Laser hair removal while breastfeeding is safe if the nipples and areola is not in the therapy zone. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) consider laser hair removal safe during breastfeeding. So, if you are still worried, keep reading this post as we will discuss everything about laser hair removal while breastfeeding.
Is laser hair removal safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, laser hair removal is safe while breastfeeding until it does not directly affect the nipples or areola. The light emitted by the laser cannot pass through the milk ducts or harm the baby.
Also, the laser does not affect the top layer of the skin. The light only targets the hair follicles located in the dermis, about 3 mm below the skin surface. The melanin in the hair roots and pigment preferentially catch the laser light, heating the follicle and killing the cells that produce new hair.
So, if you are planning to get laser hair removal while breastfeeding, ensure that the treatment area is far from the nipples and areola.
We recommend waiting until the baby is at least six months old. The baby’s immune system is still developing during this period, making it more prone to illnesses.
What are the side effects of laser hair removal while breastfeeding?
There are no significant side effects of laser hair removal while breastfeeding. But below are some risks that you must be aware of before getting laser hair removal while breastfeeding:
Decrease in milk production
In some cases, the heat of lasers can pass through the milk ducts and damage the cells in the areola, leading to a decrease in milk production.
Cause Melasma
Also, some reports suggest that there is a possibility of Melasma which is a skin condition that causes brown or grey patches on the skin. It happens because during pregnancy, the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body increase, which stimulate the overproduction of melanin.
When these hormones’ production decreases after childbirth, the melanin production also decreases, resulting in the brown or grey patches on the skin. Also, some women will face itchiness after laser hair removal.
Rashes or hives in a baby child
And in rare cases, the baby may develop rashes or hives if they are allergic to the chemicals used in the laser hair removal process. Therefore, performing a skin test before going for therapy is usually preferable.
Less effectiveness
Laser hair removal is not as effective during breastfeeding because the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body are constantly changing. These hormones stimulate hair growth, so when their levels fluctuate, it can affect the effectiveness of laser hair removal.
Preventions to take while getting laser hair removal while breastfeeding
Here are some prevention tips that can reduce any risks of getting laser hair removal while breastfeeding.
- As we have mentioned before, the main thing you need to do is to keep the treatment area far from the nipples and areola.
- Also, ensure the med spa is not using topical anesthetics or numbing creams during the treatment as they can enter the bloodstream and reach the baby through the milk.
- Another thing you can do is to pump and dump your milk for 24 hours after the treatment. It will help eliminate any chemicals that might have entered the milk.
- Also, you must have an allergy test before going for the laser hair removal treatment. It will help in avoiding any reactions in the baby.
Conclusion:
Laser hair removal is safe while breastfeeding as long as the treatment area is far from the nipples and areola. Also, ensure that the med spa does not use topical anesthetics or numbing creams during the treatment. It is always better to do a patch test before getting treatment.
Pump and dump your milk for 24 hours after the treatment to eliminate any chemicals that might have entered the milk. And lastly, have an allergy test before the treatment to avoid any reactions in the baby.
FAQ:
Can I have laser hair removal if I am breastfeeding?
Yes, you can have laser hair removal while breastfeeding until there is no risk of the lasers contacting the nipples or areola.
What happens if the lasers penetrate the milk ducts?
If the lasers penetrate the milk ducts, they can damage the cells in the areola, leading to a decrease in milk production.
Can I use numbing cream during the treatment?
No, you should not use numbing cream during the treatment as it can be absorbed into your system and passed on to your baby through breast milk.
Is it safe to have laser hair removal while pregnant?
No, it is not safe to have laser hair removal. In contrast, in pregnant as, the lasers can penetrate the womb and harm the developing baby.
What is a patch test before getting laser hair removal while breastfeeding?
A patch test is a small test done on the skin to see if you are allergic to the laser hair removal treatment.
What other options do you have for hair removal if you are breastfeeding?
You can try home remedies such as sugar waxing or shaving if breastfeeding. You can also try using depilatory creams.
Is hyperpigmentation permanent?
No, hyperpigmentation is not permanent. It usually lasts for 6-12 months and then fades away gradually. Also, it is more common in people with darker skin tones.
