...[more]
    Savannah, GA

     Laser Hair Removal (for men) from a Male Perspective

    I'm 41, and active in many sports including swimming and div...[more]
    Raleigh, NC

     Was Hoping for More

    I had some pretty dark hair on my upper lip that I wanted to...[more]
    St Louis, MO
    Write a Review
    Ask The Doctor
    Q: Will Laser Hair Removal work for me?

    Due to the fact that a laser targets melanin, the more... [Read More]

    Q: What are the limitations/disadvantages of Laser Hair Removal?
    Although laser hair removal is an excellent treatment... [Read More]
    Q: What is Pseudofolliculitis?
    One of the more common problems we see, particularly when... [Read More]
    Laser Hair Removal Specialists
    Not Your Location?
    Search for specialists near you.
    Zip Code: