The Best Time to Schedule Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal isn’t an undertaking to start on a whim. It takes thoughtful planning and proper skin prep to ensure a safe and effective treatment series. You’ll want to consider the weather and your own personal plans before jumping into this hair removal technique. With that in mind, let’s discuss the best time to schedule laser hair removal!
What to expect with laser hair removal
Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to destroy hair follicles and inhibit future growth. Laser machines by targeting dark hair roots within the skin. Here’s what you need to know about this semi-permanent solution:
How do you prepare for laser hair removal?
Since lasers seek out melanin in hair roots, you’ll get the best results by encouraging greater contrast between your skin and hair color. Avoid UV rays and sunless tanners to prevent darkening of the skin, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen on the treatment area at least a month in advance, as sun exposure can increase the risk of burns and discomfort.
This is also a good time to stop plucking and waxing so the hair root is in place for effective laser treatment. As your first appointment approaches, remember to stay hydrated and keep your skin moisturized. Stop using harsh exfoliants, acids, and retinols about a week prior to your treatment, and shave the area about 24 hours before your session to remove hair above the skin’s surface.
Learn more: How To Prepare for a Laser Hair Removal Session
How many treatments will you need?
On average, most people need between six and 12 laser treatments scheduled six to 12 weeks apart to achieve permanent results. However, your skin tone, hair color, and natural growth cycle will all impact the number of treatments needed.
How do you maintain results?
Laser hair removal requires occasional touch-up sessions to maintain results indefinitely. Keeping your skin healthy and moisturized can help you get the most out of your treatment.
What’s the best time of year to start laser hair removal?
Heat and laser treatments are not compatible. As you schedule your laser hair removal sessions, consider why cooler weather is best:
Why is fall or winter the best time to schedule laser hair removal?
UV exposure may not be a major concern for bikini line and Brazilian treatments, but daily sun exposure on the face, arms, and legs can lead to adverse effects. During fall and winter, it’s easier to cover your skin and avoid sun exposure.
What should you consider when scheduling in summer?
Generally speaking, summer is less ideal for laser because of the risk of prolonged sun exposure and the challenge of scheduling around seasonal activities.
But since it takes around 12 to 18 months for most clients to see lasting results, they’ll have to laser at some point during the summer. That said, there are several ways to combat these risks when scheduling treatments in the hotter months.
For laser hair removal aftercare, you’ll need to keep treated areas covered or wear SPF at all times in the sun. For scheduling, we suggest not having an active tan two to four weeks before a treatment, and you’ll want to avoid excessive sun exposure for a week after — so plan any pool or beach trips far enough away from your laser treatment.
Additionally, if you have any type of tan that’s older than four weeks, you can still schedule laser hair removal. But until the tan is completely gone, your laser specialist will use a lower power setting, which can mean less effective results.
Benefits of starting laser hair removal in fall or winter
When you start laser treatment in the fall or winter, it’s easier to protect your skin from sun exposure and heat. In turn, you may enjoy an easier recovery and better overall results.
Consider scheduling your first laser hair removal treatment as soon as the weather becomes cooler, as more hair equals greater heat retention. It will be easier to endure those summertime sessions with fewer follicles to target.
Related: How Safe Is Laser Hair Removal?
The best time of day to book your laser hair removal session
Of course, the best laser hair removal schedule isn’t just about the season — it’s also about the ideal time of day.
When should you schedule your laser hair removal appointment?
The best time to schedule your laser hair removal treatment is when you can reliably keep your skin cool. You’ll need to keep your skin as cool as possible for up to 72 hours after treatment, so no exercise, saunas, or baths. In fact, you shouldn’t even walk for extended periods after a laser session.
What’s the ideal time between laser appointments?
People with sensitive skin may benefit from evening appointments since they can go home afterward and allow their skin to recover without the risk of sweating or sun exposure. Those with a higher pain tolerance or tighter schedule may require morning sessions, but they may need to be mindful of their activity levels afterward.
What happens if you wait too long between laser sessions?
If you allow your hair to grow without laser treatments for an extended time, your hair may shift into a dormant phase in which it’s harder for lasers to effectively target them. Your results won’t last as long and your cost will increase as you require additional sessions.
Related: How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?
The Naked Cupcake offers laser hair removal all year round!
At The Naked Cupcake Wax Studio, we offer hair removal solutions to meet all your needs! Whether you want to create a regular waxing schedule for facial fuzz or enjoy long-term body hair reduction with laser hair removal, we’re here to help! Book a consultation today to begin your journey to silky-smooth skin!
