Can I Get Face Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant?

Youmna Rehman • June 14, 2025

Pregnancy brings about many physical changes, including hormonal fluctuations that can increase hair growth in unusual areas—like your face. So it's natural to wonder whether laser hair removal is a safe and practical solution during this time. But as eager as you might be to deal with unwanted hair, the answer isn't always straightforward.

Laser hair removal works by targeting pigment in the hair follicle with concentrated light energy, disabling it to reduce future growth. While the procedure is largely considered safe for the average adult, the question of whether it’s suitable during pregnancy is a different story.


Can i bleach my face after laser hair removal?


Is Laser Hair Removal Safe During Pregnancy?

Currently, there is no conclusive scientific evidence proving that laser hair removal is harmful during pregnancy. However, there’s also no solid proof confirming it’s 100% safe, especially when it comes to treating facial areas. Because of this grey area, many dermatologists and licensed laser technicians recommend postponing treatment until after childbirth.

The main reason? Precaution. Pregnancy is a delicate time, and medical experts prefer to avoid any unnecessary procedures that might cause discomfort, skin reactions, or complications—however minor.


Why Most Experts Recommend Waiting

Even if laser energy is only targeting the skin’s surface, and not penetrating deep enough to affect your baby, your body’s hormonal and skin sensitivity changes during pregnancy may make you more prone to side effects.

Here are a few reasons laser hair removal is often discouraged during pregnancy:

1. Increased Skin Sensitivity

Pregnant skin is more delicate and reactive due to increased estrogen levels. This means a treatment that once felt like a mild sting could now feel more intense, potentially leading to irritation, burns, or pigmentation.

2. Hormonal Hair Growth Is Temporary

Most of the excess facial hair caused during pregnancy is due to elevated androgen levels and tends to fall out or thin naturally after delivery. So treating it with lasers might be unnecessary long-term.

3. Lack of Research on Fetal Safety

Ethical limitations mean there haven’t been many studies on the effects of laser procedures on pregnant individuals and their unborn babies. With that uncertainty, most professionals lean on the side of caution.


What About the First Trimester?

The first trimester is considered the most sensitive and crucial stage of fetal development. Because of that, even the most minimal non-essential treatments—like laser hair removal—are typically avoided. Whether it’s on the face or elsewhere, most clinics will not perform laser treatments on pregnant women during this stage.


Are There Alternatives for Facial Hair During Pregnancy?

Yes, and many are much safer options. If you’re struggling with facial hair while pregnant, consider the following alternatives:

  • Tweezing or threading: These methods only affect the surface and are safe during pregnancy.
  • Using a facial razor: Quick, easy, and gentle.
  • Depilatory creams (if advised by your doctor): Some mild formulas may be okay, but always do a patch test.

It’s best to skip waxing if your skin feels extra sensitive or reactive, as this can lead to irritation or even scarring.


Can I Resume Laser Hair Removal After Giving Birth?

Most people can safely resume facial laser hair removal a few months postpartum, once hormone levels return to normal and breastfeeding has stopped (depending on clinic policy).

If you're breastfeeding, some clinics may still advise waiting until you’re done nursing before resuming laser treatments. This is again due to hormonal fluctuations, not because laser will affect breast milk or your baby directly.


What Do Dermatologists Say?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), cosmetic procedures like laser treatments are best delayed until after pregnancy. Huggie Beauty’s certified laser professionals echo the same: while there's no proven harm, it’s simply safer to wait—especially when gentler options exist in the meantime.


Final Thoughts: Postpone for Peace of Mind

While the temptation to maintain facial hair-free skin is understandable, pregnancy is not the ideal time to experiment with laser hair removal—especially on sensitive facial areas. The safest choice is to wait until after your baby arrives and your hormones have had time to reset.

In the meantime, stick to pregnancy-safe hair removal alternatives and consult your dermatologist or OB-GYN for any concerns.

