Can laser hair removal make you hairier? Australian skin expert reveals the truth about rising concern

Skin expert Fiona Tuck addressed concern that laser hair removal causes double regrowth

Women are turning away from laser hair removal after some reported being 'more hairy' after the treatment - especially on their face. 

But now a skin expert has explained that this outcome is a rarity and shouldn't put patients off. 

Fiona Tuck, from Sydney, told FEMAIL increased hair growth following laser hair removal - known as paradoxical hypertrichosis - is more likely to occur among those with darker skin types and can also be associated with conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

'Whilst the exact cause is unknown it appears that the risk of increased hair growth may be stimulated by low powered lasers that are not strong enough to destroy the hair roots but enough to stimulate the follicle,' Ms Tuck said.

'It may be more likely to occur in darker skin types but can happen in fairer skin types - the hair growth may be finer, lighter and less noticeable than the darker hair commonly seen on darker skin types.'

Ms Tuck also said she's seen it occur after waxing the bikini line, upper lip and lower face area.

'Measures can be taken to reduce the risk and therefore it is important to look for an experienced practitioner than can assess treatment suitability and advise on appropriate aftercare to minimise side effects,' she said.

Increased hair growth following laser hair removal - known as paradoxical hypertrichosis - is more likely to occur among those with darker skin types and can also be associated with conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) (stock image)

A conversation sparked on TikTok when brow and lash specialist Adriana Zero, from Sydney, said it's not ideal to get laser hair removal on your face. 

'Laser therapists, can we please stop lasering people's faces? We know it's not good for it, we know it exacerbates hair growth, and it stimulates hair growth in other areas of the face that didn't have hair to begin with,' she claimed.

'For anyone thinking of getting their face lasered, don't do it.'  

The now-viral video caught the attention of the masses with many women sharing their experiences with paradoxical hypertrichosis. However, opinions differed.  

'This! I wish I knew this earlier! There was a sale once so I got a full face laser (didn't even need it) and now I grow hair on my face and have to get full face laser every month,' one woman commented. 

Another said: 'Greek girl here! I've been getting my face done for seven years and haven't had any additional growth. It's completely reduced it for me!' 

'Face laser changed my life! Best investment ever and def worth the risk,' another said.

'As a bald man, where is this laser you speak of?' one man added. 

One woman said getting laser hair removal on her face was the 'worst decision of her life'.  

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