Skin health · Published:
Ingrown hairs and laser hair removal
Ingrown hairs and razor burn can be troublesome in everyday life. Long-term hair reduction may reduce the need for frequent shaving. However, it is not a universal treatment for every red area, lump or patch of discoloured skin.
Establish the cause first
Not every bump after shaving is an ingrown hair. Irritation and inflammatory changes can look different and have different causes. Recurring or painful symptoms warrant dermatological assessment.
Do not squeeze or puncture unusual areas. Increasing redness, pus, worsening pain or persistent symptoms should not wait until your next cosmetic appointment to be assessed.
What laser can do
If fewer suitable hairs grow back and less shaving is needed, shaving-related problems may also decrease. The AAD describes this relationship, including for people with recurring shaving problems in the beard area. This does not guarantee success for every other area or after a particular number of sessions.
Treatment must suit your hair and skin colour. Very light or fine hairs are not automatically suitable targets. Acutely inflamed or injured skin needs to be assessed before deciding how to proceed with laser treatment.
Gentle care between appointments
Avoid unnecessary friction and harsh products on irritated skin. An exfoliating glove or acid peel is not a general solution for inflamed areas. Appropriate skincare or shaving methods depend on the findings.
Pause waxing, plucking and epilating during a course of laser treatment. Gentle shaving is only appropriate once the skin has settled and your individual instructions allow it.
Assess dark or red marks separately
Hair removal does not reliably make existing marks disappear. Some changes may persist or require separate treatment. Promising that laser will safely lighten the skin as a side effect is therefore inappropriate. Discuss unusual or new pigmentation changes with a dermatologist.
Frequently asked questions
Does laser help with ingrown hairs?
Suitable hair reduction may reduce the need for shaving and associated problems. It does not replace diagnosis of inflamed areas or guarantee freedom from symptoms.
Should I exfoliate these areas?
Not as a general rule. Exfoliation may further irritate inflamed or sensitive skin. Recurring symptoms should be assessed by a dermatologist.
Will dark marks disappear automatically?
No. Hair removal is not a reliable treatment for existing pigmentation marks. These may require separate assessment.
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