What To Do Before Laser Hair Removal

Sep 24

Imagine ditching your razor or waving goodbye to monthly waxing while still enjoying silky-smooth skin. This can be your reality with laser hair removal. It offers long-term solutions for unwanted hair on the face and body with minimal maintenance required.

But you’ll need to know what to do before laser hair removal, especially if it’s your first session. Today, we’re discussing the benefits of laser as a hair removal method, how long the results really last, and how to prep your skin for treatment.

Learn about the laser hair removal process

Whether you’re looking for permanent hair reduction for your bikini line, an alternative to your monthly Brazilian wax, or to finally zap those pesky hairs on your chin once and for all, laser hair removal can do it.

Have we piqued your interest? We thought that might happen! Here’s a closer look at the laser hair removal process:

How does laser hair removal work?

Devices like the Cervello diode laser utilize a range of wavelengths to effectively remove hair from people with all skin tones and types. These lasers send light energy into the skin, ultimately destroying hair follicles. The gentle heat kills each hair at the root, while double-cooling technology ensures a comfortable experience.

What are the benefits of laser hair removal?

You’ll find a whole lot to love about this hair removal method. Firstly, it’s a low-maintenance treatment with long-term results. It’s also fast, safe, and highly effective.

Plus, modern devices are more powerful than their predecessors, so you can enjoy smooth skin in fewer sessions. Side effects are mild and include redness and swelling that often subside on their own within a few hours.

What results can you expect from laser hair removal?

While not entirely permanent, laser hair removal can definitely be a semi-permanent solution for unwanted hair growth. In fact, the results can last years with occasional touch-up appointments. However, it’s important to note that new hair follicles can appear over time, and hormonal changes can cause regrowth even after laser treatment.

As the treatment area begins to heal, you might notice some shedding. That’s your body eliminating those dead roots that were zapped during treatment. Gently exfoliate your skin to facilitate the process.

What to do before your laser hair removal session

You’ll need to treat your skin with a little TLC as you prepare for laser hair removal. Here are our top tips:

Stop waxing and plucking hair

Laser devices work by targeting individual hair follicles beneath the skin. However, they must be able to differentiate between hair and skin, meaning the root must be present. So, tweezing, plucking, and waxing are strictly off-limits for at least four weeks before your appointment.

Don’t bleach or lighten hair

For the best results, you’ll want the greatest contrast possible between your hair and skin. After all, lasers identify and seek out melanin, which is why traditional devices work well for people with light skin and dark hair.

Modern technology has bridged this gap so people with most skin tones can see effective results. However, avoiding bleach will only work in your favor.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure

Avoid prolonged sun exposure so you don’t inadvertently diminish the results of laser treatment. Sun exposure can also increase the risk of burns, pain, and other side effects experienced during treatment.

Check on your medications

Certain prescription medications like Accutane increase photosensitivity. In other words, your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays. Additionally, remedies with blood-thinning properties, such as aspirin and anti-inflammatories, can affect your response to laser treatments.

Before scheduling your first appointment, be sure to chat with your doctor and your laser hair removal specialist to ensure your meds won’t interfere with a safe and effective session.

Shave the area the day of your treatment

On the day of your appointment, you’ll want to shave the hair in the treatment area. Shaving for laser hair removal will ensure that the light energy emitted from the device is concentrated on the roots instead of distributed throughout the shafts.

Tips for laser hair removal aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for your health and comfort following laser hair removal. Here are a few ways to care for your skin after treatment:

Apply cold compresses

Redness, itching, and swelling are common after laser therapy, but you’ll want to soothe the treatment area without introducing products that may irritate your skin. A cool compress is a risk-free way to calm inflammation quickly.

Wear sunscreen

A broad-spectrum sunscreen will be your best friend in the days following treatment. Even if you plan to stay indoors, it’s essential to protect your tender skin as it recovers.

Avoid harsh skincare products

You’ll need to hold off on topicals with harsh active ingredients like retinols, exfoliants, and acids until your skin is completely healed. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser and fragrance-free moisturizer.

Use cool or lukewarm water when bathing

Hot water will only make inflammation worse after laser hair removal. It can also increase the risk of complications like infection. In the days following treatment, stick with cool water to soothe your skin and encourage optimal healing.

Explore laser hair removal options at The Wax Room!

Looking for a long-term solution for unwanted hair growth on any body part from your legs to your upper lip? You’re in the right place! At The Wax Room, we offer laser hair removal to meet your every need.

Mckenze Trachuk