Non-surgical treatments like laser hair removal and laser skin tightening are popular because they are non-invasive, safe, and effective. Before you commit to any skin treatments, we encourage you to ask a lot of questions, especially if you have concerns about its risks or benefits. One such question many people have is, “Does laser hair removal cause cancer?”
Below, we explore what science has to say about whether laser treatments affect an individual’s cancer risk. We’ll also break down what you need to know to pursue safe, reliable, and professional laser hair removal services.
Does Laser Hair Removal Cause Cancer?
The simplest answer is no – laser hair removal doesn’t cause cancer. There is no known increased cancer risk associated with having laser hair removal or other laser skin treatments.
Companies that make medical devices have to prove to the FDA that their products are safe for use on people. They need to show the results of studies demonstrating that the treatments don’t cause harm. Without that data, medical devices can’t be cleared for use.
The first laser for hair removal received FDA clearance in 1997. In the nearly three decades since then, experts have been able to collect real-world data about how laser skin treatments affect people over the long term. A study on the effects of IPL and laser skin treatments published in 2017 found “few anecdotal cases of melanoma post-treatment over two decades of use; therefore, there is no evidence to suggest that there is a credible cancer risk.”
A 2020 review of the effects of medical lasers on the human body likewise didn’t list cancer as a possible effect. StatPearls, a medical continuing education publication, echoes that finding in a 2023 review of possible complications from lasers.
All of this is to say that, based on medical literature, there’s no reason to believe that laser hair removal creates a heightened risk of developing cancer. But where did this misconception come from?
Myths About Laser Hair Removal and Cancer
Lasers are powerful tools that emit different forms of radiation. That can raise questions about the possible link between laser hair removal and cancer risks.
The lasers used for skin treatments and laser hair removal all rely on non-ionizing radiation. This is a different type of radiation than you would find in X-ray devices or radioactive substances like radium. It doesn’t have any link to cancer risk, and it can be used safely for skin treatments and hair removal.
Lasers can change the color of spots or moles, making them lighter and less easy to examine. If you have any moles or other areas of concern on your skin, you may want to have a dermatologist look at them to rule out any problems before having any skin treatments. Skin checks from a doctor are one of the best ways to detect skin cancer at the earliest stages when treatment is most effective.
You can also make sure you have a safe, comfortable experience with laser hair removal by working with a qualified, experienced technician. Discuss your goals for treatment and ask any questions you may have about the process, equipment, and recovery.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
During laser hair removal, your technician will pass a handheld wand over the treatment area. The wand emits controlled light beams that target the pigment in the hair. The pigments heat up, which damages the hair follicle so it can’t regrow hair.
Laser hair removal usually takes several sessions, spaced four weeks apart. You can expect a 70% to 80% reduction of unwanted hair after a series of four to eight treatments.
At Lasers by Monica, we use the QUANTA laser system, which offers dual-wavelength lasers to treat all skin tones. The 755 Alexandrite is effective on lighter to medium skin, and the 1064 Yag is effective on medium to darker skin.
What Are the Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin. You can ask for numbing cream to reduce discomfort during treatment. The most common side effects after treatment are redness, soreness, and mild inflammation.
More serious side effects include blisters, burns, or sores. If this occurs, call your doctor for medical advice.
Laser hair removal is safe and effective for most people, but not everyone. You should not have laser hair removal if you are pregnant. It also may not be appropriate for people with skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or a history of keloid scars.
Trust Laser by Monica for the Best Laser Hair Removal in NYC
At Laser by Monica, we are happy to talk to you about the safety of our treatments. We want you to be confident and comfortable with your laser hair removal in NYC.
For the best laser hair removal in New York City, contact Laser by Monica. We offer top-notch concierge services to clients looking for laser hair removal in NYC and surrounding areas. All our staff are NYS-certified laser hair removal specialists who offer the best and safest hair removal in NYC.