How To Treat A Laser Hair Removal Burn
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Across the UK
9 Clinics
Across the UK
Over 1 million Treatments
delivered
Award winning
Clinics Across the UK
Rated 92%
on Trustpilot
Expert Team of
professionals
Sometimes, after getting laser hair removal, you might get a burn on your skin. This can be painful, and you may not know what to do next to feel better and prevent the burn from worsening. Knowing the proper steps to take right away can help your skin heal quickly.
If you get a burn after laser hair removal, put a cool cloth on the area for 10-15 minutes to help with the heat and swelling. Don't use ice directly on your skin, as it can make the burn worse.
In this post, we’ll cover how to treat a laser hair removal burn, including immediate steps, soothing treatments, severe burn management, and proper care during healing.
How To Treat A Laser Hair Removal Burn: 3 Methods with Steps
If you've experienced a burn during a laser hair removal treatment, it’s important to act quickly to minimize discomfort and prevent further damage.
Cooling the Affected Area
Cooling the burn is essential for reducing heat and inflammation. Here's how to do it safely:
- Use a cool compress: Lightly press a clean, soft cloth soaked in cool water onto the affected area. Hold it there for 10-15 minutes. This helps cool the skin without causing further damage.
- Avoid ice: Never apply ice directly to the skin. Ice can cause frostbite or worsen the injury by constricting blood flow, which can delay healing.
Avoiding Sun Exposure
It’s important to keep the treated area out of the sun to avoid worsening the burn or causing further skin damage.
- Stay out of the sun: Keep the area covered and out of direct sunlight. Following treatment, the skin becomes more susceptible to UV rays. This increased vulnerability necessitates extra care to protect the skin from potential damage.
- Use sunscreen: If you must go outside, apply a sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) to the affected area. You can also wear protective clothing.
Applying Soothing Skin Treatments
Specific skin treatments can help soothe the burn and promote healing. Here are some options:
- Aloe vera gel: It is known for its cooling properties and can reduce inflammation and redness. After cooling the affected area, gently apply a thin layer to it for optimal relief and care.
- Hydrocortisone creams: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams can reduce swelling and irritation. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
- Burn creams: Various burn creams are available to help treat minor burns. Look for those containing ingredients like lidocaine or other soothing agents.
What to Do If the Burn is Severe?
While most laser burns are mild and heal independently, some burns can be severe and require professional medical attention. Here's how to recognize when you need to seek help.
When to Seek Professional Medical Attention
If you experience any of the following signs, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional right away:
- Deep blisters: Large or painful blisters that develop on the treated area.
- Extensive pain: If the burn causes severe discomfort or pain that doesn't subside after cooling.
- Infection signs: Redness, swelling, or pus at the burn site.
Untreated severe burns can lead to complications such as scarring or infection, so getting medical help is crucial.
Prescription Treatments for Severe Burns
If your burn is severe, your doctor may prescribe additional treatments to promote healing:
- Antibiotics: If the burn becomes infected, use antibiotics as prescribed.
- Steroid creams: These creams can reduce inflammation and help speed up the healing process.
- Laser resurfacing: If the burn causes scarring in some cases, a dermatologist might recommend laser resurfacing to treat the scar tissue.
How to Care for the Burn Area While It Heals: 5 Steps
Proper care is key to ensuring the burn heals quickly and without complications. Follow these steps to support the healing process.
Daily Skincare Routine for Laser Burns
Caring for your skin during the healing process is important to avoid further irritation:
- Gentle cleansing: Clean the area gently with mild soap and warm water, taking care not to scrub the burn to avoid further irritation.
- Hydrate your skin: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel regularly to keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness.
Avoiding Further Irritation
During healing, your skin will be sensitive. To avoid worsening the condition:
- Do not pick at blisters: Picking at the skin can grow the risk of infection or scarring.
- Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the burn, irritating the skin further. Choose loose-fitting clothing made of soft materials.
- Avoid harsh products: Stay away from products with intense fragrances, alcohol, or exfoliants, as they can irritate sensitive skin.
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
Conclusion
Laser hair removal burns, while rare, require prompt and careful treatment to minimize discomfort and prevent complications.
By following the immediate steps outlined in this post, using soothing treatments, and seeking professional help if needed, you can ensure proper healing and avoid long-term damage. Always remember to protect the affected area from the sun and keep a gentle skincare routine during recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, you should never apply ice directly to a laser hair removal burn. Ice can cause additional damage to the skin, leading to frostbite or restricting blood flow, which can delay healing. Instead, use a cool compress soaked in water to reduce heat and inflammation.
Apply it for 10-15 minutes to soothe the area. After cooling, apply soothing treatments like aloe vera gel or hydrocortisone cream for additional relief.
The healing time for a laser burn depends on its severity. Mild burns typically heal within a few days to a week with proper care, such as cooling the area and using soothing treatments.
However, healing may take longer for more severe burns, and professional medical attention might be necessary. To support healing, follow a gentle skincare routine, stay out of the sun, and avoid irritating products.
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