6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency (2024)

June 27, 2022

6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency (1)

Getting a laser hair removal treatment is a great idea, especially if you are tired of constantly shaving and waxing. Waxing your bikini line or shaving your underarms is an inconvenience that steals you of time that could be spent doing something much more enjoyable. Beyond the time, other hair removal tasks like eliminating upper lip hair can also be quite painful. This summer, opt for a more permanent hair removal option with laser hair removal. In recent years, more and more women are turning to laser hair removal treatments to get rid of unwanted hair once and for all. If you’re interested in these treatments, we’ve put together a list of laser hair removal prep tips to make your experience even more quick and easy!

One question for many who are new to these treatments is “how does laser hair removal work in the first place?” The hair is removed with the aid of a laser that emits specific wavelengths that target the pigments found in the root of the hair follicles. The follicles absorb the light which enables the lasers to destroy the hair follicles without causing any damage to the surface of the skin.

To get the best out of the treatments here is how to prepare for laser hair removal:

1. Stop Plucking and Waxing

One of the best ways to prepare for hair removal treatment is to cease all forms of plucking and waxing. As laser hair removal works by seeking out the roots of the hair, it is important to leave the areas to be treated alone for at least four to six weeks before the first appointment. Shaving is not a mortal sin and is encouraged as it does not affect the root of the hair. It is important to adhere to the ‘no plucking six weeks before your next appointment’ rule to get the best results.

2. Shave the Area

As previously mentioned, shaving the area is encouraged as long as no plucking or waxing is going on. A shave 24 to 48 hours before the appointed date is important. While the hair root is invisible, the laser can seek it out within the pigment. By shaving, you reduce the chances of burns with the hair being below the skin’s surface.

3. Avoid Sun Exposure

What to do before laser hair removal—avoid the sun for at least two weeks before the laser hair removal procedure. Keeping the affected areas out of the sun also includes avoiding tanning beds and self-tanners. They can result in skin discoloration after the laser treatment. In addition, sunburn can lead to excessive pain and blistering.

4. Put Down the Bleach

As you now know, laser treatments seek out the root of the hairs. Your hair pigment or color can be found in the root and it absorbs the lights produced by the laser. This is how the hair is permanently destroyed. With bleached hair, the pigment is altered and it becomes increasingly difficult to target the hairs. Before any laser hair removal treatment, it is important to stop bleaching. This is enough time for the hair roots to grow back to their original color, making it easier for the laser to do its job easily and efficiently.

5. Check Your Medication

Before going under the laser, so to speak, you must speak up about all the medications you are taking. This includes all oral and topical medications. Some medications can affect your laser treatment and make them less effective. Other forms of medication can make the skin sensitive and more likely to burn and blister. Important medications that must be mentioned include antibiotics, birth control, acne, and photosensitizing medications. Depending on the medication, it is not a must that you stop taking them. However, the knowledge will have the laser professional adjust your treatment and proceed with added caution. Apart from medications you are already taking, you should also divulge any new medication you take at your next appointment.

6. Remove Makeup or Creams

When it comes to laser treatments, makeup and creams are a big no on the day of the treatment. This is because the ingredients contained in those beauty products can affect the result of laser hair removal procedures. All makeup and cream products must be removed from the area being treated. Instead, you cannot go wrong with soap and water to clean the area to be treated.

Conclusion

When it comes to getting rid of unwanted hair, laser hair removal treatments are the best way to go. As a more permanent solution, it ensures that you don’t have to constantly deal with invading and unwanted hair follicles. By following the tips outlined above before going for a laser hair removal treatment, you’ll help ensure that you have a great experience and get the best possible results. For more information or if you have any other questions, please contact The Skin Agency at (818) 308-7394.

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6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency (2024)

FAQs

6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency? ›

Any treatment areas should be shaved completely prior to treatment. Legs should be shaved around 24 hours prior to your appointment to avoid irritation. Do not wax, tweeze, epilate or use chemical depilatories for two weeks before treatment, or at all in between laser treatments.

What should I do before laser hair removal? ›

What to do before laser hair removal
  1. Consider your medical history. Before getting a laser hair removal treatment, it's essential to assess your medical history. ...
  2. Limit sun exposure. ...
  3. Don't wax or tweeze the treatment area. ...
  4. Shave the treatment area. ...
  5. Stop bleaching your hair. ...
  6. Arrive with a clean skin. ...
  7. Wear loose clothing.
Feb 15, 2023

How do I prepare my body for laser hair removal? ›

Any treatment areas should be shaved completely prior to treatment. Legs should be shaved around 24 hours prior to your appointment to avoid irritation. Do not wax, tweeze, epilate or use chemical depilatories for two weeks before treatment, or at all in between laser treatments.

