Are you experiencing itching after your laser hair removal treatment? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Although laser hair removal is a standard and effective treatment, some people experience itching after the procedure. It is usually nothing to worry about, but if the itching is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical help. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of post-laser hair removal itching and how to get relief from it.
Why you are feeling itchiness after laser hair removal?
Itching is a sensation that occurs when the nerve endings in your skin stimulate. It can be due to various factors, including dry skin, allergies, or irritation.
When it comes to laser hair removal, itching can be due to the heat of the laser light or the chemicals in the laser gel. It’s also possible to develop an allergy to the laser gel or the chemicals used in the laser process.
Inflammation
The most common cause of itchiness after laser hair removal is inflammation. Inflammation is just a usual reaction of the skin to injury or irritation. The inflammatory response helps to protect the skin and promote healing. However, in some cases, inflammation can be excessive and lead to itching.
Allergies
Another possible cause of itching after laser hair removal is an allergic reaction to the treatment. Some people are allergic to specific lasers or topical treatments used during laser hair removal.
The most prevalent allergies include contact dermatitis, irritation of the skin, and urticaria, a disorder that results in red, stinging blisters on the skin.
Dry skin
Another typical reason for itching is dry skin. When the skin is dry, it’s more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. You may be more likely to experience itching if you have dry skin after laser hair removal.
Ingrown hairs
Another possible cause of itching after laser hair removal is ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs can occur when the hair is not able to grow through the skin properly. It can happen if the hair is damaged or the follicle is blocked. Ingrown hairs can be annoying and itchy.
Psychological factors
It’s also possible that psychological factors can play a role in post-laser hair removal itching. Stress, nervousness, and unhappiness can all lead to itching. Getting support from a mental health expert is imperative if you’re suffering from stress, anxiety, or sadness.
How to get relief from itching after laser hair removal?
If you’re experiencing itchiness after your laser hair removal treatment, you can do a few things to get relief.
Use Sudocrem
Sudocrem is a topical cream that you can use to treat the itching. It has zinc oxide as an active component, which helps settle skin and lessen swelling. Moreover, Sudocrem can also help to protect the skin from infection.
Apply a cool compress
A cool compress can help to soothe the skin and lessen the stiffness. Soak a clean cloth in cold water to use a cool compress and apply it to the affected area.
Use an over-the-counter anti-itch cream
If the itching is severe, you can use an over-the-counter anti-itch cream to get relief. Many anti-itch creams are available, so pick the one with the active ingredients you prefer.
The most common active ingredients include hydrocortisone, calamine, pramoxine, and benzocaine.
Take an oatmeal bath
There are many benefits of oatmeal when it comes to itching relief. Oatmeal can help soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and lock in moisture. Additionally, oatmeal has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help lessen the visibility of scars.
When used in a bath, oatmeal can help relieve the itchiness caused by dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis. Oatmeal is also safe for people with sensitive skin.
To use oatmeal for relief, add 1 cup of oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak in it for 15-20 minutes. Let your skin dry after a shower, and then use a moisturizer to help seal in the moisture.
Apply Aloe Vera
People have been utilizing the aloe vera herb to cure many skin issues. It’s thought to have anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce itching and irritation.
To use Aloe Vera for itching relief, break off a piece of the plant and apply the gel to the affected area. You can also find Aloe Vera products in most drugstores or online.
Things to avoid if you’re experiencing itching
You should avoid a few things if you’re experiencing itchiness after your laser hair removal treatment.
Don’t scratch
It’s essential to resist the urge to scratch. Scratching can cause skin injury and lead to infection. If you can’t resist the urge to scratch, try to do it in a way that won’t damage the skin. For example, you can use a soft cloth or fingers to scratch the area lightly.
Don’t use hot water
Hot water can dry out the skin and make the itching awful. When you’re washing, be sure to use lukewarm water instead. The recommended temperature for people with sensitive skin is 86°F (30°C). Also, avoid swimming after laser hair removal because chlorine can exacerbate the situtaion..
Never shave the area
If you want to remove the hair, it’s best to wait until the itching has subsided before you shave.
Avoid tight clothes
Tight clothes are garments that fit closely to the body and do not allow for much air circulation. They can be made of various materials, including synthetic fabrics like polyester, which can trap heat and moisture. Tight clothes can also irritate the skin, especially if they are made of scratchy materials like wool.
Conclusion:
Itchiness after laser hair removal is a common side effect. It usually goes away on its own within a few days, but there are things you can do to get relief. If the itching is severe, you can use an over-the-counter anti-itch cream or take a oatmeal bath. You should also avoid scratching, tight clothes, and hot water. If the itching doesn’t go away or gets worse, be sure to see a doctor.
FAQ:
How long does the itching last after laser hair removal?
It usually can last for 12 hours to a day or two. But sometimes, if the itchiness is due to an allergic reaction, it can last for weeks.
How do I know if the itching is due to an allergy?
Suppose you have never had laser hair removal before, and the itching starts immediately after the treatment. In that case, it is likely due to an allergic reaction.
Is there anything I can do to prevent itching?
If you are prone to allergies, you can take an antihistamine before the treatment. It will help to reduce the chances of an allergic reaction. Before the treatment, you should also avoid using scented products on the skin.
Can Vaseline help with itching after laser hair removal?
Yes, because of its thick consistency, it can help to soothe and protect the skin. It can also lock in moisture to help prevent the skin from drying out.
Is itching a symptom of healing?
No, itching is not a symptom of healing. It is usually a sign that the skin is irritated.
