Can You Get Laser Hair Removal On Your Period?
Many women seek out laser hair removal as a long-term solution to unwanted body hair. However, fitting a series of treatments into your busy schedule can be tricky enough, and having to schedule around your period makes it even more difficult.
Fortunately, you may not need to avoid laser treatments during that time of the month! Some minor adjustments might make your session more comfortable, though.
Join us to learn everything you need to know about how your period can affect the laser process!
How does your period affect the laser hair removal process?
It turns out that it’s completely safe and effective to undergo laser hair removal during your period. But here are a few differences you may notice when compared to laser sessions during other times in your menstrual cycle.
Your pain tolerance might be lower
Hormonal changes can influence the way your brain interprets pain signals. Estrogen levels peak around the time you ovulate and can dull uncomfortable sensations. On the other hand, pain is often amplified in the days leading up to–and including–your period.
Remember, laser treatments target and destroy your hair follicles, so you should expect some inflammation and discomfort no matter where you are in your cycle.
Of course, each body is unique, so these differences may be imperceptible to some.
More laser sessions will be necessary
Those same hormones that affect pain tolerance levels also play a role in thickening and strengthening hair. While some studies suggest that you’ll get better results during the early phase of your cycle, other research has shown no correlation.
Your hair growth cycle will also influence the timing and number of sessions you’ll need, as well. In fact, many different factors affect the efficacy of this hair removal method, so it’s hard to distinguish between correlation and causation.
Once again, these results may come down to each individual’s response to treatment.
Healing will be slower
You already know that hormones can cause increased pain, but they may also impact your body’s ability to recover from laser hair removal treatments. You might find that inflammation and irritation last longer after sessions during your period than at other times.
If lasering a sensitive area, you may want to reschedule
Plenty of women find that laser appointments during their period aren’t much different from those at different points in their cycle. For many, the side effects don’t change much from one phase to another.
However, if you’re already prone to painful periods, you might want to avoid additional discomfort, especially if you’re treating your bikini line, pubic area, or other sensitive treatment areas.
Let your laser technician know ahead of time
There’s absolutely no reason to be embarrassed about getting your period. Professional hair removal experts have seen it all and understand the complexities of our bodies. In fact, many have been in your shoes at some point! As long as you practice good personal hygiene and wear a tampon or menstrual cup, your esthetician shouldn’t have an issue treating you.
But it’s important to inform your treatment specialist that you’re on your period so they can make your session as comfortable as possible. For example, they may be able to apply a numbing cream to help manage your pain levels.
In any case, the more information they have about your situation, the better.
Managing discomfort during your laser hair removal treatment
Permanent hair reduction comes at a cost, and sometimes, that price is physical discomfort. However, there are a few things you can do to minimize pain.
Drink plenty of water
Remember how we mentioned that lower estrogen levels are linked with increased pain levels? Well, that’s because the hormone works to keep your skin plump and taut. When you’re on your period, your skin may be more lax and deflated, leading to increased pain when hit with a high-beam laser.
Hormonally, there’s not much you can do about that, but adequate hydration can help you combat this side effect! Be sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment and avoid alcohol to ensure your cells are well-hydrated.
Take a painkiller
While you need to avoid certain medications before your laser hair removal session, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, other painkillers can help reduce discomfort and make the process more pleasant. Consider taking a dose of Tylenol (acetaminophen) 30 to 45 minutes before your appointment to dull any uncomfortable sensations.
Follow your professional’s pre and post-care instructions
Your treatment specialist will likely give you a set of aftercare instructions to follow after your session. It’s essential to adhere to this guide to get the best results from this cosmetic procedure.
For example, shaving a few days after treatment is completely fine, but hair removal creams can significantly impact the efficacy of your next session. As always, your esthetician will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have, even if you’ve already left the treatment room.
The Wax Room is here to maximize your comfort!
The Wax Room is Surprise, Arizona’s, premier hair removal studio! We offer a range of treatment solutions to help our clients get silky-smooth skin without any unnecessary discomfort.
Contact us or schedule an appointment to begin your journey today!