How to prepare for laser hair removal (2024)

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So, you’ve decided to ditch the razor and pursue laser hair removal to tackle your fuzz. You’ll love the feeling of bare skin in areas that you didn’t even know could be so smooth.Overall, this method of hair removal is simple and requires minimal effort on your part, but there are some basic steps you should follow in preparation. Here’s what you need to do before you can experience the joys of permanent hair reduction.

Stop plucking and waxing
Once you decide to go with laser hair removal, it’s important to stop any other hair removal method that takes out hair at the root. Even just touching up stray hairs in between sessions could interfere with the hair growth cycle needed for an effective treatment. Laser hair removal works by destroying hair follicles below the skin’s surface, so by removing them beforehand, there’s nothing for the laser to target. Instead, opt for shaving in between sessions to keep hair out of sight, yet still visible to the laser.

Shave 24-48 hours before treatment
One of the best parts about laser hair removal is that it doesn’t require visible hair growth in the treatment area. You can continue to shave in between sessions, and that’s something that can’t be done when you’re waxing. Within 24 hours of your session, you should be sure to shave the area, as this will leave just enough hair visible to the laser. Even though it won’t be visible to you, the laser will still be able to target the follicle, and you can reduce your risk of burns by keeping hair below the skin’s surface. When hair is above it, the laser will target that as well, and that could cause you to experience discomfort.

How to prepare for laser hair removal (1)Stop all forms of tanning throughout your treatment.

Refrain from tanning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration noted that tanning can cause skin cancer, as well as eye damage, premature aging and immune system suppression. Not only is UV exposure damaging in these aspects, but it can also interfere with your laser hair removal treatment. The laser targets the pigment of your hair follicles, which means extra melanin in your skin from a tan can make it tricky to distinguish hair from skin. This is why it’s also important to stop using tanning lotions and creams in the treatment area. Anything that changes the pigment of your skin should be avoided while undergoing treatment. Fortunately, once you complete all of your sessions, you’ll have bare, smooth skin that lasts so much longer than a temporary tan.

“Tell your treatment provider if you’re taking any medications.”

Use caution with certain medications
Some medications can interfere with laser hair removal or make your skin more sensitive to treatment. This doesn’t mean you need to stop taking medication or refuse what your doctor prescribes, but it’s important to inform the medical or healthcare professional performing your laser hair removal treatment of anything you’ve recently taken. For example, antibiotics and topical products that contain Retinol and other substances can affect your session. It’s best to err on the side of caution and communicate any medications with your treatment provider, and also notify your doctor that you’re beginning hair removal treatments.

These are just some of the medications that may interfere with your treatment:

  • Birth control
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Photosensitizing medications
  • Hormone treatments
  • Acne medications.
How to prepare for laser hair removal (2024)

FAQs

How to prepare for laser hair removal? ›

Shaving and exfoliating can increase follicular activity, making the following laser treatment more effective. Another tip suggested by experts is to pay attention to hair growth during laser hair removal treatment. Some localized areas may grow more quickly than others. This is a detail to share with your provider.

How do you prep for 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 can I maximize my laser hair removal results? ›

Shaving and exfoliating can increase follicular activity, making the following laser treatment more effective. Another tip suggested by experts is to pay attention to hair growth during laser hair removal treatment. Some localized areas may grow more quickly than others. This is a detail to share with your provider.

Can I shave 1 hour before laser hair removal? ›

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.

What no one tells you about laser hair removal? ›

It does not eliminate hair, it REDUCES hair

A common misconception is that laser hair removal is a permanent solution, but the reality is that its a semi-permanent solution. You can expect up to a 90% reduction in hair growth and thickness, to the point where you won't need to shave as much.

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.

Why am I more hairy after laser? ›

No one actually knows why this happens with laser patients, but after treatment, the laser can do the opposite of what you're expecting and actually stimulate hair growth. And, if that wasn't enough, the hair can actually come back thicker and darker!

What makes laser hair removal ineffective? ›

If you saw a less than stellar result on your last treatments it could have been due to not being in the hair growth stage in the cycle during time of procedure. Hormonal imbalance while undergoing laser treatments can stimulate increased hair regrowth.

How to speed up shedding after laser hair removal? ›

Moisturise: Keep your skin hydrated with a high-quality, fragrance-free moisturiser. This makes it easier for the shedding hair to push through the skin. Avoid hair removal methods: Resist the temptation to use tweezers, wax, or other hair removal methods on the treated area.

Is stubble ok for 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 happens if you miss a spot shaving before laser? ›

If you miss a spot while shaving, the laser will still act on the hair that is above the skin's surface. This can lead to several issues. The laser may burn the longer hair, which can cause discomfort and potentially harm the skin's surface.

Can you laser over razor bumps? ›

Laser hair removal for razor bump treatment brings permanent results within two to three treatment sessions. Razor bump treatment with laser hair removal is very fast. However, the treatment time will depend on the size of the bumps and the area being treated.

Does anyone regret laser hair removal? ›

Regret usually stems from choosing the wrong provider. While laser hair removal itself is rarely regrettable, what can lead to regret is choosing the wrong provider. A cheap, inexperienced clinic may use outdated equipment or incorrect techniques, leading to less effective treatment or even unwanted side-effects.

Should I laser my pubic hair? ›

' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.

What is the disadvantage of hair laser? ›

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.

What are the pre care instructions for laser hair removal? ›

Do not wax, tweeze, or use depilatories during your series of laser hair removal. Avoid sun exposure for 4 weeks prior to treatment and use SPF 30 daily to ensure coverage against UVA and UVB rays. Do not use self-tanning products for 1-2 weeks prior and/or post treatment. least 2-3 days prior to treatment.

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

How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
  1. Stay Out of the Sun. ...
  2. Be Careful with Skin Products. ...
  3. Shave the Area. ...
  4. Don't Tweeze or Wax. ...
  5. Pick a Suitable Wardrobe. ...
  6. Arrive with Clean Skin.

What do you wish you knew before laser hair removal? ›

In the six weeks leading up to your treatment, you should avoid tweezing, waxing or plucking any unwanted hairs. At least three weeks before and following treatment, you should use extra sun protection or even avoid the sun. Doing so prepares your skin for the procedure and protects it as it heals.

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