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What Causes Bumps On Lower Legs Post Laser Hair Removal?

Posted on Wed, 6 May 2015

Question: Hi. I had laser hair removal one week ago. It was my second time doing so on my lower legs. The lowest possible setting was used the first time, and was not changed for the second round, 5 weeks later. the day after my session, my skin developed many small, inflamed, red bumps that seem to be at the sites of the hair follicles. They were extremely itchy. I applied cool compresses and cortisone cream with aloe, which helped the itchiness. The itchiness is gone now, but the bumps remain. A few are larger and more tender. Most are small, raised, and red. Some are whiter than my normal skin around the bump. Can I treat this over the counter? When might I expect these unsightly, annoying bumps to go away? I have called the medspa, and they are clueless, but offered my silvadene (sp?) cream.

Answered by Dr. Hardik Pitroda (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Topical hydrocortisone

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for writing to us on HCM.
Such bumps are very common after hair removal procedures as its basically a local skin irritation due to the procedure.
I would suggest you application of OTC hydrocortisone cream thrice a day for 1 week.Also you can apply soothing calamine lotion.
Take antihistaminics like Benadryl to relieve itching and discomfort.
cold compresses will help alot.
I am sure you will be fine soon.
Take care
De Hardik Pitroda

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Hardik Pitroda (8 minutes later)

It is common for these bumps to last more than a week, as mine have? When can I expect them to go away?

Answered by Dr. Hardik Pitroda (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It will take few days to resolve

Detailed Answer:
Since you haven't applied anything it was healing slowly. Once you start applying hydrocortisone cream, they should resolve in 5-6 days.

If you have any more queries do get back.

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta