I once read an article that stated that a large amount of the population that went through the laser hair removal process had developed cancer over the years. Is it true that laser hair removal causes cancer?

Laser hair removal process basically involves focusing a light beam of a specific wavelength at the hair follicles. The black melanin pigment in the growing hair follicle absorbs the light and produces heat to damage the growing hair cells, thereby reducing hair growth. A lot of people are concerned about risks of cancer from this laser light. However, the rays which can cause skin cancer are mainly UV rays present in sunlight which can penetrate deep inside skin and change the genetic structure of growing skin cells. Apart from this, ionizing radiation as released in Xrays can also penetrate inside the body and induce cancer in different cells. These rays are invisible.

The laser used for hair removal is of a different wavelength of visible light. It has no ionizing power and cannot penetrate inside cells or affect their genetic structure. Neither does it have properties of UV light to damage cells or cause tan. They are only designed to be absorbed by the black melanin pigment to generate heat and not affect other skin cells. Hence, they are safe to take even over long terms.

If you are interested in laser hair removal, consult a dermatologist for a safe and effective procedure without bearing any worry about cancer.

Asked by Neethi on 14/10/2023 15:51 PM

Answered on 18/10/2023 12:01 PM

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