As a new mom, you want to feel confident and comfortable in your skin. But unwanted body hair can put a damper on that. Laser hair removal is an effective, long-lasting solution to get smooth skin. However, is it safe to undergo laser treatments while breastfeeding your baby?
Ethos Spa totally understands your qualms, which is why we took the time to share all the facts about this specific concern.
Can You Have Laser Hair Removal While Breastfeeding?
The short answer is yes. Most experts agree that laser hair removal is safe during breastfeeding. While research specifically analyzing laser hair removal during breastfeeding may be limited, Dr. Soni wants to reassure you that in most cases, treatments are reasonably safe if done correctly.
However, he always advises having an open conversation with him to discuss what is appropriate for your individual circumstances. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to cosmetic treatments during the postpartum period.
Now let’s dive deeper into some of the key considerations around combining laser hair removal and breastfeeding:
- First, it’s important to understand that hormone fluctuations during pregnancy and nursing can lead to increased hair growth. But rest assured, waiting until after childbirth to begin laser removal will not affect your long-term results.
According to our experience, hair growth triggered by pregnancy hormones is usually temporary.
- If you’re worried, you can always wait at least a few months after delivery before resuming laser sessions. This pause allows your hormones to stabilize and gives your body time to recover from the demands of childbirth.
There’s no rush – you’ll get the same hair removal results once treatments start.
- Next, a word of caution. Dr. Soni advises avoiding treating the breast and areola area directly while breastfeeding. The risks appear very low, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution where possible.
- Furthermore, having an initial consultation and patch test before starting laser hair removal is crucial. This allows our technicians to assess your individual hair color, density, skin type, and any underlying health factors.
By doing so, we can determine appropriate and more personalized treatment options and set realistic expectations.
What are the risks of laser hair removal while breastfeeding?
Potential risks of laser hair removal while breastfeeding include skin irritation, pigmentation changes, pain sensitivity, and unknown effects on breast milk composition, but risks are considered low.
Here’s a closer look:
- There is a slight risk that hormone changes from pregnancy could make skin more sensitive and prone to irritation. Even so, reactions are usually mild based on our findings.
- Some temporary side effects like skin redness and tenderness may occur around the treated area of the body. But this does not extend to the breasts.
- Absorption of topical anesthetics into breast milk. However, the amount absorbed is likely minimal.
Is Brazilian laser hair removal safe while nursing?
Yes, Brazilian laser hair removal is generally considered safe during breastfeeding as well. Although it may cause some discomfort in the treatment area, so we often leave it up to our patients whether they want to proceed – in line with our personalized approach.
Here are our reasons behind it:
- The treatment area for a Brazilian is the bikini line region, away from the breast and nipple area. So there is no risk of the laser impacting breast tissue.
- No breast glandular or milk duct tissue is found in the treatment area. The laser only reaches hair follicles in the Brazilian area.
- It’s still smart to take precautions like avoiding directly treating the nipples or areola region as an extra precaution.
- Some doctors advise waiting at least 3 months postpartum before treating a Brazilian area to allow complete healing after birth. That’s entirely logical and safe advice based on our experience.
- Closely monitor for any signs of infection near the treatment area, which can be harder to fight off when breastfeeding if it occurs. Ethos spas recommend avoiding treatment if nipples are cracked or nursing is uncomfortable.
Is it safe to have laser hair removal on the face if you’re breastfeeding?
Facial laser hair removal is likely low-risk during breastfeeding. Treating facial areas like the upper lip, chin, cheeks, or neckline will not impact breastfeeding or pose harm. Still, some numbing creams used could potentially enter breast milk, so caution is advised.
According to our experience, numbing creams may contain ingredients like lidocaine that can pass into breast milk in small amounts. While generally considered safe, caution should be exercised to prevent direct contact with the nipples/breast and wash thoroughly before feeding.
Of course, this only applies if your doctor will use numbing cream during the procedure. Rest assured that we offer better anesthetics at Ethos Spa.
Is it safe to use a diode laser for hair removal while breastfeeding?
The use of a diode laser for hair removal while breastfeeding has not been directly studied but is likely low-risk; however delaying treatments is recommended. With the lack of definitive evidence, we advise exercising caution when deciding to use it.
You may be interested to know that a 2015 study analyzed hair removal with an 805 nm diode laser on over 200 patients. It only labeled skin irritation as a common but typically temporary side effect.
FAQs
Does laser hair removal affect breastfeeding or breast milk?
There is no evidence that laser hair removal affects breastfeeding or breast milk. The light energy targets hair follicles without reaching breast tissue.
Is underarm laser hair removal safe while breastfeeding?
Underarm laser hair removal is safe during breastfeeding based on the general consensus among doctors, but postponing treatments allows hormones to stabilize, improving results.
Is at-home laser hair removal safe while nursing?
At-home laser hair devices have not been studied for safety during breastfeeding. Given the plenty of unknown variables with regard to this procedure, we highly recommend opting for professional supervision.
Smooth Skin While Breastfeeding? We Can Help.
Don’t let unwanted hair growth hamper your joy as a new mom. With the right precautions and Dr. Soni’s expert guidance, safe laser hair removal is possible during postpartum.
Let’s talk about options for your specific case. We’ll also gladly answer any follow-up questions you have. Contact us now!
