ROSEMONT, Ill., Nov. 26, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- When performed by a doctor, laser hair removal is a safe, effective and permanent solution for removing unwanted face and body hair. This clinically tested, FDA-approved treatment has been around since the mid-1990s and is a very common procedure among young adults ages 20 to 45. However, the results don’t occur overnight, say dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology, and in inexperienced hands, laser hair removal can be dangerous. Performed improperly, the treatment can result in burns, permanent skin color changes and even scars. To reduce the risk of possible side effects and ensure an effective treatment, the AAD recommends that consumers only seek laser hair removal from a medical doctor who is extremely skilled in using lasers and has in-depth knowledge of the skin.
“Because of its popularity, laser hair removal might seem like a procedure that anyone can do, but in the wrong hands, it can cause serious skin damage,” says board-certified dermatologist Carolyn I. Jacob, MD, FAAD, an associate clinical instructor of dermatology at Northwestern’s Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. “Since it’s not without risks, it’s important for people seeking laser hair removal to make sure that the person treating them is a physician. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the procedure, as a lot of misconceptions exist about what laser hair removal is and what it can and can’t do.”
To help separate fact from fiction, Dr. Jacob addresses the most common misconceptions about laser hair removal, as identified below:
“Although laser hair removal is very common, it’s important to remember that it’s a serious procedure that involves aiming a powerful laser beam at your hair follicle,” says Dr. Jacob. “To prevent complications, make sure your treatment is performed by a medical doctor who is extremely skilled in using lasers and has in-depth knowledge of the skin. If you experience any pain or discoloration after receiving laser hair removal, see a board-certified dermatologist right away.”
In recognition of National Healthy Skin Month, the AAD is reminding the public about how to find trustworthy sources of information on medical and cosmetic procedures, including laser hair removal. A board-certified dermatologist has the education, training and experience to provide the best possible medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment to patients. After earning a bachelor’s degree and medical degree, board-certified dermatologists must complete four additional years of education, including a one-year internship and three years of dermatology residency. Before seeking dermatologic care, the AAD recommends that everyone make sure their dermatologist is board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology, the American Osteopathic Association, or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org/findaderm.
For more information on laser hair removal, visit aad.org/laserhairremoval.
Contacts
Nicole Dobkin, (847) 240-1746, ndobkin@aad.org
Amanda Jacobs, (847) 240-1714, ajacobs@aad.org
About the AAD
Headquartered in Rosemont, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 19,000 physicians worldwide, the AAD is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the AAD at (888) 462-DERM (3376) or aad.org. Follow the AAD on Facebook (American Academy of Dermatology), Twitter (@AADskin), Instagram (@AADskin1), or YouTube (AcademyofDermatology).
To view a media-rich version of this release, go to: https://aad.new-media-release.com/2018/laser_hair_removal/