How do I prepare for a laser removal appointment? ›

Do not use any cream, oil, sunscreen, deodorant, or makeup. If you really aren't able to avoid these products, ask for a wipe once you arrive so that you can clean off your skin before treatment. You will also have to stop using self-tanning treatments for two weeks before your appointment.

What should I do before laser skin? ›

How should I prepare for laser skin resurfacing?
  1. Avoid tanning or heavy sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily for four weeks before to treatment.
  2. Avoid deep facial peel procedures for four weeks before treatment (for example, strong chemical peels, laser resurfacing, dermabrasion).

Can I shave 2 hours before laser hair removal? ›

Shave Before Treatment

You should shave within 24 hours of your scheduled laser appointment. Your laser technician cannot treat areas that have hair above the skin. You cannot even receive treatment if there is rough stubble because this may create too much heat for the pigment of your skin.

What are the negatives of laser hair removal? ›

Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include graying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, particularly on darker skin.

How to shave a Brazilian area for laser? ›

Skin on your bikini area is more sensitive so you should shave gently. Shave in the direction of the hair growth first, and then you can go against the hair growth direction for a closer shave. Make sure to use special creams such as Harley Sooth (post-laser treatment balm) to eliminate the irritation.

Do I tip for laser hair removal? ›

Tipping for laser hair removal is not mandatory, but it is generally appreciated. Some sources suggest tipping after each visit, while others say it's okay to tip at the end of a series of treatments.

How do I get the best results from laser? ›

Our top tips
  1. Lightly shave 24 hours before your session is due. ...
  2. Remove all excess hair above the skin. ...
  3. Don't apply any products to your skin. ...
  4. Remove all traces of fake tan. ...
  5. Wear loose cotton clothing if having body areas treated. ...
  6. 100% Cotton underwear only. ...
  7. Leave shorter timeframes for your face.
Mar 27, 2020

What are the dos and don'ts for laser? ›

Your skin will be ultra-sensitive to UV rays so avoid sunbeds or natural tanning for at least two weeks after your laser treatment. If you're itchy after laser hair removal please refrain from scratching as it will irritate the skin further. Exfoliate – this is a great way to help speed up shedding of your hair.

What will I notice after my first laser session? ›

You should see immediate results based on the color and thickness of your hair, the area treated, the type of laser, and the color of your skin. Regardless of these variations, you should notice a 10-25% reduction of hair after the first treatment. Expect no downtime after your first treatment.

How to prepare for the first laser hair removal session? ›

Here's what you need to do before you can experience the joys of permanent hair reduction.
  1. Stop plucking and waxing. ...
  2. Shave 24-48 hours before treatment. ...
  3. Refrain from tanning. ...
  4. Use caution with certain medications.
Oct 2, 2015

What should I apply immediately after laser? ›

And here's what to do after your treatment and between sessions:
  • Do apply an ice-pack on the treated area to reduce pain, discomfort or irritation.
  • Do apply aloe vera gel or calming creams for 3 days after the treatment.
  • Do wear loose clothes to avoid friction on the treated area for 48 hours.

What should I put on my skin before laser hair removal? ›

It's the root of the hair the laser targets, so the root must be present for your treatment to work best. Take a shower right before your appointment and clean the treatment area, making sure to remove dirt and oil from the skin. Avoid using any skincare products (including moisturizer) after you cleanse.

How to make laser hair removal more effective? ›

Our top tips
  1. Lightly shave 24 hours before your session is due. ...
  2. Remove all excess hair above the skin. ...
  3. Don't apply any products to your skin. ...
  4. Remove all traces of fake tan. ...
  5. Wear loose cotton clothing if having body areas treated. ...
  6. 100% Cotton underwear only. ...
  7. Leave shorter timeframes for your face.
Mar 27, 2020

Should I moisturize before laser hair removal? ›

Avoid lotions, oils, and deodorants prior to treatment. Arrive to your appointment with clean, dry skin. Moisturizers, creams, lotions, or oils can prevent the laser from accessing the root, as can sweat or other debris. If you are treating your underarms, avoid wearing deodorant until after your appointment.

What not to take before laser hair removal? ›

“Before to laser hair removal, one should avoid taking some vitamins, herbal supplements, blood thinners, antibiotics, Accutane, and Retin-A.” It is crucial to let your doctor know about any medications or dietary supplements you are taking if you intend to undergo laser hair removal.

Should I scrub before laser hair removal? ›

It's best to exfoliate the treatment area about 1-2 days prior to your scheduled laser hair removal session. Exfoliating right before the appointment may irritate the skin and cause sensitivity. Doing it too far in advance can allow dead skin to build up again.

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