Do you suffer from the skin condition, psoriasis? Does waxing, threading, or shaving give you a hard time? Then this article is for you!

Psoriasis is a resistant autoimmune disease that irritates the skin. The skin may have raised plaques and scales and visible signs of inflammation in psoriasis making it difficult to thread or wax.

People with psoriasis are often concerned about applying hair removal products or getting treatments done. Some of the most existent questions are around laser hair removal with psoriasis. Here's what you need to know about laser hair removal and psoriasis.

Conventional hair removal methods in psoriasis and their effects

In psoriasis, hair removal may be tricky. Here are the methods used to remove hair and their effects on psoriasis:

Shaving:

Shaving can irritate the skin and leave a few small cuts and nicks behind. If one cuts oneself, new psoriasis flare-ups may also appear within 10 to 14 days. One may shave with psoriasis, but taking precautions like moisturizing and shaving slowly is important. One must also change razors to avoid any skin irritation.

Waxing:

Although waxing can remove hair effectively, it may not suit people with psoriasis as the pulling motion of the wax strip may irritate the skin and aggravate psoriasis. People with psoriasis may also have more sensitive skin, making waxing more uncomfortable.

Depilatory creams:

Some prefer this method because it is simple and convenient. One has to apply the product to the area of the skin, wait some time, and then wash it off with water. 

While it doesn't cause any external irritation, one must be cautious. A patch test may be done on a small area of the skin. Any redness, discolouration, burning, or pain is a warning to avoid the product.

Laser Hair Removal and Psoriasis 

Laser hair removal works by sending a laser light pulse down the hair follicle, killing the hair's root and stopping it from growing back. It is often said that this hair removal method can improve psoriasis plaques given the laser light. 

While there is no proper evidence, it is a less bothersome method for getting rid of hair than shaving and waxing, especially, if you regularly do that for delicate regions, like the underarms and bikini area. Laser hair removal generally provides a significant reduction (70 to 80%) in hair growth after multiple sessions.

It is important to note that laser hair removal depends on the seriousness of psoriasis. Laser is effective if the condition is mild. However, treatment may be limited if the condition is more severe. 

The most crucial aspect is safeguarding the skin. If you have this condition, you should consult a dermatologist to get it checked and discuss the effects of laser hair removal on psoriasis. The dermatologist will recommend whether laser hair removal would be best for you.

At Uncover, they have a skilled team of professionals and experienced dermatologists with immense knowledge of these treatments and skin in general. If you are suitable for laser hair removal, plans at UnCover start at Rs. 1800 for face parts, Rs 3500 for armpits and Rs 8500 for arms or legs. There are also deals on booking multiple sessions (3 or 6 sessions) and yearly packages with free unlimited sessions. 

Effects of Laser Hair Removal on Psoriasis 

Laser hair removal has minimal side effects in general. But with psoriasis, one has to be careful about the skin's sensitivity. Generally, the process is safe, if done under medical supervision, following the correct protocol and pre and post-care instructions. However, some people may encounter side effects that usually go away within hours or days. With psoriasis, it's best to consult a doctor if you face any irritation or flare-ups. 

• Irritation: There is a possibility of temporary discomfort and swelling. Most of the time, these symptoms go away within a few hours. But, laser hair removal and psoriasis require constant observation. If the condition flares up, it's best to see a dermatologist.
• Pigmentation: The affected skin may become lighter or darker after laser hair removal. But, this may be avoided by following the pre-care and post-care instructions properly. Skin lightening mostly affects people who don't avoid the sun before or after treatment.
• Redness: Many individuals experience redness in the impacted regions. The skin may feel delicate, and even seem somewhat swollen. Usually, the symptoms last only a short time. The affected area may resemble freshly waxed or plucked skin in appearance. But again, if psoriasis flares up, it's important to consult a doctor.

Before & after care for Psoriasis Laser Hair Removal

If you are a suitable candidate and choose to get laser hair removal, it's important to take proper precautions. Several preventative measures can help to prevent psoriasis to flare up. Some of them include the following:

• Light exfoliation is recommended instead of harsh exfoliation. Use loofahs and scrubs that are soft. Three to four days before your session, stop exfoliating.
• To get rid of hair before the session, shaving is the only good idea. Before your first session, stop waxing for four to six weeks. Also, avoid using hair removal cream because it may irritate the skin.
• Avoid cold temperatures because they can dry the skin and make it very sensitive. Avoid using cold showers or plunge pools during your course because this can cause flare-ups.
• It's best to stay away from anything that might make you sweat. The laser's heat will irritate your hair follicles after treatment. This will only get worse if you sweat.
• During your course, you must protect your skin from the sun. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen that suits your skin
• Inform the professionals immediately if you begin taking any new medications during your treatment period. This should be done to ensure safety.
• Cotton is the best choice of clothing after the treatment. This is because it will let your skin cool quickly in the heat. 
• Avoid touching your treatment area immediately following your session. During this time, the follicles will be sensitive, making them susceptible to bacteria.

Wrap up 

Psoriasis is a chronic immunological disorder that causes scaly and inflamed patches of skin, typically on the scalp, elbows, or knees. Other parts of the body may also be affected by the condition.

A major concern around psoriasis is conventional hair removal methods that may irritate skin and cause psoriasis flare-ups. Psoriasis laser hair removal may help because it is safe and effective, does not irritate the skin, and provides long-term hair removal with a significant reduction in hair growth over multiple sessions

It is important to consult a dermatologist before getting treatment and get the treatment done at a reputed clinic such as UnCover.

CTA: At UnCover, you can book a free appointment with our experts to know about psoriasis laser hair removal. Furthermore, there are affordable treatment plans to choose from based on your specific needs. We urge you to book a trial at UnCover now at your nearest clinic location.