Laser Hair Removal for Psoriasis + Other Methods
Is Laser Hair Removal for Psoriasis Sufferers the Best Option?
If, and how, you should remove body hair is a completely personal decision. It is perfectly safe for psoriasis sufferers, but extra precautions should be taken. Those with psoriasis need to take care to avoid injury, which could trigger a flare-up. Psoriasis sufferers should take extra steps to ensure their skin is completely clean prior to hair removal, to avoid infection and irritation. Keeping well moisturised is also extra-important, as some hair removal methods can cause additional skin dryness.
If you are considering laser hair removal for psoriasis, it’s best to make the professional aware before treatment, so they are prepared and can take any necessary precautions. Hair removal (by any method) is best avoided if you are suffering from a flare-up, as the risk of injury or irritation is higher, and could make your psoriasis symptoms worse. Avoid any affected areas, particularly on your legs.
Laser Hair Removal for Psoriasis
If psoriasis plaques cover large areas you may wish to consider laser hair removal. Different lasers target different parts of melanin, which makes them more precise than other methods like IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). This makes laser treatments particularly advantageous for those dealing with skin problems such as psoriasis that may have unwanted dark patches growing in random parts of their body. Laser hair removal works best for those with mild psoriasis. Laser hair removal is ideal for paler skin with darker hair, as this gives a darker pigment for the laser to attract. Unfortunately, those with light body hair or darker skin tones might not find the treatment as effective. Talk your options through with a professional to decide if laser hair removal for psoriasis is right for you.
Other Hair Removal Methods for Psoriasis
Shaving- When it comes to shaving, the key to success is being gentle and taking your time. Start by using a sharp razor to remove any excess hair and then use a mild shave gel or shaving cream to help keep the area lubricated, allowing for a smooth and comfortable shave.
Hair Removal Creams- Hair removal creams are another option. These creams contain ingredients that dissolve the protein in your hair so it is easy to wipe off with a damp washcloth or wipe away with a cotton ball after several minutes of application. Be sure to read all directions carefully before applying these creams, as they can cause irritation due to their strong chemicals. A patch test is recommended. Only apply to areas with no active plaques.
Tweezing- Tweezing works best once hair has already been removed with one of the previous methods such as shaving or creams but can be used as an initial method in small areas like on the face or neck. There is no need for added pressure when tweezing and per usual hygiene should always come first when grabbing a pair of tweezers – ensure they’re clean of dirt and debris before plucking away at stray hairs around inflamed areas!
Waxing- If waxing is chosen take extra care because this could potentially make symptoms worse depending on the plaque’s location/size in relation to the desired wax area. Do not wax any affected areas. Follow your wax with a fragrant-free cream/gel designed specifically for your condition on top afterward (to help calm skin).
Epilator- Electric epilators work similarly to tweezers but on a larger scale; they grab multiple hairs at once and pull them out quickly removing them from the root level. This has less chance of ingrowing hairs/trauma caused by improper handling techniques associated usually with traditional waxing/shaving sessions. Again extra caution should be taken depending on plaque size/location. Also to note, this can be quite a painful method!