What To Do Before And After Laser Hair Removal

What To Do Before And After Laser Hair Removal

For unwanted body hair, laser hair removal is one of the most popular and painless cosmetic treatments today. It is a good option for those looking for a non-invasive way to remove or reduce unwanted body hair. With proper preparation and post-treatment care results of laser hair removal, treatment can last for years.

Here are some recommendations on what to do before and after laser hair removal treatment to maximize your results, and limit some unwanted side effects.

What to do before laser hair removal?

Consult a dermatologist 

Just like for any other treatment, you must consult a dermatologist before committing to a treatment. It is important to understand and weigh the risks and benefits for your skin type. If possible, go for an in-person consultation and ask as many questions as possible. Get to know how the treatment works, discuss your expectations and know what is the best possible outcome for you. If you do decide to go through with laser hair removal, do follow your doctor’s advice.

If you are on any medication such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory/ antibiotics, please disclose the information to your dermatologist.

Stop other hair removal methods

For your laser treatment to be successful avoid removing body hair about 4 to 6 weeks prior to the treatment. Especially waxing, plucking, tweezing, and threading as the laser treatment targets the roots of the hair.

Avoid sun exposure

For some, tanned skin is desirable however, it is best to steer clear from the sun even with sunscreen for a few weeks before the treatment. This will help you achieve a better outcome.  Exposure to UV rays can cause white spots (hypopigmentation). Avoid spray tans or other tanning products and tanning beds before your treatment.

Avoid skin care products

Skincare products usually have chemicals such as retinoid, AHA or salicylic acid etc. It is best to avoid using skincare products, chemical peels, and skin bleach.

It is best to arrive for the treatment with bare skin. Avoid lotions and body serums and especially deodorants as they tend to interfere with the laser treatment.

Shave the day before your treatment

As mentioned earlier, the laser targets the root of the hair. 24 hours before your appointment, you may shave the area to be treated as shaving removes hair but keeps the root intact.

What to do after laser hair removal?

• It is essential to restore the skin post-treatment. Applying restorative gels recommended by your doctor every day is a must. 

• Take lukewarm showers for the first few weeks and avoid tight clothing.

• Avoid sun exposure a few days after the treatment. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen outdoors as well as indoors.

• Redness and swelling are normal post-treatment and will reduce with time. It is best to avoid using makeup or any other beauty products for a few days till the redness decreases. If the skin is not restored or shows signs of inflammation visit your doctor.

• A week after the treatment, start exfoliating 2-3 times a week. Exfoliation reduces the chances of ingrowth and helps you shed hair in treated areas.

• Two to three weeks after the treatment you may resume using makeup and other beauty products. However, carefully observe your skin, if you notice any rashes, it is best to visit your doctor. 

• Depending on your hair regrowth you might need 2 to 6 follow-up sessions for laser hair removal treatment. Typically, you notice hair growth post 4-6 weeks of the treatment. It is advisable to not miss your follow-up sessions to maximize the outcome of your treatment. For more information about the best laser hair removal in Bangalore, contact us to consult Dr. Divya Sharma.