What is Paradoxical Hypertrichosis?

Paradoxical Hypertrichosis is when laser hair removal can paradoxically cause excess hair growth (hypertrichosis).

This happens because laser can stimulate hair follicles, which can cause an increase in hair density, colour or coarseness - or a combination of these - at or near treated sites in the absence of any other known causes of hypertrichosis. This is also known as terminalization, induction and excessive terminal hair growth, as per this article in Dermatologic Surgery

Paradoxical Hypertrichosis can happen in up to 10% of clients who receive laser hair removal treatments.

The highest incidents of Paradoxical Hypertrichosis occurs in the following areas for:

Women - face & neck (neck, upper lip, chin, cheeks & sideburns).

Women who have these hormonal conditions are at a greater risk of experiencing Paradoxical Hypertrichosis:

• PCOS / PCOD - Polycystic Ovation Syndrome / Polycystic Ovation Disorder
• Cushing's Syndrome
• NCAH - Non-Classic Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
• Androgen-Secreting Tumour

Men - upper torso (chest, back, shoulders)

People taking hormone supplements, or corticosteroids also have a higher chance of experiencing Paradoxical Hypertrichosis.

Antihistamines, tetracycline antibiotics, oral contraceptives are known to be photosensitive (sensitive to light) among many other drugs and being photosensitive can cause burns when having Laser treatments & should be stopped before laser treatments. Obviously, check with your Dr before stopping any medications. 

The long & short of it - be aware of Laser. Do your research - recognize that if you decide to go ahead with Laser, it could result in Paradoxical Hypertrichosis....and do you really want to risk that?