If you’re considering laser hair removal, one of the first things you’ll want to do is figure out how to PREPARE for it.
This process can be a bit daunting, but if you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to getting the best results!
First of all, avoid sun exposure before your appointment. Sun exposure makes laser hair removal less effective and can increase the risk of side effects.
Be sure to shave the treatment area before coming in for your appointment – this will ensure that the laser targets only the hairs and not the skin.
Finally, be sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment – this will help keep your skin hydrated and reduce any potential side effects.
Read our guide to learn everything you need to know about laser hair removal, from how it works to what to expect during and after your treatment.
Pre-treatment Tips
Here are some of the things you can do to make sure you have the best possible experience with laser hair removal:
1. Avoid sun exposure
This includes using tanning beds, sunbathing, and even spending time in natural sunlight without sunscreen.
The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds can make laser hair removal less effective and increase the risk of side effects such as skin irritation.
If you must be in the sun, make sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher.
2. Shave the treatment area
You’ll need to shave the entire treatment area before your appointment.
This is because the laser targets the hair follicle, and if there’s a long hair shaft above the skin, the follicle won’t be targeted.
If you don’t shave, the laser could end up damaging the skin.
3. Drink plenty of water
It’s critical to stay hydrated before and after laser hair removal therapy. Water consumption promotes skin health and lowers the chances of side effects like irritation.
The bottom line is that if you’re considering laser hair removal, it’s important to do your research and be prepared for the treatment.
According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, most people will need 4 to 6 treatments spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart to see the best results.
4. Arrive freshly bathed
Before coming in for your laser hair removal treatment, you’ll need to make sure that your skin is clean. This means that you should take a bath or shower beforehand.
By doing this, you’ll help to remove any oils or dirt that could block the laser light from reaching the hair follicle. In addition, it’s important to exfoliate the skin before treatment.
This will help to remove any dead skin cells that could also block the laser light. If you arrive with clean and exfoliated skin, you’ll be one step closer to achieving optimal results from your treatment.
5. Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Wear clothing that won’t irritate your skin or get in the way during the treatment.
For example, if you’re having laser hair removal on your legs, wear loose-fitting shorts.
6. Remove any makeup or oils
Remove all makeup, oils, and lotions from the treatment area. These can interfere with the laser and cause side effects such as skin irritation.
Read Here: Does Numbing Cream Help With Laser Hair Removal
What To Expect During The Treatment
Laser hair removal is usually done in a series of sessions. The number of sessions you’ll need depends on the amount of hair being removed, your skin color, and the type of laser used.
Most people need between four and six sessions to see significant results. Each session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
During the treatment, you’ll wear protective eyewear to prevent the laser from damaging your eyes. The laser emits a beam of light that penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles.
This destroys the hair follicle, which prevents the hair from growing back. You may feel a slight tingling or burning sensation during the treatment, but this is normal and should go away within a few minutes.
Post-treatment Tips
After your laser hair removal treatment, there are a few things you’ll need to do to care for your skin:
1. Apply a cool compress
After any laser treatment it is important to soothe the skin. Applying a cool compress will help to reduce any redness or irritation.
It is also important to keep the area clean and dry. avoid using any harsh cleansers or scrubbing the area. Gently patting the skin dry is sufficient.
2. Avoid sun exposure
As with pre-treatment, it’s important to avoid sun exposure after your treatment. UV rays can make the skin more sensitive and increase the risk of side effects.
Studies show that sun exposure can also decrease the efficacy of laser hair removal.
3. Apply sunscreen
It is important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even if you have had laser treatment. UV exposure can cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Laser treatment can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is especially important to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when you are outdoors.
Be sure to apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including the face, neck, hands, and arms. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming.
Remember that even if you are using sunscreen, it is still important to limit your time in the sun, wear protective clothing, and seek shade when possible.
4. Avoid hot showers or baths
You should avoid hot water and sun exposure. This is because the heat can irritate the skin and make side effects worse.
Additionally, you should avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers, as these can also cause irritation. Instead, opt for gentle products that are designed for sensitive skin.
5. Avoid picking or scratching the skin
While this damage is usually minimal, it can still leave the skin vulnerable to infection. Additionally, picking or scratching at the skin can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of scarring.
For these reasons, it is important to avoid touching the skin after a laser treatment. If the area is itchy or uncomfortable, applying a cool compress can help to ease any discomfort.
6. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
Choose a cleanser that’s gentle and won’t irritate the skin. Look for one that’s fragrance-free and sulfate-free.
You should also avoid using harsh exfoliants, scrubs, or other products that can irritate the skin.
7. Apply a moisturizer
One of the most important things you can do for your skin after laser treatment is to keep it hydrated. Look for a moisturizer that’s fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to reduce the risk of irritation.
Apply it regularly, especially after cleansing, to help maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance. You may also want to consider using a humidifier, especially during the winter months, to help add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from becoming too dry.
By keeping your skin hydrated, you’ll help to reduce irritation and keep your skin looking its best.
8. Avoid shaving or waxing
You should avoid shaving or waxing the treatment area. Shaving can irritate the skin and cause side effects like redness and swelling, while waxing can actually remove the top layer of skin, increasing the risk for side effects.
9. Avoid using makeup
Makeup can irritate the skin and slow down the healing process. If you must wear makeup, choose products that are gentle and fragrance-free.
Read Here: Is Laser Hair Removal Safe For Your Face
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that can be used to remove unwanted hair.
If you’re considering laser hair removal, it’s important to prepare beforehand and follow the post-treatment care instructions to ensure the best results.
Hopefully, our guide on how to prepare for laser hair removal has been helpful. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to speak with your doctor or dermatologist.
They can help you determine if laser hair removal is right for you and provide more personalized care instructions.