Many people think of laser hair removal as a cosmetic procedure. But in some cases, laser hair removal is used as a medical treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent painful skin conditions.

Dr. Carla Torres-Zegarra, a dermatologist at CU Medicine Dermatology – Montview Blvd (CU Medicine Building), explains how medical laser hair removal works, which conditions it can help treat and when patients should seek care.

“There’s true value in receiving medical laser hair removal to help with some medical conditions of the skin,” shared Dr. Torres-Zegarra. Common conditions that can be treated with laser hair removal are hidradenitis suppurativa, pseudofolliculitis barbae and pilonidal cysts.

What is Medical Laser Hair Removal?

Medical laser hair removal is a dermatologic treatment that reduces hair density in order to decrease inflammation in certain skin conditions.

The laser targets the hair follicle and damages it, which reduces future hair growth. By decreasing the number and thickness of hairs, the treatment can reduce ingrown hairs and recurrent inflammation in hair-bearing areas.

Unlike cosmetic laser hair removal, medical laser hair removal is performed to manage chronic skin conditions, not just reduce unwanted hair.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal works by delivering concentrated light energy into the hair follicle. The pigment in the hair absorbs the light, which damages the follicle and reduces its ability to grow new hair.

Over a series of treatments:

• Hair becomes thinner
• Hair grows back more slowly
• Overall hair density decreases
  

It is important to understand that medical laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, not permanent hair removal. Most patients experience a significant decrease in hair growth, but some regrowth can occur over time, especially with hormonal changes.

What Conditions Can Medical Laser Hair Removal Treat?

“Medical laser hair removal can help reduce inflammation in hair-bearing areas such as the underarms, groin areas, beard area and between the buttocks,” said Dr. Torres-Zegarra.

Conditions that may benefit from medical laser hair removal are:

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses and scarring in areas where skin rubs together.

It commonly affects the underarms, inguinal folds and buttocks. Reducing hair density in these areas may help decrease inflammation and flare-ups.

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a condition in which shaved hairs curl back into the skin, causing painful razor bumps and inflammation.

It most commonly affects the beard area. Laser hair removal can reduce ingrown hairs and chronic irritation.

Pilonidal Cysts

A pilonidal cyst is a painful cyst or abscess that develops near the tailbone, often caused by ingrown hairs and trapped debris.

By reducing hair growth in the area between the buttocks, laser hair removal may decrease recurrence after treatment.

Is Medical Laser Hair Removal Covered by Insurance?

Insurance coverage for medical laser hair removal depends on the diagnosis and documentation of medical necessity. Dr. Torres-Zegarra shared, “With proper diagnosis of the skin condition, documentation and supporting photos, it may be covered. But you should always check with your insurance.”

When laser hair removal is prescribed to manage a chronic inflammatory condition, it may qualify for coverage. Patients should consult their dermatologist and insurance provider for specific eligibility requirements.

What are the Signs You Should See a Dermatologist?

You should consider scheduling an appointment if you experience:

• Tender red bumps that are painful
• Recurrent ingrown hairs
• Drainage or abscess formation
• Scaring in hair-bearing areas
• Chronic irritation that does not improve with over-the-counter treatments

Early evaluation can help prevent worsening inflammation and scarring.

Click to learn more about Dr. Carla Torres-Zegarra or schedule an appointment at CU Medicine Dermatology – Montview Blvd (CU Medicine Building).