laser hair removal side effects

Question

I got laser hair removal done about two months ago, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting so many issues afterward. The clinic told me it was completely safe and that I’d only have "mild redness for a few hours," but my skin has been acting up ever since. The treated areas, especially on my legs and upper lip, are still super sensitive, and I keep getting these tiny red bumps that won’t go away. Some parts even feel rough, like dry patches, and my skin tone looks uneven in those spots.

I also noticed that in certain areas, especially underarms, I have darkened patches where the laser was used. I don’t know if it’s normal or if something went wrong. The clinic just told me to “moisturize and wait,” but it’s been weeks, and the discoloration hasn’t faded. I wish they had explained all the laser hair removal side effects properly before I went through with it.

Now I’m wondering if Ayurveda has a way to heal the skin naturally. Are there Ayurvedic remedies to reduce hyperpigmentation and soothe irritated skin after laser hair removal side effects? I read that Aloe Vera and turmeric might help, but I don’t know how to use them correctly. Should I be applying them daily, or is there something better for skin recovery?

Also, I want to make sure I don’t cause more damage. Are there any foods or habits I should avoid while my skin heals? I’ve heard Ayurveda talks a lot about Pitta imbalance and heat in the body – could that be making my laser hair removal side effects worse? Would a cooling diet or herbal treatment help?

If anyone has used Ayurveda for healing skin after laser hair removal side effects, what actually worked? I really don’t want to be stuck with irritation and dark spots forever.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Your post-laser irritation, bumps, and hyperpigmentation are likely due to Pitta imbalance and skin sensitivity, which Ayurveda associates with excess heat (Ushna) and inflammation. Since laser treatments generate heat, they can aggravate Pitta and disrupt the skin’s natural balance, leading to redness, irritation, and pigmentation. Ayurveda focuses on cooling, soothing, and nourishing the skin while improving its ability to heal naturally.

For soothing irritation and redness, apply fresh Aloe Vera gel daily (preferably from the plant) and rose water mist to calm inflammation. A paste of sandalwood powder and turmeric mixed with milk or rose water can help reduce heat and prevent further discoloration. To fade dark patches, use Manjistha (a powerful blood purifier) and licorice powder in a face/body pack or consume Manjistha tea to detox from within. You can also massage affected areas with Kumkumadi oil or coconut oil at night to restore skin tone and hydration.

To speed up healing, Ayurveda recommends a cooling diet to balance Pitta. Avoid spicy, fried, and acidic foods, as well as excessive caffeine and processed sugar, which can worsen inflammation and pigmentation. Instead, focus on coconut water, cucumber, leafy greens, and pomegranate, which naturally cool and hydrate the skin. Drinking coriander or fennel tea can also help reduce internal heat. Stay out of direct sun, avoid hot showers, and wear loose cotton clothing to prevent further irritation. With consistent Ayurvedic remedies and a cooling lifestyle, your skin should gradually heal, and pigmentation should fade over time.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, the symptoms you're experiencing after laser hair removal can be related to an imbalance of Pitta, which governs heat and inflammation in the body. The sensitivity, red bumps, and hyperpigmentation are signs of excess heat in the skin. To soothe and heal your skin, you can apply Aloe Vera gel, which cools and calms inflammation, and Turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties. You can mix turmeric powder with honey or milk to create a paste and apply it gently on the affected areas. Avoid using harsh chemicals and products with synthetic fragrances, as they can aggravate the skin further. For diet, focus on cooling, hydrating foods like cucumbers, coconut, and leafy greens, while avoiding spicy, fried, and overly salty foods that increase Pitta. Herbal remedies like Sandalwood oil and rose water can also be helpful for reducing skin irritation and pigmentation. Additionally, using cold compresses and staying out of the sun as much as possible will support the healing process. Ayurveda would recommend a gentle approach, with focus on cooling treatments and balancing Pitta.

laser hair removal side effects - #17188

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions