The removal of unwanted hair is a challenge for many trans people. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can have some role in the process, as the change hormone profile can, to a limited extent, modify the distribution of hair growth in a way that is more congruent with the person’s gender identity. Fortunately, there are other treatments that can be used to remove unwanted hair, including laser hair removal and electrolysis. In this article, we will focus on laser hair removal.

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal uses light to remove dark coarse hairs specifically. This is because the pigment in dark hair absorbs the energy from the laser, which is converted to heat and conducted down the hair shaft, where it destroys the hair follicle. Treatments are typically usually every 4 to 8 weeks. Generally, laser hair removal is not effective on light thin hair, because the effectiveness depends on the ability of the pigment to absorb the energy from the laser.

HRT and laser hair removal

Clinical experience has shown that laser hair removal is generally safe and effective for individuals receiving HRT as part of their gender affirming healthcare. Hence, trans people are no more at risk of complications from laser hair removal than cis people.

HRT typically does not interfere with the mechanisms of laser hair removal. Ostrogen and testosterone do not significantly affect the absorption of light energy by the melanin in hair follicles, which is crucial for the effectiveness of laser hair removal. Therefore, individuals undergoing HRT can expect similar outcomes from laser hair removal treatments as those who are not on hormone therapy.

Risks and contraindications

Nonetheless, as with all treatments, there are risks to laser hair treatment. These include redness, burns, blisters, and changes in skin pigmentation. Most of these complications are temporary.

There are also specific conditions that make laser hair removal inadvisable due to increased risks of medical complications. These include:

• A history of melanoma, raised moles, or lesions that could indicate skin cancer;
• A history keloid scar formation or skin healing problems;
• Active skin infections, herpetic lesions, cold sores, and open wounds;
• Photosensitive autoimmune conditions such as lupus or scleroderma;
• Tattoos in the area of treatment;
• Drugs including isotretinoin, tetracycline, and St John’s wort.

Benefits of Combined Treatment

For many transgender individuals, the combination of HRT and laser hair removal offers synergistic benefits in their journey towards gender affirmation. By simultaneously undergoing these treatments, individuals can address multiple aspects of their physical appearance, enhancing their overall sense of gender congruence and wellbeing.

Laser hair removal can be particularly empowering for transgender individuals by reducing dysphoria associated with unwanted hair growth. It enables individuals to achieve smoother skin in areas traditionally associated with their affirmed gender, promoting greater self-confidence and comfort in their bodies.

Furthermore, the long-term nature of laser hair removal means that individuals can enjoy sustained improvements in hair reduction, reducing the need for ongoing maintenance and enhancing their quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, laser hair removal is generally safe and effective for individuals undergoing HRT as part of gender affirming care. Clinical experience has demonstrated the compatibility of these treatments, with minimal additional risks or complications.