Removing hair during pregnancy

There are many hair removal methods that remove unwanted hair and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is one of the newest technologies to help remove hair permanently.

This process is similar to laser in that it stops the hair follicle from producing more hair. Once the hair falls out then, as the theory goes, the follicle will produce no more. IPL is one kind of treatment which is also known as photo rejuvenation treatment. However, the IPL process is not suitable for breastfeeding or pregnant women.

The main reason is that a pregnant woman produces different chemicals during this period. Therefore, their bodies will reject many treatments that are not natural. And since IPL is not a natural method of removing hair, pregnant women's bodies reject it. It should be pointed out that it's not just IPL that is not suitable for pregnant women. Other hair removal methods such as waxing, hair removal cream and electrolysis are not advised. Many women have had major allergic reactions when they have used waxing as their hair removal method during pregnancy even if they had used it previously without side effects.

The reason behind this is that during pregnancy, a woman's body experiences many major hormonal changes. Their skin becomes very sensitive and it has been found that their level of progesterone hormone increases. This is the major reason why some pregnant women develop thick and dark hair around their abdominal area. Women who never had hair in that area maybe shocked to notice hair growth in their abdominal zone during pregnancy.

Pregnant women have experienced many adverse effects in the process of IPL hair removal therefore it is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Research needs to be undertaken to determine how pregnant women can have permanent hair removal during this period. Until then, an expectant mother you should not visit any hair removal clinic for treatments such as IPL, laser or waxing.

Other hair removal methods such as shaving can be performed if done carefully. Like all walks of life, there are some less reputable people out there that will still take your money and not advise you correctly about such precautions. However, the vast majority of companies will inform you of the risks of certain hair removal techniques during pregnancy.

Many international medical regulations clearly state that any woman, who is pregnant, should not take any medicines or should not submit to any medical treatments which could cause adverse effects on the unborn baby. Certain hair removal methods fall in this category and should be totally avoided. Any business that deviates from these regulations could be exposed to legal ramifications if they permit such treatments.

If you have had IPL treatment during pregnancy then you'll be relieved to hear that the process is 'teratogenic', which means that IPL doesn't affect the fetus. In IPL, the thermo effect of light penetrates at most to a depth of 6 mm, which clearly means that it is limited to skin only and does not penetrate inside the muscles or any other parts of your body.

Therefore, before using any hair removal method during pregnancy or breast feeding, discuss this with your doctor first to be on the safe side.