The Quaddel "TikTok Show"

What are hives and how do they form? A medical report based on some TikTok posts without professional substance or any knowledge.

How does it work?

A girl is sought who reads a script and has absolutely no idea about hair removal or medical processes. A little body movement, a smile, and voilà, you have a video intended to scare others.

Of course, professional beauticians laugh at this, but all startups are deterred by it.

For this reason, we have created a medical documentation of the effectiveness.

NISV Training Materials:

Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy rashes that can often occur as a reaction to laser hair removal treatment. These hives are caused by an inflammatory reaction of the skin. There are several mechanisms through which they can be triggered:

Histamine Release:
The laser treatment can trigger the release of histamine from mast cells in the skin. Histamine is a mediator that causes inflammation and swelling, leading to the formation of hives.

Thermal Reaction:
The laser energy is converted into heat, which destroys the hair follicles. This heat can trigger a local inflammatory reaction in the skin, which can also lead to the formation of hives.

Mechanical Irritation:
The application of the laser and the associated manipulation of the skin can cause mechanical irritation that leads to an inflammatory reaction.

Are hives primary indicators of a successful treatment?

No, hives are not primary indicators of a successful laser hair removal treatment. They are more of a temporary side effect that may occur in some patients. The success of a laser hair removal treatment is determined by other factors:

Hair Density Reduction:
A successful treatment is marked by a significant reduction in hair density in the treated area.

Sustainability of Results:
Long-term success is reflected in the continued reduction of hair growth after several treatments.

Minimal Side Effects:
A successful treatment should have minimal and temporary side effects, including skin irritation that subsides quickly.

Other Causes of Hives:

Hives can also be caused by factors unrelated to the laser treatment:

Allergic Reactions:
Patients may have allergic reactions to the gel used during the treatment or other topical products.

Skin Sensitivity:
Some patients have more sensitive skin that reacts more strongly to the laser treatment.

Improper Use of the Laser:
Incorrect laser settings or improper application can lead to excessive thermal reactions, which cause hives.

Conclusion:

Hives are a possible side effect of laser hair removal, but they are not a sign of a successful treatment. They are typically caused by the release of histamine and a local inflammatory reaction in the skin. A successful laser hair removal treatment is characterized by effective and sustainable reduction of hair growth and minimal invasive side effects.

For a detailed scientific review and evidence-based information, you can refer to professional articles and studies on this topic, such as:

• Goldberg, D. J. (2012). Laser Hair Removal. Elsevier.

• Sadick, N. S., & Boni, R. (2018). Cosmetic Dermatology for Men. Springer.

These sources provide comprehensive information on laser hair removal and the associated skin reactions.