Laser hair removal is a popular aesthetic treatment that offers long-term hair removal results from as little as one treatment session. But to get the most out of your laser hair removal it is important to fully prepare beforehand, and ensure you have a suitable post-treatment plan in place. Following the correct pre- and post-care advice can help you look after your skin, reduce side effects, and ensure longer-lasting hair removal.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about laser hair removal prep and the post-treatment care required for optimal laser hair removal results. We will discuss what to do before your appointment, how to take care of your skin after treatment, and some things that are best to avoid – all of which will enhance your experience and your results.
Pre-Laser Hair Removal Care
Following these simple pre-care tips before your treatment will help ensure a more successful, skin-safe laser hair removal experience:
Understanding the Process and Expectations
Understanding how laser hair removal works and what you can expect from the treatment is important when preparing before your session. Laser hair removal involves using a concentrated beam of light to target hair follicles, inhibiting their ability to grow back. It is normal for multiple sessions to be required for optimal results due to the different hair growth cycles.
Each area of the body is different and will have a different density of hair, hair thickness, and hair colour. This means it is very difficult to give a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the requirements for laser hair removal treatment. The best way to find out an estimate for the number of treatments you will require for a certain body area is to ask a laser technician directly!
Our expert practitioners are always on hand, book a consultation today to find out more about laser hair removal.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Sun exposure can make your skin more sensitive and prone to complications during laser hair removal treatment. It’s important to avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and sunless tanning products for at least weeks prior to your appointment.
If sun exposure is unavoidable, ensure you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin. The risk of hyperpigmentation and even burns or scarring can increase as a result.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Before Treatment
Avoid smoking and alcohol the night before treatment and on the day of treatment.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can both cause dehydration. Dehydration makes your skin more sensitive and increases the risk of side effects from laser hair removal treatment. It’s best to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after treatment.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drink at least 1 litre of water both the day before and the day of treatment.
Staying fully hydrated helps to regulate your body temperature during the treatment process.
Shave the Treatment Area
Shaving the treatment area at least 12 hours before your laser hair removal session is recommended for the best results. Shaving ensures that the laser energy is focused on the hair follicles rather than targeting the hair above the skin’s surface.
Avoid waxing, plucking, or using hair removal creams in the weeks leading up to the treatment, as these methods remove the hair follicles that the laser needs to target.
Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes
Wearing loose-fitting clothes on the day of treatment will help you feel more comfortable during the treatment. It will also minimise the risk of clothing rubbing or irritating the skin.
Clean Skin Thoroughly
Make sure you arrive for your appointment with clean and dry skin. You should avoid makeup, oils, lotions, and deodorants as these can all interfere with the laser, making treatment less effective.
Arrive Early for Your Appointment
We recommend that you arrive at least 15 minutes early for your appointment so that you have time to fill out any necessary paperwork and ask any questions that you may have. Allowing extra time will also ensure you are relaxed and comfortable before treatment.
Communicate with Your Laser Technician
Some medical conditions and medications can make you more sensitive to light, which can increase the risk of adverse reactions. It’s therefore vital to inform your practitioner about any active skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, as well as any medications you are taking.
Post-Care
Once your treatment is complete, following the correct post-care advice helps to ensure optimal results and avoid any adverse reactions. Here are our top tips for caring for your skin after your treatment session:
Immediately after the Treatment
Applying Soothing Creams or Gels
Your skin may feel sensitive or slightly irritated after the treatment. Applying a soothing cream or gel recommended by your practitioner can help alleviate any discomfort and reduce redness. Look for products that contain aloe vera or other calming ingredients to promote skin healing.
Avoiding Hot Baths or Showers
Avoid hot baths, showers, or saunas immediately after laser hair removal treatment. The heat can exacerbate skin sensitivity and increase the risk of irritation. Stick to lukewarm water and gentle cleansing to avoid any adverse reactions.
Avoiding Excessive Sweating and Physical Activity
Sweating and intense physical activity can cause irritation and potentially compromise the treated area. It’s advisable to avoid activities that cause excessive sweating for at least 24 to 48 hours after the treatment. Opt for light exercises or activities that won’t induce heavy sweating during this time.
Long-term Aftercare For Laser Hair Removal
Protecting the Treated Area from Sun Exposure
Sun protection is crucial for maintaining the health of your skin post-laser hair removal. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause hyperpigmentation and skin damage. Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to the treated area whenever it’s exposed to sunlight. Consider wearing protective clothing, such as hats or cover-ups, to further shield the area from the sun’s rays.
Avoiding Plucking, Waxing, or Electrolysis
While you may notice some hair regrowth after laser hair removal treatment, it’s important to avoid plucking, waxing, or electrolysis in between sessions. These methods remove the hair follicles that the laser targets, interfering with the effectiveness of future treatments. Instead, opt for shaving to maintain the desired appearance until your next session.
Using Gentle Cleansers and Moisturisers
Opt for gentle cleansers and moisturisers specifically formulated for sensitive skin to avoid any further irritation. Harsh or abrasive products can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier and lead to dryness or redness. Look for fragrance-free and non-comedogenic options to keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals or Exfoliants
Refrain from using harsh chemicals, exfoliating scrubs, or peels on the treated area for at least one week after laser hair removal. These products can irritate the skin and potentially cause adverse reactions. Instead, stick to gentle exfoliation methods recommended by your practitioner, if necessary, after the initial recovery period.
Staying Hydrated and Maintaining a Healthy Diet
Drinking an adequate amount of water and maintaining a balanced diet can contribute to healthy hair growth and overall skin health. Staying hydrated supports the body’s natural processes, including hair follicle health. Eating healthy foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients can also help to promote optimal hair growth and skin regeneration.
Patience with Hair Regrowth Cycles
Laser hair removal requires multiple sessions to achieve long-lasting results. It’s important to be patient with the hair regrowth cycles between sessions. You may notice some regrowth during this time, but it should become thinner and lighter over time. Trust the process and follow the recommended treatment schedule to achieve the desired outcome
Avoid Touching or Rubbing the Treatment Area
Touching or rubbing the treatment area can cause irritation and even lead to infection. It’s important to avoid touching the area with your hands or anything else. If the treatment area does become irritated, you can apply a cool compress to help soothe the skin.
Wear Loose Clothing
Anything that will cause friction or rub against the skin should be avoided. Tight clothing, underwear, and sportswear can all cause irritation, so we advise wearing loose-fitting clothing for at least 48 hours after treatment.
Keep the Area Clean
You must keep the treatment area clean to avoid infection. We recommend showering as normal and gently patting the skin dry with a soft towel. Avoid using harsh soaps or exfoliating products to minimise irritation.
Adverse Reactions
Laser hair removal is generally a safe and effective treatment with minimal side effects. However, there are a few potential adverse reactions that you should be aware of.
It’s normal to experience some redness, swelling, and tenderness in the treatment area immediately after laser hair removal. This usually subsides within a few hours but can last for up to two days. If you experience any pain, you can take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen.
You may also experience some slight bruising, which should resolve itself within a week.
Conclusion
Following the right pre and post-treatment care can help to significantly improve results from your treatment and ensure longer-lasting results. It’s important to remember however that laser treatment is a medical procedure and should be treated as such.
Our practitioners are always on hand to offer their expert advice on laser hair removal and any other of our treatments. If you have any questions about laser hair removal or would like to book a consultation to find out more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a Light Touch Clinic expert. We’d be more than happy to help, and our qualified team can advise you on the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
