Hair Removal

How to Treat Folliculitis (Even After Laser Hair Removal)

What Causes Folliculitis – And How Laser Hair Removal Can Help

If you’ve ever noticed small red bumps on your skin after shaving, waxing, or even laser hair removal, you might’ve dealt with folliculitis. This common skin condition happens when hair follicles become inflamed or infected—and one of the biggest culprits is shaving. The good news? Laser hair removal can help prevent folliculitis in the long run by reducing ingrown hairs and making your skin smoother and less prone to irritation over time.

Let’s break down what folliculitis is, why it can happen during laser hair removal treatments, and how to treat and prevent it—so you can feel confident in your skin, both during and after the process.

What Is Folliculitis—and What Causes It?

Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles that often shows up as tiny red or white bumps, sometimes filled with pus. It can be itchy, painful, or just plain annoying. It’s most common in areas that experience friction or frequent hair removal—like your legs, underarms, bikini line, or back.

Some of the most common causes of folliculitis include:

  • Shaving: Razor blades can create small nicks in the skin and push hairs back into the follicles, leading to irritation or infection.

  • Friction: Tight clothing or repeated rubbing can irritate follicles.

  • Sweating: Excess moisture traps bacteria against your skin.

  • Hair Removal Methods: Waxing, plucking, and yes—even laser hair removal—can occasionally cause folliculitis, especially during the early stages of treatment.

Why You Might Get Folliculitis During Laser Hair Removal

While laser hair removal is designed to reduce hair growth long-term, the treatment process itself can occasionally trigger folliculitis. Here’s why that happens:

  • Temporary Irritation: The heat from the laser can cause short-term inflammation in the hair follicles.

  • Bacteria: Open pores immediately after treatment can allow bacteria to enter.

  • Ingrown Hairs: As the hair follicle is damaged and sheds hair, some may grow inward before they stop growing altogether.

It’s worth noting: These bumps are usually mild and temporary—and once your treatment series is complete, you’ll likely see fewer ingrowns and less folliculitis than you would with shaving or waxing.

How to Treat Mild Folliculitis at Home

If you do experience mild folliculitis, it usually clears up on its own. But you can help speed things along with a few simple steps:

1. Keep the Area Clean

Gently wash with a mild, antibacterial cleanser twice a day. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh soaps—those can make irritation worse.

2. Soothe with a Cool Compress

Apply a clean, cold compress for 10–15 minutes to help calm inflammation and reduce itching or swelling.

3. Use Over-the-Counter Treatments

Look for topical products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to help fight bacteria and promote healing.

When to See a Dermatologist

While most cases of folliculitis are harmless, some situations call for professional help:

  • It’s not improving: If symptoms stick around for more than a week or two.

  • It looks infected: Spreading redness, swelling, or pus-filled bumps.

  • It’s painful or severe: Particularly if it interferes with daily activities.

  • You have a skin condition: If you have eczema, psoriasis, or another underlying issue, talk to a pro.

 How to Prevent Folliculitis—Before and After Laser Hair Removal

Want to skip the bumps altogether? These tips can help prevent folliculitis, whether you’re shaving, waxing, or getting laser hair removal:

  • Ditch the Razor (Eventually): One of the long-term benefits of laser hair removal is a dramatic reduction in the need to shave, which means less risk of irritation or infection.

  • Choose a Trusted Provider: Make sure you’re working with skilled professionals who use medical-grade equipment—like our expert clinicians at LaserAway.

  • Prep Your Skin: Gently exfoliate a day or two before treatment (unless advised otherwise) to remove dead skin cells.

  • Follow Post-Treatment Guidelines:

    • Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24–48 hours.

    • Skip hot tubs, saunas, or tight clothing for a few days.

    • Use fragrance-free moisturizers to keep skin calm.

Common Questions About Folliculitis and Laser Hair Removal

What’s the fastest way to get rid of folliculitis?
 

Gentle cleansing, OTC treatments, and a cool compress usually do the trick. If things don’t improve in a week or so, check in with a dermatologist.

Is it normal to get bumps after laser hair removal?


Yes, mild redness or small bumps are common post-treatment and usually go away quickly. These aren’t always folliculitis, but if they linger or worsen, it’s best to have them checked.

Can laser hair removal cause folliculitis?


 Occasionally—but it’s far less likely than with shaving or waxing. And once your treatments are complete, folliculitis often becomes a thing of the past.

Say Goodbye to Folliculitis—For Good

Laser hair removal isn’t just about long-term hair reduction—it’s about smoother, healthier skin. If folliculitis has been getting in the way of your confidence, laser hair removal might actually be part of the solution. At LaserAway, our experienced clinicians are here to make your journey safe, seamless, and stress-free.

Ready to ditch the razor and reclaim your skin? Talk to one of our treatment specialists today. 

References

  1. “Folliculitis,” American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, n.d.