Pregnancy is a wild ride filled with excitement, wonder, and a fair share of curveballs your body throws at you. From growing a tiny human to navigating hormonal changes, there’s a lot going on. Amid all these changes, questions about what’s safe and what’s not often pop up, especially when it comes to beauty routines. A common question is: Can I get laser hair removal while I’m pregnant? Let’s take a closer look at what the experts say about this one.
Why the fuss about laser hair removal during pregnancy?
If you’ve noticed more hair popping up in unexpected places during pregnancy, you’re not alone. Those hormones working overtime to support your baby are also responsible for increased hair growth. Naturally, you might be tempted to turn to laser hair removal for a quick fix — but here’s why it might not be the best idea right now.
What exactly is laser hair removal?
Before diving into the pregnancy-specific concerns, it’s helpful to understand what laser hair removal is and how it works. In simple terms, this treatment uses concentrated beams of light to zap away hair follicles. The pigment in your hair absorbs the light, which then damages the follicle enough to slow or stop future growth. For best results, you typically need multiple sessions spaced a few weeks apart. It’s a convenient, long-term solution for many people looking to ditch razors and waxing strips. But during pregnancy, the game changes a bit. Let’s talk about why healthcare providers advise hitting the pause button on laser treatments.
Why laser hair removal isn’t recommended during pregnancy
Not enough research on safety
When it comes to your baby’s health, the golden rule is “Better safe than sorry.” According to the American Pregnancy Association, there isn’t enough research to definitively say laser hair removal is 100% safe during pregnancy. While the laser doesn’t penetrate deeply enough to reach the fetus, medical experts tend to recommend avoiding unnecessary procedures during pregnancy, just in case.
Your skin is more sensitive
Thanks to pregnancy hormones, your skin might be more prone to irritation, hyperpigmentation, or even scarring. The laser, which involves heat and light energy, could amplify these issues. What’s more, the changes in your skin’s sensitivity can make the treatment more uncomfortable than it would normally be.
Hair growth might change anyway
Here’s the kicker: pregnancy hormones don’t just increase hair growth; they also make it unpredictable. And, per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), your hair should return to normal within 6 months after giving birth. So, you might be spending money on zapping hair that won’t even stick around for the long haul. Why not wait and see what stays post-pregnancy?
So, what can you do about unwanted hair during pregnancy?
If laser hair removal is off the table for now, don’t worry. You’ve got other safe options for managing unwanted hair until you’re ready to revisit the laser down the road.
- Shaving: Good old-fashioned shaving remains a reliable option. It’s safe during pregnancy and can be done as often as needed. Just take extra care, especially if your growing belly is making it harder to see or reach certain areas. A shower mirror, a quality razor, and a steady hand can be lifesavers!
- Tweezing or threading: These manual methods are safe and chemical-free. They’re great for smaller areas like your eyebrows or upper lip.
- Waxing: Waxing is generally safe, but keep in mind that your skin might be more sensitive than usual. A patch test is a good idea to make sure your skin doesn’t react badly. And maybe avoid waxing close to your due date; it’s one less discomfort to deal with!
- Depilatory creams: These are a bit more controversial. Some experts suggest avoiding them due to the strong chemicals they contain, while others say they’re fine if used in a well-ventilated space. If you go this route, definitely consult with your doctor first, and select a product that's safe for sensitive skin.
Talk to your healthcare provider
Here’s the thing: no two pregnancies are the same. Your best bet is to talk to your OB/GYN about any concerns or treatments you’re considering. They’ll know your specific health history and can give advice tailored just for you.
The good news is that laser hair removal can absolutely be part of your postpartum self-care plan if you’re still interested. Many experts suggest waiting until after you’ve finished breastfeeding to resume or start treatments. This allows your hormones to settle, your skin to return to its normal sensitivity levels, and your hair growth patterns to stabilize. In the meantime, embrace the beauty of what your body is doing — it’s nothing short of amazing! A few extra hairs here and there might feel like a nuisance now, but they’re just a temporary part of this incredible journey.
While laser hair removal during pregnancy isn’t recommended, there are plenty of safe ways to manage hair in the meantime. Shaving, waxing, tweezing, and threading are all effective alternatives to keep you feeling like your best self. Always prioritize safety (yours and your baby’s), and don’t hesitate to ask your doctor if you have any doubts. Remember, pregnancy is temporary, and the little life you’re nurturing makes every adjustment worth it. And hey, that laser? It’ll be waiting for you when you’re ready!
Kristyn Hodgdon is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Rescripted.
