Laser Hair Removal: Is it a Cancer Risk?

Many people choose to go through laser hair removal process instead of the conventional way of using a razor. There are concerns that it may have a risky effect to the body because of the radiation. There have been several research as well to confirm if it has a negative effect to a human body; however, none has been proven as of yet.

Although it is not a cheap process, some women tend to go through laser hair removal treatments to get that smooth hairless skin. In an average, one has to pay almost $300 or more to get it done. However, the speculation that it may create a bad effect or may cause cancer made other woman hesitant to try the procedure.

According to a report by Fox News, Gamma rays and X rays are known to be the most dangerous to get exposed to because of the ionizing radiation they bring. If a person gets exposed to any of them for a long time, a possibility of a cancer may occur.

Nevertheless, a Dermatologist from New York, Dr. Whitney Bowe said: "The light energy from these lasers actually remains superficially, it remains at the level of the skin. "These lasers don't cause DNA damage and they don't cause DNA mutations."

Mount Sinai Hospital's gynecologic oncologist Dr. Konstantin Zakashansky also said that the light being used in laser hair removal does not affect any internal organs because it will not penetrate beyond the skin.

According to WebMD, a person that has gone through the procedure of laser hair removal must be given ice packs or cold water right after it is done to ease any feeling of discomfort in the affected area. There should also be anti-inflammatory lotions or creams. The treatment is expected to continue four to six weeks later, and it may continue for a few more sessions until the hair stops growing.

As of today, there is no substantial evidence presented that the energy used in laser hair removal can cause any type of cancer. A patient may experience a certain degree of irritation and discoloration; however, there are many remedies available to help soothe the affected area.

"Popping an Aleve or ibuprofen can decrease swelling and redness, but avoid Tylenol," Dr. Bowe said. "If the redness lasts for longer than a few hours, be sure to tell your doctor so they can be more conservative with the settings at your next session."