Pre & Post Laser Hair Removal Care

Laser hair removal is an excellent long-term solution for unwanted body hair, but you’ll need to take proper care of your skin before and after to avoid uncomfortable side effects and get the most out of your treatment.

Whether you want to get rid of pesky whiskers on your chin, thick strands in your pubic area, or you’re just tired of shaving your legs, you’re in the right place! Today, we’ll give you the best pre- and post-care instructions to ensure you’re ready for your first laser hair removal session.

What to expect before and after laser hair removal

In most cases, you can’t just walk into a laser hair removal salon and receive treatment on the spot. There’s a little prep work involved. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your initial session.

Consulting before your session

Before going under the laser beam, you’ll need to meet with your hair removal specialist to discuss your goals, your skin type, and whether or not you’ll benefit from the device they use.

This is a good time to ask questions about the process, talk about any medications you’ve taken recently, and learn about how to prep your skin for treatment.

The laser hair removal process

When you arrive for your laser session, you may receive protective eyewear, and your specialist may cleanse the treatment area and apply a cooling gel to protect your skin. Laser hair removal is usually a quick procedure, only taking between 10 and 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area.

Many people describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping on the skin. While it might feel slightly uncomfortable, clients often say they adjust to it quickly. 

Common side effects after laser hair removal

Common reactions following laser hair removal include redness, inflammation, and raised follicles. These side effects are generally mild and dissipate on their own within a few days. Though annoying, they’re actually a sign of good blood flow in the treated area. You can apply an ice pack or calming aloe vera gel to soothe irritation.

If you experience a histamine response like hives or welts, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help. Of course, if it’s extremely itchy or uncomfortable, your doctor may call in a prescription for a steroidal cream. 

Pre-care tips for laser hair removal

Here are a few tips to help prepare your skin for treatment: 

Stop waxing, threading, or plucking 4 weeks prior

For the best results, it’s essential to stop threading, plucking, and waxing hair from the treatment area at least four weeks prior to your first session. This will ensure the laser device can identify and destroy your hair follicles.

Avoid excessive sun exposure and self-tanner

Excessive sun exposure within a month of laser hair removal can increase the risk of burns and permanent skin darkening and discoloration. Tanning not only causes major side effects, but it can also make treatment less effective, so avoid sunless tanner, too.  

Shave up to 24 hours before your appointment

You’ll need to shave about 24 hours before your appointment so that light waves can target your hair roots instead of the shafts. Areas that grow rapidly, like a man’s beard, can be shaved the morning of your treatment. 

Cleanse skin thoroughly

The night before your laser hair removal session, thoroughly cleanse your skin to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. 

Don’t wear makeup on the day of your appointment

The day of your appointment you’ll want to arrive with clean, bare skin. Avoid wearing makeup or applying topical products like lotion. If you’re treating your underarms, you’ll need to skip the deodorant. 

Post-care tips for laser hair removal

A good rule of thumb is that you should avoid anything that will heat up your body for at least 24 hours after laser hair removal. You can ease back into these activities after the inflammation subsides. Here are our best aftercare tips to keep in mind: 

Avoid sun exposure

Sun exposure is strictly off-limits after laser treatment, as it can burn your skin in a very short amount of time. Wear protective clothing and broad-spectrum sunscreen if you plan to encounter UV rays. 

Avoid strenuous exercise

Heat and friction will irritate your sensitive skin after laser hair removal and increase the risk of infection. Take a couple of days off from the gym and wear loose-fitting clothing to allow the affected area to recover. 

Avoid hot baths, showers, and saunas for 24 hours

Hot showers, baths, and saunas will also need to wait until your skin is healed. After all, heat and steam can promote inflammation. Instead, opt for lukewarm showers until redness and irritation subside.

Additionally, you shouldn’t swim in pools or at the beach until the healing process is complete. 

Avoid harsh products

It’s tempting to jump back into your normal skincare routine, but you’ll need to avoid harsh scrubs and potent active ingredients in the days after treatment. Stick with a light moisturizer and sunscreen for the first few days of recovery. 

Experience comfort and long-lasting results from your laser hair removal at The Naked Cupcake!

At The Naked Cupcake, we’re committed to offering the best hair removal methods to meet your needs! Contact us today or schedule a consultation to get started!