Laser hair removal is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments, with the laser hair removal industry pulling in approximately $244 million in 2009. An average of 4 treatments is needed to achieve permanent results. Although laser hair removal is relatively safe, burning can occur. Burns from laser hair removal are superficial, and generally do not result in scarring if they are treated properly. Here are 3 tips and tricks to follow.
Clean Burned Area Daily
Burned areas are more susceptible to infections. To prevent the burns from worsening, wash the burned areas regularly with mild soap to avoid irritating the skin. Avoid touching the burned areas with your hands, as the dirt, dust and bacteria present on your hands can easily contaminate the burned areas and bring on infections.
Make sure that you pat the burned areas dry after each and every cleaning with a clean and soft cloth. Be as gentle as possible to prevent breaking the skin.
Apply Recommended Topical Antibiotics
If there is burning from the laser hair removal process, the dermatologists will normally recommend different types of topical antibiotics that are to be applied regularly to the burned areas. The topical antibiotics prevent infections and contain medication that quickens recovery.
There are various topical antibiotics that may be recommended – Mafenide acetate, Bacitracin zinc, Mupirocin, Neosporin, Polymyxin B, Nitrofurazone and Nystatin. These topical antibiotics target different kinds of bacteria, fungus and even virus. Dermatologists may recommend using several topical antibiotics at the same time to prevent colonization of a broad spectrum of different pathogenic microbes.
Prevent Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation tends to be more common in patients with darker skin tones, and is generally caused by damage to the epidermal or dermal layer of the skin. The hyperpigmentation may be temporary and last for anywhere between 6 to 12 months or may persist permanently.
To prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, cover up and prevent the burned areas from being exposed to sunlight. In addition, apply sunscreen to the burned areas on a daily basis to prevent the hyperpigmentation from darkening.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is not only convenient, but also cost-efficient. It is minimally invasive and produces excellent results, making it one of the most highly recommended cosmetic treatments by dermatologists all over the world. Although burning is not uncommon, your dermatologist has a responsibility to advise you on the risks involved with burning and provide you with further details on how to treat burning should it occur.
For more information about hair removal, contact a specialist like Florida Aesthetics and Medical Weight Loss.
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