Does Laser Hair Removal Help with Ingrown Hairs and Razor Bumps?
Ingrown hairs and razor bumps are more than just annoying—they’re painful, persistent, and can leave behind dark marks or scars. If you’re constantly battling bumps after shaving or waxing, you might be wondering: Does laser hair removal help with ingrown hairs and razor bumps? The answer is yes—and here’s why.
Why Do Ingrown Hairs and Razor Bumps Occur?
Ingrown hairs happen when hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin instead of rising up from it. This can lead to inflammation, redness, and even infection. Razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae) are a form of ingrown hairs that typically occur after shaving, especially in areas with coarse or curly hair.
Common causes include:
- Shaving too closely
- Dead skin clogging hair follicles
- Waxing or tweezing
- Friction from tight clothing
Over time, this repeated irritation can damage the skin and result in long-term discolouration or textural changes.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target and destroy hair follicles beneath the skin. The pigment in the hair absorbs the laser’s energy, which damages the follicle enough to slow or stop future hair growth.
By treating the root cause of the problem—unwanted hair—laser hair removal significantly reduces the chance of hairs becoming trapped under the skin.
Can Laser Hair Removal Get Rid of Ingrown Hairs?
Yes! Laser hair removal is one of the most effective solutions for treating and preventing ingrown hairs.
By eliminating hair at the follicle, there’s no opportunity for hair to curl back into the skin. As treatments progress and hair becomes finer or disappears entirely, skin texture often becomes smoother, less inflamed, and visibly clearer.
This makes lasers to remove ingrown hair especially popular in high-irritation zones like the bikini line, underarms, and beard area.
Clinical Insights: Why Laser Works
Laser hair removal is widely supported by dermatologists for its effectiveness in reducing ingrown hairs. The American Academy of Dermatology reports a 70–90% reduction in ingrown hairs after a full course of treatment.
A clinical study published in Archives of Dermatology also found that diode laser treatment significantly improved razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae) over just 8 weeks. Read the study
While the study dates back to 2000, current dermatology guidelines continue to support lasers as a safe and effective long-term solution for ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
Long-Term Benefits vs. Temporary Methods
Unlike shaving or waxing, which can actually increase your risk of ingrown hairs, laser hair removal offers long-term relief.
Temporary methods:
- Provide short-lived results
- Can worsen razor bumps
- Often cause irritation or ingrowns
Laser hair removal and ingrowns:
- Reduces hair growth long-term
- Prevents new ingrown hairs from forming
- Improves overall skin texture and tone
So if you’ve been dealing with painful razor bumps, laser hair removal might be your best long-term solution.
Is Laser Hair Removal Right for You?
Laser hair removal is suitable for most skin types and tones, but it works best on individuals with light skin and dark, coarse hair. However, modern laser technology—like the ones we use at Evolution Laser Clinic—have been designed to work on a wider range of skin tones safely and effectively.
You’re a great candidate if you:
- Experience frequent ingrown hairs
- Have sensitive skin prone to razor bumps
- Want smoother skin and reduced hair growth
If you’re wondering, Can you get laser hair removal with razor bumps already present?—yes, but it’s important to have a consultation first to assess skin condition and determine timing.
Before & Aftercare Tips for Best Results
Before your appointment:
- Avoid waxing or plucking (shaving is okay)
- Don’t exfoliate 24 hours before treatment
- Avoid sun exposure to the area
After your appointment:
- Apply aloe vera or a gentle soothing product
- Avoid heat (saunas, hot showers) for 24 hours
- Skip gym workouts for 24 hours to reduce irritation
Following these steps helps ensure a smoother recovery and better results.
Say Goodbye to Ingrowns — For Good
Ingrown hairs and razor bumps don’t have to be a permanent part of your routine. With laser hair removal, they can become a thing of the past.
Book your complimentary consultation at Evolution Laser Clinic today and let our experts help you achieve smoother, bump-free skin.
Be sure to check our current laser hair removal sale for limited-time pricing on selected areas.
