Which side effects can laser hair removal cause?

If you are about to pay for laser hair removal, the fair worry is what could go wrong with your skin and what it would take to fix.

The list from two sources

Cleveland Clinic lists the possible side effects of laser hair removal as blisters, burns, herpes outbreaks, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, infections and scars. Hyperpigmentation means areas of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin, and hypopigmentation means areas that are lighter.

Healthline says skin irritation and pigmentation changes are the most common side effects.

Reading the list

The list mixes two kinds of effect. Irritation and color change sit at the top, according to Healthline. Blisters, burns, infections and scars are the entries to raise with a provider before you book.

A WebMD overview of laser hair removal, its benefits, side effects and cost puts the same topics side by side. Cleveland Clinic's guide to how laser hair removal works and what to expect lays out the process the list belongs to.

Three questions for the consult

Bring three questions to the consult. Which of these effects have you seen on skin like mine? What is your plan if I blister or burn? Who will run the laser?

One habit that helps

A change you can name in one word, red, darker or lighter, is easier to judge than one you cannot describe. Write down what you see and the day you see it. That note gives your provider a clear starting point if the change lasts.

Related questions on this site cover what to do after treatment, when results appear and who is allowed to operate the laser.