What is a common side effect of laser hair removal?

Temporary redness and swelling are common side effects of laser hair removal due to the nature of the procedure. Laser hair removal works by directing concentrated beams of light at the hair follicles, which can cause the surrounding skin to react. This reaction can manifest as redness and mild swelling in the treated area, similar to how skin may react to other types of energy-based treatments or even sun exposure. These symptoms are generally mild and resolve within a few hours or days post-treatment, indicating the skin is healing.

In the context of the other options, while permanent hair loss is indeed a goal of laser hair removal, it doesn’t classify as a side effect but rather as an intended result of the treatment. Increased hair growth is uncommon, as the procedure is designed to reduce hair, not stimulate growth, and skin peeling is not a typical side effect either. Instead, it can occur in certain cases but is not commonly experienced by patients. Therefore, understanding these common responses can help individuals prepare for what to expect after their procedure.