Pregnancy causes a surge of hormones that helps your little one to grow in your womb. But it also makes you more susceptible to increased hair growth all over your body. We understand these changes can be upsetting or frustrating, particularly if you want to wear a new dress or bathing suit.
So you may be asking yourself, “Can I get laser hair removal while pregnant?” In general, health physicians suggest that laser hair removal in any pregnancy stage is not the best course of action because of the lack of research proving its safety. However, there are safe alternatives for hair removal when you are pregnant.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a painless and non-invasive method for removing hair from different parts of your body. Most people prefer using it on their legs and arms, but you can have the procedure done anywhere you desire on your body.
The melanin in your skin absorbs the laser applied to your skin. That interaction creates a heat response to make contact with your hair follicles and hinders them from growing hair as quickly as usual after the removal process.
However, bear in mind that laser hair removal treatments are not permanent. Regular sessions will be necessary to deal with persistent hair growth.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe While Pregnant?
Can I get laser hair removal while pregnant? Not enough scientific studies have been conducted to safely say whether or not it’s safe to do so.
Considering the lack of information, doctors suggest it’s best to err on the side of caution and not proceed with laser hair removal for the duration of your pregnancy.
The Potential Risks of Laser Hair Removal Treatment During Pregnancy
There are potential risks associated with laser hair removal while pregnant that you should heed as caution.
Skin Burns Because of Hormonal Changes
The changing hormones in your body can make your skin more susceptible to burns during a laser hair removal treatment. If the burns are highly severe, depending on how it affects your skin, they could pose high risks to a baby’s developing features.
Not As Effective of a Treatment Due To Pregnancy
Your hair is naturally growing faster as a result of how the hormones are influencing your body during pregnancy to support your baby’s growth. Given that, laser hair removal while pregnant will not be effective because of the naturally increased hair growth.
Can You Have a Laser Hair Removal Treatment Postpartum?
Now you have the answer to the question “can I get laser hair removal while pregnant?” But what about once you give birth to your bundle of joy? So long as you give yourself time to heal in the early postpartum stages, you can safely continue laser hair removal treatments. In particular, since your hormones will return to normal levels, the risk of skin burns will decrease.
Alternative Hair Removal Options for Pregnant Women
Here are some pregnancy-safe hair removal options to help you maintain a positive self-image.
Shaving
Pregnancy puts a lot of strain on your body, which makes it harder to shave your legs late in the second trimester into the third. One option is to take a relaxing bath so you can sit comfortably to shave your legs.
Waxing
Leg waxing is another safe alternative hair removal method. However, it’s best to visit a licensed esthetician to assist you through the process. Waxing your legs at home can be challenging at the best of times, especially if you do not have all the right tools or enough space to do it.
If you’ve never done it before, you’ll want to keep in mind that your legs may feel like a prickly porcupine afterward. You should have a smoother experience if you continue to wax your legs at least once a month.
Electrolysis
Unlike leg waxing, shaving, and laser hair removal, electrolysis is a permanent hair removal method approved by the FDA. A licensed electrologist places a thin wire within your hair follicles that sends electricity through them and removes the hair roots.
Looking For a Safe Alternative to Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant?
So if you’re still wondering, “can I get laser hair removal while pregnant”, our professional recommendation would be to wait. You can always try one of the three alternatives listed above for your hair removal needs that are safer for you and your fetus in the meantime.
Since laser hair removal may not be the best option for pregnant women due to potential risks, Image Perfect Laser offers a range of safe and effective non-invasive services such as facials, body contouring, and skin treatments to help women feel their best during pregnancy.
Contact us today to learn more!
