Is it common for patients having laser hair reduction on the lower legs to encounter itching, swelling, red welts, etc? Is this an allergic reaction to the DCD cryogen?
It is recommended that patients shave their legs the day prior to having laser hair reduction treatments. This is done to alleviate any irritation to the lower legs. Shaving the day of treatment increases the likelihood of itching, swelling and red welts. It is unknown what the mechanism that causes these symptoms. Patients that experience this can apply cool compresses and take an antihistamine to resolve the issues.