BOOK YOUR FREE SESSION

Underarm Laser Hair Removal for Men: What to Expect
By Youmna Rehman August 6, 2025
Curious about underarm laser hair removal for men? Discover what to expect, how it works, pain levels, session details, and long-term benefits in this in-depth guide.
By Youmna Rehman August 4, 2025
Nervous about your first underarm laser session? Learn exactly how to prepare—from what to avoid weeks before to what to do on the day. Expert tips for smoother, safer results.
How Long Does an Underarm Laser Session Take?
By Youmna Rehman July 31, 2025
If you’ re thinking about getting laser hair removal for your underarms, one of the first questions you’ll likely have is: “How long does the session actually take?” The short answer? Not long. But there’s a lot more to it than just time on the clock. From prep to post-care, each session involves specific steps that affect not only how long you’ll be in the clinic but also how effective your results will be. This guide breaks it all down, so you know exactly what to expect. What Not to Do Before and After Underarm Laser Hair Removal Why Laser Hair Removal for Underarms Is So Popular The underarms are one of the most commonly treated areas for laser hair removal, and it’s easy to see why. The area is small, which means treatments are quick. Plus, the hair tends to be darker and coarser, making it more responsive to the laser. For many people, a few sessions can mean smoother skin and a serious reduction in regrowth. How Long Does the Actual Laser Session Take? Most underarm laser sessions take about 10 to 15 minutes . That’s it. This includes the time it takes for the technician to prepare the skin, adjust the laser settings, and apply the treatment to both underarms. If you’ve shaved properly beforehand (which is usually recommended), the session will go even faster. Here’s a breakdown of what usually happens during that time: Quick skin check by the technician Wiping the area clean if needed Application of the laser pulses (this usually takes just 5-7 minutes for both underarms) Optional application of soothing gel or aloe afterward You’ll be in and out in less time than it takes to scroll Instagram. Factors That Can Affect Session Duration While 10–15 minutes is the average, a few things can make your session take slightly longer or shorter. Skin and Hair Type : Coarser or denser hair might require more laser passes. Pain Tolerance : If you’re sensitive to the laser sensation, you might need breaks. Technician Technique : Some clinics use faster machines or more experienced technicians, which can speed things up. Pre-Treatment Preparation : If you forgot to shave or have residual deodorant on your skin, the technician may need to clean or prep the area, adding a few minutes. What About the First Appointment? Your first laser hair removal appointme nt will likely be a bit longer — around 20 to 30 minutes total. That’s because the technician will go over your medical history, explain the procedure, perform a patch test, and answer any questions you may have. But once you get into the routine of regular sessions, the actual laser part rema ins quick. Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Really Work? How Many Sessions Will You Need? Most people need 6 to 8 sessions for optimal results, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart. Some people see a significant reduction in hair growth after just a few sessions, but consistency is key. The speed of the sessions makes it easier to stick to your treatment plan. Can You Schedule During a Lunch Break? Yes, and that’s one of the best things about underarm laser hair removal . Since the session is so short, it’s ideal for squeezing in between classes, errands, or during a break from work. There's no downtime required, so you can go back to your day immediately. Aftercare: Does That Add Time? After your session, you might experience mild redness or a warm sensation on your skin. Applying aloe vera or a soothing lotion is usually enough. The aftercare process is simple and doesn’t take much time, but avoid applying deodorant or taking hot showers for at least 24 hours. Laser vs. Other Hair Removal Methods (Time Comparison) If you’re used to shaving every few days or waxing every few weeks, laser hair removal is a major time-saver in the long run. Here’s how it compares: Shaving : Takes 3–5 minutes per session, multiple times a week Waxing : Takes about 30 minutes every 2–4 weeks Laser : 10–15 minutes every 4–6 weeks, and long-term results after 6–8 sessions Final Thoughts Laser hair removal for underarms is one of the quickest cosmetic treatments available. In just 10 to 15 minutes per session, you’re working toward long-lasting smoothness and ditching the hassle of razors or waxing strips. Whether you’re fitting it into a busy schedule or just tired of constant upkeep, underarm laser is quick, effective, and surprisingly convenient.
Can You Shave Before or After Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
By Youmna Rehman July 30, 2025
Wondering if you can shave before or after underarm laser hair removal? Learn the best timing, do’s and don’ts, and how shaving impacts results. Expert-backed guide for safe, smooth skin.
By Youmna Rehman July 29, 2025
Worried laser hair removal might darken your underarms? Discover the truth behind this common concern, bust myths, and learn how to prevent pigmentation issues with expert-backed insights.
How Long Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Last?
By Youmna Rehman July 28, 2025
Wondering how long underarm laser hair removal lasts? Discover what to expect after your sessions, how permanent the results are, and how to make them last longer—plus expert tips, timelines, and real experiences.
By Youmna Rehman July 28, 2025
Wondering if you can wash your underarms after laser hair removal? This in-depth guide explains how long to wait before showering, what to avoid, and the best aftercare practices—straight from experts and real experiences.
What Not to Do Before and After Underarm Laser Hair Removal
By Youmna Rehman July 28, 2025
Learn what to avoid before and after underarm laser hair removal to ensure safe, effective, and irritation‑free results—from sun exposure and waxing to deodorants, workouts, and active skincare products.
Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
By Youmna Rehman July 26, 2025
Wondering if underarm laser hair removal hurts? This in-depth guide breaks down what it feels like, pain levels, user reviews, expert insights, and proven ways to reduce discomfort for smoother, stress-free sessions.
Can I Use Deodorant After Underarm Laser Hair Removal?
By Youmna Rehman July 26, 2025
Wondering if you can use deodorant after underarm laser hair removal? Learn when it’s safe, what types to avoid, expert tips, Reddit experiences, and the best alternatives to stay fresh without irritating your skin.
More Posts