Many women enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal so that they can appreciate smooth hairless skin under their arms, on their legs or their bikini line. However, more recently women have become hesitant to undergo treatment for fear that it may actually cause cancer. A recent discussion on the topic has determined that there is no link between laser hair removal and cancer. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that it classes laser energy hair removal as non-ionizing. So, what does this actually mean? Read our article to find out.
How Laser Hair Removal Work
A highly focused light energy source is aimed to destroy hair follicles, from a distance of only a few millimeters. This light penetrates the skin, becoming absorbed by the hair follicles, which are then destroyed. Sessions are usually taken over 4-6 weeks, and after around three to seven laser hair treatments, patients say they permanently lose the hair being treated. Some touch-ups may be required further down the line, but this occurs to a small minority. The reason women prefer it is that it is a relatively affordable procedure that leaves the skin super smooth. It is also less painful than traditional waxing. Extremely positive results can occur on people with dark hair, while those with blond, red and gray hair are not as extreme.
Ionizing Radiation
This refers to x-rays and gamma rays, that are high-frequency ionizing radiation, and can cause cancer because they directly damage your DNA. Its sources are from natural ones like radon gas, though it has been replicated in medical tests. You will find ionizing radiation in nuclear power plants, where it makes nuclear energy. The FDA stated that laser hair treatments are not ionizing, and generated non-ionizing radiation that cannot cause cancer and are, therefore, harmless to a person’s DNA. Due to the lasers shallow reach, which is only aimed at the skin, the laser treatment is unable to reach DNA strands. It is only able to go as deep as the hair follicle it is aimed at. It will cause some irritation and redness, and some patients compare it to the sting from being hit with a rubber band. This can be eased by applying ice, or using cold milk compresses. A pill, such as Ibuprofen will help reduce swelling and the redness. If you find the redness lasts a while you can chat to your specialist, who can then alter the settings on the laser the next time you return for further treatment.
What Are The Options If I Don’t Want Laser Treatment
If you are still uncomfortable with the thought of laser hair removal, or perhaps you feel it may affect your fertility, you can always stick to the more traditional ways. Either get yourself a good razor and some proper shaving cream, or you can get a professional to wax you. Just remember though, that waxing has the highest risk of in-grown hairs forming that can be extremely painful and may even get infected.