18 Nov What are the causes of laser burns?
There is a great number and variety of laser treatments, from hair removal procedures to skin treatment. Sometimes, however, they may lead to some negative consequences such as burns.
What are the causes of laser burns and how can you deal with it?
Although most laser methods of treatment, both cosmetic and medical, are relatively safe, especially when they are carried out in specialized and licensed clinics, in some cases complications may arise.
Here we will look at the most important information, particularly about laser burns.
Main symptoms of burns as a result of laser hair removal or skin treatment procedures are:
- Redness or any change in skin color;
- Severe swelling at the site of laser burns;
- Persistent pain even after the end of a session;
- The skin exfoliation which occurs immediately or a few hours after the session;
- The feeling of warmth in the treatment area persists even after the end of the procedure or begins after returning home
All the above-mentioned symptoms are considered to be a normal condition after the laser procedures. Redness, pigmentation or a slight rash will disappear after a few hours, in rare cases a longer period of time will be required.
Causes of laser burns
Here are the most common causes of laser burns:
- Non-compliance with the required interval between tanning and laser procedure;
- Increased concentration of melanin;
- Poor qualification of the cosmetologist;
- Malfunctioning device;
- Incorrect selection of power, which is not suitable for the type of patient’s skin and hair;
- Failure to use a special cooling gel.
Some important recommendations in cases of laser burns
Severe pain is the main sign of a laser burn. You should contact the center where you had laser procedures.
In order to avoid burns after the laser treatment and to decrease the negative effect, one should:
- To speed up the healing and regeneration of cells, apply special creams to the skin;
- Apply creams containing aloe vera or aloe vera gel directly to the burn site, but be careful because aloe vera gel may not be suitable for some skin types;
- Cold compresses will help reduce thermal sensations in the burn area, thereby reducing the likelihood of further damage, numbness of the area and pain relief. However, avoid getting ice directly on the burn, as this can worsen its condition;
- In order to relieve pain, you can take painkillers;
- Do not pierce or strip off blisters in the burn area;
- Avoid direct sunlight in the first days after a burn and do not expose it to sunlight immediately after applying a suitable sunscreen to the burn area or after covering it with a suitable dressing.
If any signs of inflammation or infection start appearing on the burn site, please, visit a doctor immediately.
Laser burn treatment
It usually takes 4-20 days for laser burns to heal. During this period, if treatment is necessary, it is better to consult a specialist.
Laser burn treatment mostly depends on the severity of the burns. There are several degrees of burns.
Various medical procedures are used depending on the severity and degree of burn. For example, there are special laser procedures meant to reduce pigmentation or scars from laser burns.
Protection from laser burns
To protect yourself from possible laser burns, make sure you follow the rules listed below:
- Go through the laser treatment procedures only in licensed centers and with trusted specialists.
- Inquire about the lasers used and check their quality before starting a laser treatment session.
- Before your sessions begin, ask your laser specialist about the strength and type of laser used and make sure it is suitable for your skin.
Dr. Ghassan Yacoub.