Can Laser Hair Removal Erase Keratosis Pilaris? We Asked Dermatologists (2024)

For many, having smooth skin from head-to-toe is the dream. While bumps and rough patches are completely normal, we understand it can still be an annoyance to deal with, especially when there's no clear-cut way to treat them. In this case, we're talking about keratosis pilaris (commonly known as KP)—small, red bumps that can commonly be found on the forearms, legs, and derriere. Despite being incredibly common (up to 40 percent of adults deal with it to varying degrees), there isn't a a solve-all solution. With that said, laser hair removal is said to help decrease it.

Most of the available KP treatments come in the form of moisturizing skincare products with exfoliating properties in them, such as beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). These help gently buff away the keratin buildups that clog hair follicles and create KP bumps without stripping the skin of its natural oils which would exacerbate the keratosis pilaris. These types of products should be the first step anyone takes to treat their KP, but if all else fails and you can invest in a few laser hair removal sessions to smooth the skin, the in-office treatment can help.

Below, we asked three skin care experts to share everything there is to know about this surprising solution. From how the science works and whether or not it works across all skin tones to how long results last and cost, read on for their insights.

First Things First — What is Keratosis Pilaris and What Causes it?

Keratosis pilaris is a genetic condition that affects the hair follicle: It’s characterized by the skin producing too much keratin, which then blocks the hair follicle, resulting in those signature bumps. In other words, it’s kind of like having a bunch of tiny ingrown hairs all the time. "It’s important to note that this skin condition is benign, but often bothers individuals for aesthetic reasons," notes Engelman.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work to Treat Keratosis Pilaris?

A little laser hair removal 101: The laser targets melanin in the hair follicle, converting into heat that damages the follicle and prevents future hair growth. Since keratosis pilaris affects the skin around the hair follicle, laser hair removal isn’t exactly a home run treatment for eliminating KP entirely. “[With keratosis pilaris], hair follicles are retained in the skin and cause mild inflammation,”Kirby explains. “As such, in some cases, patients that suffer from KP can see improvements in the condition after getting laser hair removal treatments.”

However, since KP can cause a lot of ingrown hairs—which make the bumps look worse—it stands to reason that eliminating that hair growth would at least help smooth things out a little, right?

"[Laser hair removal] treatments do improvekeratosispilarisby getting rid of the hair, un-trapping the hair follicle and diminishing the bumps that are caused by excessive keratin production," says Karavolas. However, he also notes the importance of tackling KP as soon as it is noticed so it can be easily treated before the skin is too rough or hardened.

What Are the Potential Cons of Getting Laser Hair Removal for KP?

As stated above, laser hair removal is thought to help KP as it stops hair growth, and therefore, decreases the coiled ingrown hairs that can lead to bumps. Many people have great results and will see fast results that last, but it's important to note that to-date there aren't any studies that prove laser hair removal can cure KP, so it may not work for everyone.

Even though laser hair removal is safe for most, there are some risks depending on a number of factors—including your skin color, hair color, and skin type. With a trained expert and the right laser set to the right parameters, Karavolas says it's safe and effective. However, some people may experience skin irritation including redness and swelling. Other side effects include pigment changes or excessive hair growth, especially for people with darker skin tones. Talk to your doctor to make sure laser hair removal is a good fit for you.

It is also important to note that laser hair removal requires multiple treatments and, depending on the size of the area treated, and it can get quite expensive. "The treatment could take anywhere from three to six sessions to see improvements, yet this depends on the person and their specific skin," says Engelman, who adds that the average cost for one session is $235.

What Happens In a Laser Hair Removal Session?

"To begin, the area to be treated is marked. Next, skin condition and skin color is analyzed. Based on that, proper parameters are selected and the area is treated with laser. Afterwards, a soothing lotion is applied," explains Karavolas. Following the session, he suggests moisturizing the area with body-care products with formulas rich in vitamins E or K. Then, one to two weeks post-session, he recommends mildly exfoliating the area to keep the hair follicle free of buildup.

The Results:

Since there aren't any studies on the long-term effects of laser hair removal for keratosis pilaris, all accounts of the treatment working are anecdotal. Some people report softer, smoother skin with noticeably less redness after just one session. However, results will vary per person and heavily depend on the settings that were used and their original skin condition.

For those it does work for, laser hair removal is unfortunately not a forever fix. "Laser hair removal is not a permanent solution to KP," says Karavolos. "However, it will improve the appearance, soften the skin and may reduce the redness or darkening of the area substantially."

If you are not quite ready to leap into laser hair removal, there are several products can help reduce the appearance of KP. Creamy moisturizers can relieve the itch of KP, while Engelman recommends moisturizers and gentle exfoliants. A great option is the CeraVe SA Lotion For Rough & Bumpy Skin ($22) as it contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to moisturize and soften skin, while the salicylic acid and lactic acid will exfoliate and smooth the bumps.