Glossary

Paradoxical hair growth (paradoxical hypertrichosis)

Hair increasing, thickening or darkening, instead of decreasing, in the area treated with laser or IPL or immediately around it. It is uncommon and has mostly been reported on the face and neck. It is not a burn or a disease and is not an emergency.

Articles that mention this term

Safety CentreProblems after Laser Hair Removal: Increased Hair Growth, Folliculitis, Pigmentation, Eye Safety — What Can Be Done?Increased hair growth, folliculitis, pigmentation, cold sores and eye injury after laser hair removal: what is normal, what is urgent, how to reduce risk.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardSafety CentreBurns and Pigmentation Changes after Laser and IPL: Darkening, Lightening and Scarring — Prevention and What to DoWhy do burns and dark spots occur after laser and IPL, how long do they last? Blisters, darkening, lightening, scars, eye risk: what is normal, what to do.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardSafety CentreIs At-Home Laser Hair Removal Harmful? IPL Device SafetyAt-home IPL and laser hair removal devices: how they differ from clinics, who should not use them, eye safety, burns, dark spots, why never on moles.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesLaser Hair Removal: How It Works, Who It Suits and What to Watch ForHow hair reduction with laser and IPL works, why skin and hair colour matter, how many sessions are needed and what the risks are. A patient guide.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert Board

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