What Should I Avoid Before and After Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Laser hair removal has become increasingly popular as a long-lasting solution for unwanted hair. However, to ensure the best results and minimize any potential side effects, it’s important to know what to avoid before and after your laser hair removal treatment. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the do’s and don’ts to help you prepare for and recover from your laser hair removal sessions.

Before Laser Hair Removal

Before you undergo laser hair removal treatment, there are a few key steps you should take to ensure optimal results and minimize any potential risks. Let’s explore what you should avoid prior to your treatment:

Fake Tan

If you’re a fan of self-tanning products or spray tans, it’s crucial to avoid using them at least two weeks before your laser hair removal session. Fake tan can interfere with the laser’s ability to target the hair follicles accurately, potentially leading to blistering. To ensure the best outcome, exfoliate the treatment area daily in the days leading up to your session to remove any residue from the fake tan.

Shaving Too Close to Your Appointment

Shaving is an essential step before laser hair removal as it allows the laser to target the hair follicles directly. However, it’s important not to shave your treatment area too close to your appointment. Shaving the night before your session is ideal to prevent any skin irritation or rawness caused by a razor.

Certain Medications

Some medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to light, making laser hair removal treatment more risky. Antibiotics, in particular, are known to cause photosensitivity. It’s best to wait until you have finished your course of antibiotics and have been off the medication for at least seven days before undergoing laser hair removal. Additionally, certain acne treatments like Accutane can also make your skin more sensitive, so be sure to inform your laser technician about any medications you are taking.

Some Pain Killers

While it’s common to experience mild discomfort during laser hair removal, taking painkillers before your session is perfectly fine. However, it’s best to opt for paracetamol instead of ibuprofen or aspirin, as these can react to the laser light and potentially cause adverse effects.

During Laser Hair Removal

During your laser hair removal session, your technician will guide you through the process and ensure your comfort. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind during the treatment itself:

Comfortable Clothing

Wearing loose-fitting clothing to your laser hair removal appointment is recommended to prevent any rubbing or irritation on the treated area. Tight clothing can cause friction and discomfort, so opt for loose garments to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.

Protective Eyewear

During the laser hair removal treatment, both you and your technician will wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser’s light. While you may still see flashes of light, rest assured that your eyes are protected throughout the procedure.

Numbing Cream

If you have concerns about pain during the treatment, your technician may apply a numbing cream to the treatment area to help alleviate any discomfort. This can make the laser hair removal process more tolerable for individuals with lower pain thresholds.

After Laser Hair Removal

After your laser hair removal session, it’s important to take proper care of your skin to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize any potential side effects. Here are some key steps to follow after your treatment:

Redness and Sensitivity

It’s common to experience redness and sensitivity in the treated area immediately after your laser hair removal session. This is a normal reaction and should subside within 24 hours. To soothe your skin, you can apply aloe vera gel or a topical cooling cream recommended by your technician.

Loose Clothing and Cool Showers

To avoid further irritation, it’s advisable to wear loose clothing for at least a day after your laser hair removal treatment. Tight clothing can rub against the treated area and cause discomfort. Additionally, hot baths and showers should be avoided, as the heat can exacerbate sensitivity. Instead, take cool showers to help calm your skin.

Avoid Sun Exposure

Protecting your skin from sun exposure is crucial after laser hair removal. UV rays can increase the risk of complications and hinder the healing process. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least a week following your treatment. If you need to be outside, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the treated area and reapply regularly.

Avoid Waxing and Plucking

To achieve optimal results from laser hair removal, it’s important to avoid any hair removal methods that remove the hair from the root, such as waxing or plucking, between your laser sessions. These methods can disrupt the hair follicles and make it harder for the laser to target them effectively. Instead, stick to shaving as the preferred method of hair removal in between treatments.

Between Laser Hair Removal Sessions

Between your laser hair removal sessions, there are a few additional steps to take to ensure the best possible outcome:

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure should be minimized as much as possible during your laser hair removal treatment series. UV rays can make your skin more sensitive and increase the risk of complications. If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply a high SPF sunscreen to the treated area every three hours and seek shade whenever possible.

Waxing and Plucking

As mentioned earlier, waxing and plucking should be avoided throughout your laser hair removal treatment series. These methods remove the hair from the root, which is essential for the laser to target the hair follicles effectively. Stick to shaving or trimming the hair between sessions to ensure optimal results.

Sunbeds and Tanning

In addition to avoiding natural sun exposure, it’s crucial to steer clear of sunbeds and tanning beds. These artificial methods of tanning can cause complications during your laser hair removal sessions and lead to blistering. It’s best to wait until after your treatment series is complete before considering any form of artificial tanning.

Consult a Professional for Laser Hair Removal

By following these do’s and don’ts before and after your laser hair removal sessions, you’ll be well-prepared and on your way to achieving the best possible results. Remember to communicate any concerns or questions with your laser technician, who will guide you through the process and ensure your comfort and safety.

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of laser hair removal, contact Spa MD today to schedule your laser hair removal consultation and start your journey towards smooth, hair-free skin. Don’t wait – book your appointment now and say goodbye to unwanted hair for good!