Shaving between laser hair removal sessions? - Brigstock Skin & Laser (2024)

FAQs

What happens if I shave between laser appointments? ›

In fact, shaving is often recommended between sessions, as it allows the laser to target the hair follicle more precisely. When you shave, you remove the visible hair from the surface of the skin, but it does not affect the hair follicle or the root, which is the target of laser treatment.

Most patients can have laser hair removal once every 4 to 6 weeks. Your dermatologist will tell you when it is safe to have another treatment. Most patients see some hair regrowth.

Shaving between IPL treatments is a great way to manage hair regrowth and keep unwanted hair to a minimum between and after IPL treatments. This is much more beneficial than plucking or waxing which would instead have a negative impact on the overall results.

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.

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.

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.

Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal

It's completely normal to experience some skin irritation right after each laser hair removal session. Depending on your skin's sensitivity, you may experience some residual itchiness, discomfort similar to razor burn, and skin redness that may persist for the next 24 hours.

When using IPL, you'll need to shave less and less as your treatments go on. As the hair follicles will be empty, you'll notice fewer ingrown hairs and less stubble 'shadow'.

“The key difference between IPL and Laser is the type of light. Laser light is monochromatic, non-divergent and targets very specific concerns. IPL produces a broadband spectrum of white light, producing a mixture of many different colours.

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.

If you forget to shave, the effectiveness of your treatment may diminish. The laser, instead of focusing on the follicles, might target surface hair.

If you forget to shave, the effectiveness of your treatment may diminish. The laser, instead of focusing on the follicles, might target surface hair. This can lead to heightened discomfort, potential stinging, and a risk of burns. Surface impurities like dirt and oil can also reduce efficacy.

If you finish your series of treatments and don't wait too long between hair removal sessions, you can expect long-lasting hair reduction results. However, if you wait too long between treatments, hair follicles can be too long and won't sustain enough damage with light energy to stop growing hair.

Dry shaving on the day may leave your skin with dryness, irritation and prolonged redness. If you cut yourself and the skin is open, bleeding or compromised your practitioner would not be able to laser over it.

For facial hair, treatments are typically spaced 4-5 weeks apart, while body hair treatments are generally scheduled 5-6 weeks apart. If you treat the area in every 2 weeks, you are simply treating too soon and essentially just shooting heat against the skin, but not destroying anything.