How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal: Dos and Don’ts
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help you get rid of unwanted body hair. It’s a safe and effective way to permanently reduce or eliminate the need for shaving, waxing, plucking, or other forms of hair removal. But before you go in for your laser hair removal appointment, there are some important steps you should take to ensure the best possible results. Here’s what you need to know about how to prepare for laser hair removal treatments:
Before the Treatment
Before your laser hair removal appointment, it’s important to do some preparation. This will help ensure that the treatment is as safe and effective as possible. Here are some tips on what to do before your appointment:
One Month Before
It’s recommended that you start preparing one month before your appointment. During this time, avoid using any products that can irritate your skin or interfere with the laser treatment. This includes products like retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), and benzoyl peroxide. You should also avoid sun exposure and tanning beds during this time period.
Skip the Wax – Use Razors Instead
When it comes to removing unwanted body hair before your laser treatment, it’s best to skip the waxing and opt for razors instead. Waxing removes the entire hair follicle from beneath the surface of the skin, which means there won’t be anything left for the laser to target during treatment. Shaving is a much better option because it only removes the visible part of the hair above the skin without disturbing its root below the surface. Read: Best Shaving Soaps for Sensitive Skin
Avoid Sun Exposure
It’s important to avoid sun exposure before and after your laser treatment in order to get optimal results from your procedure. The UV rays from sunlight can make your skin more sensitive and increase your risk of side effects like blistering or discoloration after treatment. If you must be out in direct sunlight, make sure you wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed areas of skin at least two weeks prior to treatment and throughout any follow-up sessions afterward.
During Treatment
Once you arrive at your appointment, there are some things you should keep in mind while undergoing laser hair removal treatments:
Wear Protective Eyewear
Your technician will provide protective eyewear that must be worn during each session in order to protect your eyes from potential damage caused by exposure to intense light beams used during treatments. Make sure not to remove these glasses until instructed by a professional technician or doctor present during each session.
Avoid Touching Treated Areas Immediately After Treatment
After each session is complete, it’s important not to touch or rub the treated areas until they have had time to heal completely (usually 24–48 hours). Doing so could cause irritation or infection if bacteria from unwashed hands gets into open pores on treated areas of skin.
Follow Post-Treatment Instructions Carefully
Your technician will provide post-treatment instructions that should be followed carefully in order for optimal results from each session with minimal risk of side effects such as blistering or discoloration due to sun exposure after treatment has been completed. These instructions may include avoiding certain activities, such as swimming or exercising, immediately following each session as well as avoiding direct sun exposure for several days afterward.
After Treatment
Once all sessions have been completed, there are still some things you should keep in mind when caring for the treated areas:
Protect Skin From Sun Exposure
It’s important, not only during but also after treatments, to protect treated areas from direct sunlight. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day is essential, even on cloudy days. Make sure that all exposed areas are covered with sunscreen when going outside.
Avoid Certain Products On Treated Areas
Certain products, such as retinoids, AHAs, and benzoyl peroxide, can irritate treated areas and interfere with results. Be sure not to use any products containing these ingredients on treated areas until instructed otherwise by a medical professional.
Follow Up With Your Technician
Be sure to follow up with the technician after all sessions have been completed according to their instructions. This will help ensure optimal results from treatments and minimize the risk of side effects such as blistering or discoloration due to sun exposure after treatments have been completed.
Note: If you’ve experienced laser damage to your skin, it’s important to take steps to repair it properly. Check out our article on “How to Repair Laser Damaged Skin” for tips and advice on how to treat your skin and promote healing. Don’t let laser damage leave you feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable in your own skin—take action today and start repairing your skin!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, laser hair removal is a safe and effective way to permanently reduce or eliminate unwanted body hair. However, it’s important to take certain steps to prepare for the treatment, such as avoiding sun exposure and products that can irritate your skin. During the treatment, it’s crucial to wear protective eyewear and avoid touching treated areas immediately after the session. After the treatment, protecting your skin from sun exposure and avoiding certain products in the treated areas is essential. It’s also important to follow up with your technician according to their instructions. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure optimal results from your laser hair removal treatments with minimal risk of side effects.
