The Wheal "TikTok Show"

What are wheals and how do they develop?

A medical report based on some TikTok posts without any professional substance or knowledge.

How does it work? 

They are looking for a girl who reads a script and has absolutely no idea about hair removal and medical procedures. Wiggle your body a little, smile a little, and you have a video that is supposed to scare others.

Of course, the professional beauticians laugh about it,
but all startups are deterred by it.

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

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

Histamine Release: 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 wheals.

Thermal Reaction: 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 wheals.

Mechanical Irritation: The application of the laser and the associated manipulation of the skin can cause mechanical stimuli that trigger an inflammatory response.

Are wheals primary indicators of a successful treatment?

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

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

Sustainability of Results: Long-term success is demonstrated by the sustained reduction in 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 for wheals:

Wheals can also be caused by other factors that are not directly related to the laser treatment:

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

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

Improper Application of the Laser: Incorrect laser settings or improper application can lead to an excessive thermal reaction that causes wheals.

Conclusion:

Wheals are a possible side effect of laser hair removal, but they are not a sign of the treatment's success. They usually result from the release of histamine and a local inflammatory reaction of the skin. Successful laser hair removal is characterized by the effective and sustained reduction of hair growth and by minimal invasive side effects.

For a detailed scientific review and evidence-based information, you can consult specialist 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 offer comprehensive information on laser hair removal and the associated skin reactions.