I often get small, round, often painful lumps that get red

Question:
I often get small, round, often painful lumps that get red, sometime with pus, in my bikini region. I would like laser hair removal in that same area. What are these bumps and can I get the laser hair treatment even if I have them?

Answer:
The bumps that you are referring to are either a form of folliculitis or a skin fungal disease, tinea barber. These bumps frequently occur in areas where shaving or waxing has occurred or where irritation of the hair follicle is going on. I can see no reason why you would not be able to proceed with laser hair removal treatments even when these bumps are present. I would definitely proceed with caution, and to be certain, I would have the area examined prior to treatment and commence either topical or oral treatment for any active infection that your physician, nurse, or PA has detected.

Posted by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld