Is Laser Hair Removal Safe For Pregnancy
Though it may seem risky, laser hair removal is safe to undergo during pregnancy. But how can you verify that the laser being used is appropriate? Find one that can prove their laser device has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. We exclusively use lasers on pregnant women because we found it to be safer than utilizing other methods of hair removal, which is a good solution.
Laser hair removal originated in the 1960s, and the term non-surgical hair removal is often used to describe it. While it was originally developed as a method of permanent hair removal, advances in technology have expanded its uses to include therapeutic and cosmetic treatments that are only semi-permanent .Read on to learn more Brazilian Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant and can laser hair removal cause miscarriage.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe For Pregnancy
Laser hair removal is exactly what it sounds like—removing hair with a laser. Most commonly, people get this noninvasive treatment on their face, armpits, legs, pubic area, and trunk.1
And it’s pretty popular. Prior to the pandemic, over one million people got laser hair removal in 2019. (That number dropped slightly due to nationwide COVID-19 lockdowns that occurred in 2020.)2 It works by using highly concentrated light, or lasers, to remove hair.1
“The pigment in the [hair] follicle is targeted,” says Mary P. Lupo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Lupo Center for Aesthetic & General Dermatology in New Orleans. ”When it absorbs the laser’s energy, it generates heat that permanently reduces the follicle.” This inhibits hair from growing, decreasing or eliminating it in the treated area.
However, it’s not a one-and-done kind of treatment. It only affects hairs that are in an active stage of growth. Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC explains, “It requires multiple treatments, and works best on darker, thicker hairs.” When the hair grows back, it will be lighter, thinner, and sparser.
Laser hair removal also slows down hair growth, but it’s not necessarily a permanent solution. Some people require maintenance treatments periodically.
Is it Safe to Get Laser Hair Removal During Pregnancy?
If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, the question of whether or not something is safe may be a frequent flyer in your mind. And just like the murky, pregnancy-safe waters where things like tea tree oil reside, when it comes to getting laser hair removal while pregnant, there’s just not enough research to definitively confirm its safety one way or the other.3
Whenever you’re faced with a conundrum such as this, the best course of action is usually to practice an abundance of caution—just in case—and speak with your healthcare provider.
Why You Should Not Get Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant?
The most important things to keep top of mind while you’re pregnant are you and your little one’s health and safety. When we said there hasn’t been enough research on getting laser hair removal while pregnant, we admit, we were being generous. In fact, there have been no studies on the topic—zilch.3
It may not have any effect on your baby. But, then again, it might. No one knows. And, just like you wouldn’t walk around blindfolded while pregnant, nor should you venture into a treatment when the science behind it lives in the dark.
Can Laser Hair Removal Cause Miscarriage
If you had laser hair removal or electrolysis before knowing you’re pregnant, don’t worry. It’s best to be cautious, since it’s unknown whether these treatments can affect pregnancy, but they’re likely not a danger to you or your baby
People of all ages have waxed their legs to enjoy smooth, hair-free skin. For best results, the hair on your legs should be around 1-to-3/4 inch long, so that the wax can optimally latch onto it and pull it out from the root. Waxing at home is economical, but that’s not to say there aren’t certain precautions you should take—pregnant or not.1
Every pregnancy is different. Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider about your circumstances if you have any questions about waxing your legs while pregnant.
Benefits of Waxing Your Legs During Pregnancy
There are benefits to waxing over shaving, however, while pregnant. Peruse the below to find out why.
Exfoliation
When you wax your legs, along with the hair, you’re also removing the outermost layer of skin on your legs. This exfoliation can make your skin feel smoother and, over time, become healthier looking.3
More Coverage, Less Effort
“A large area can be treated relatively quickly, and you can have it done by a professional,” advises Dr. Nazarian. “This avoids the stretching or contorting of your own body that is often required when shaving.” As your baby bump grows, so too do your physical limitations—especially when it comes to bending down when removing hair from your legs or even tying your shoes—which can become more and more difficult and uncomfortable to do as you progress through your pregnancy.
Longer-Lasting Results
Because you’re pulling hair out by the root—as opposed to chopping it off mid-growth—waxing can leave your legs looking and feeling smoother longer than shaving.
Brazilian Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant
Although laser hair removal is generally considered a safe procedure, doctors and dermatologists usually advise women to avoid the procedure because no studies have been done to prove that it’s safe for mothers and babies. In the absence of research, doctors err on the side of caution.
Give Waxing Your Legs a Try Before Pregnancy
If possible, try giving waxing your legs a go prior to becoming pregnant. “It’s best to have tried waxing before you’re pregnant,” recommends Dr. Nazarian. “This ensures that you won’t have any irritation or you don’t have any allergies to ingredients that are used during the process.”
See a licensed professional and give the salon a good look to be sure it’s sanitary. “There’s a small risk of irritation or infection if waxing is done improperly,” Dr. Nazarian says. So if you choose to go the salon route, be sure their cleanliness is up to par.
Pamper Your Skin Pre- and Post-Wax
Your skin is more sensitive while you’re pregnant. For this reason, Dr. Nazarian offers a multipronged approach. “I always recommend that women apply a calming moisturizing cream following their wax, and to avoid any irritants for a day after waxing.” This includes avoiding scented cleansers and perfumes as well as any potential irritants like alcohol.
Dr. Lupo also stresses the importance of an everyday skincare staple—especially after waxing. “Be sure you are using SPF,” she says. This will help protect your skin from any further irritation or possible sun damage.
Try to Get Ahead of Any Discomfort
Easier said than done, we know. But, if possible, try applying cold packs to your legs on and off for about 30 minutes prior to waxing (just be sure you leave your legs completely dry), as well as post-wax. Avoid hot showers or baths, apply a moisturizer that won’t clog your pores, and wear loose clothing. You can also always ask your healthcare provider if there are any pregnancy-safe analgesics you can take beforehand to help reduce any discomfort.
Keep the Heat in Check
The wax you use on your legs should be warm but not scalding. Dr. Lupo explains, “A burn will be slow to heal and more likely to lead to hyperpigmentation.” Remember: The goal here is hairless legs, so try your best to avoid damaging them with excessively heated wax.