Laser Hair Removal for Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Does It Work?
Published June 7, 2024
In this article, we will discuss laser hair removal as an option of treatment for Hidradenitis Suppurativa, a skin disease that causes painful lumps in those parts of the skin where skin touches.
We’ll dig deeper into whether this technique works and its possible advantages and disadvantages in patients with such a condition.
What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis Suppurativa, commonly shortened to HS, is a skin disease that causes painful lumps or abscesses in those parts of the skin where skin rubs together—parts like the armpits or groin. This could be very uncomfortable and could impact the way people feel about themselves.
How Does it Affect Those Who Have It?
A person with Hidradenitis Suppurativa has painful lumps, abscesses, and sometimes tunnels under the skin where the skin rubs together. This can be really painful, make movement difficult, and can have a huge effect on self-esteem.
Traditional Treatment Options For Hidradenitis Suppurativa
The traditional treatment options to help manage Hidradenitis Suppurativa are:
Antibiotics
These are medicines that help fight off infections in the body. For Hidradenitis Suppurativa, antibiotics could be prescribed to fight inflammation and ward off bacteria that could further complicate things.
Topical Medications
These are creams or ointments that you can apply to the skin in a particular area. With Hidradenitis Suppurativa, topical medications aim to decrease swelling and improve skin in affected areas.
Surgery
In severe cases of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, surgery might be required. It may involve removing the damaged skin tissue, draining abscesses, or procedures to reduce symptoms and prevent further complications.
Laser Hair Removal For Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Laser hair removal for Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a procedure that uses highly concentrated light beams to destroy hair follicles in the affected areas of the skin.
The procedure reduces friction and irritation inflicted by the hair follicles, thus reducing inflammation and preventing painful lumps and abscesses associated with the condition.
The theory of how laser hair removal might benefit individuals with Hidradenitis Suppurativa is that by reducing or removing the hair from these areas, there is, therefore, less friction or irritation around the hair follicles. This may also reduce inflammation and the chance of lumps, abscesses, and tunnels forming under the skin.
Laser hair removal works to improve skin condition and provides symptomatic relief by attacking hair growth.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Carbon Dioxide Laser
The carbon dioxide (CO2) used in laser treatment for Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a high-energy beam of light that is used to cut, burn, or destroy tissue in the targeted or surrounding areas where the damage has been done. It helps the skin regenerate by aiding healing and causing less inflammation, which improves the skin condition.
(Also read: The Ultimate Guide to Brazilian Laser Hair Removal)
Pros and Cons of Laser Hair Removal For Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Pros:
Less Irritation
Laser hair removal can diminish friction and irritation around the hair follicles, leading to reduced inflammation and soreness associated with Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Preventative Treatment
Laser hair removal. Because of this, the removal of hair from the affected areas may prevent new lumps, abscesses, and tunnels from developing under the skin, which is otherwise very useful for people who like to develop the disease.
Long Term Results
Laser removal can result in permanent hair reduction in the treated area with multiple sessions, and this may offer prolonged relief for people having Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Cons:
Expensive
Laser hair removal costs are high since multiple sessions are often required to see desired results.
Painful
Some patients feel discomfort during the procedure such as stinging, and even a temporary redness of the treated area may lead to it not being able to be tolerated by those with a low pain threshold.
No Guarantee of a Cure
While laser hair removal can help manage symptoms, it may not entirely cure Hidradenitis Suppurativa nor prevent future flare-ups since it is a multifaceted and complex condition in terms of causes and treatment intervention.
So Does Laser Hair Removal For Hidradenitis Suppurativa Work?
Laser hair removal and carbon dioxide are both promising treatments for managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa. While hair removal using laser therapy targets hair growth to prevent irritation and inflammation, CO2 laser treatment targets selectively damaged tissue to facilitate healing.
There is hope in these procedures for patients who require an alternative therapy to reduce their signs and symptoms and improve the overall quality of their lives. Nevertheless, seeking advice from professional healthcare providers is crucial to providing the best appropriate therapy for patients’ needs and considerations.
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Premier Med Spa Center In Milford Massachusetts
At Royal Aesthetic Center in Milford Massachusetts, we provide 5-star rated med spa services. We understand the importance of looking and feeling your best, so we offer only proven treatments. From laser hair removal and cryo fat freeze to skin treatments like facials and microneedling, we are committed to helping you achieve your goal. Trained professionals use only the latest technology to ensure that you get the best results.
About The Author
Experience shines through in Rei Bayucca‘s writing. Having explored and gained knowledge in various industries, she is dedicated to providing thought-provoking and skillfully crafted articles that inspire and educate readers.
