Northern Beaches Mums Group
Northern Beaches Mums Group

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal: What to Do Before Your First Session

Are you tired of the endless cycle of waxing, shaving, and tweezing hair?

If yes, it’s time to say goodbye to razors and waxing strips. As the new advanced hair removal techniques through laser are rapidly evolving, it is a game-changing solution to achieve painless, smooth and hair-free skin.

But do you know that your preparation before the first session can make or break the results? Proper planning not only maximizes the effectiveness of the treatment but also ensures your experience is as comfortable as possible. 

If you’re wondering what to do before laser hair removal, how to prepare for it, or what to avoid before treatment, here is your ultimate guide.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

In this technique, a concentrated light beam is used to target the pigment (melanin) in hair follicles. Melanin absorbs the light energy, harming the follicle and preventing it from growing new hair.

Dark, coarse hair is best suited for this process since it has more melanin to absorb light energy. It is less effective on light-colored, blonde, or gray hair. 

If you are considering this treatment for yourself, then you can experience several benefits over other hair removal methods, such as tweezing, waxing, or shaving. 

Here are some of the key advantages:

  • Long-lasting Results: Hair can be reduced by 10% to 40% with a single treatment and by 90% with multiple treatments, and these effects can last for months or years depending on hormonal levels. While some regrowth may occur, it will be finer and lighter than before. 
  • Precision: Lasers can target specific areas of unwanted hair with minimal impact on surrounding skin.
  • Speed: These treatments can be performed quickly, especially in small targeted areas.
  • Reduced Ingrown Hairs: Unlike shaving or waxing, it does not cause ingrown hairs.
  • Convenience: Once you complete your treatment plan, you will no longer need to opt for other hair removal methods. 

Why Does It Matter?

Before starting the process, it is important that you should prepare beforehand because it ensures- 

  1. Better Results: Prepping your skin allows the laser to target the hair follicle effectively.
  2. Reduced Discomfort:  Following pre and post-treatment guidelines can minimize side effects like redness or swelling.
  3. Fewer Risks: Proper care reduces the chance of burns, pigmentation, or irritation of any kind.

Things to Avoid Before Laser Hair Removal

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your treatment, there are a few things you should avoid beforehand when preparing for laser hair removal.

Sun Exposure

Stay out of the sun for at least six weeks prior to your treatment. A tan might increase the likelihood of side effects and make your skin more susceptible to the laser. When spending time outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for optimal protection.

Tanning Beds

Discontinue using tanning beds for at least six weeks before your treatment.

Certain Medications

Certain drugs, such as Accutane and antibiotics, can make your skin more sensitive to laser light. Before beginning this procedure, inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking.

Waxing or Plucking

Refrain from electrolysis, plucking, and waxing for at least four to six weeks prior to your treatment. These techniques separate the hair follicle from the root, preventing the laser from targeting the hair.

Bleaching

Refrain from bleaching your hair at least four weeks before your treatment. After bleaching, your hair may become finer and less receptive to laser treatment.

How to Prepare Your Skin on the day of the Treatment?

You can do the following while preparing for laser hair removal, in addition to avoiding specific activities:

  • Shave the Treatment Area

Shave the region that needs attention one to three days before your session. This will allow the laser to target the hair follicle at the epidermis.

  • Cleanse the Area

On the day of your appointment, wash the treatment area with mild soap and water. Avoid strong lotions, soaps, or perfumes.

  • Wear loose fitted clothing

We advise our customers to wear comfortable, loose fitted clothing to avoid irritation post treatment. If you’re treating your legs, opt for loose fitted pants or a skirt rather than tight fitted jeans.

What to Expect During Your First Session?

During your initial consultation, the laser technician will determine your skin type, hair color, and hair growth trends. They will also address your treatment objectives and respond to any inquiries you might have. 

What to anticipate during the actual treatment?

  • The technician will give you safety glasses to protect your eyes from the laser light.
  • They will cool your skin with a topical anesthetic or cold air to minimize discomfort.
  • Short pulses of the laser will be applied to the treatment region.
  • You may feel a stinging or snapping sensation during the treatment.
  • Depending on the size of the treatment area, the full process usually takes 15 to 60 minutes.

Tips for Post-Treatment Care

It is crucial to take extra care after a hair removal procedure via laser. In addition to calming your skin, proper post-treatment maintenance guarantees the best possible outcomes and lowers the possibility of adverse effects.

Here are some crucial guidelines to adhere to: 

  1. Soothe Your Skin

It’s common to have some redness or swelling in the treated area after your session. To soothe and lessen discomfort, apply Post laser soothing gel or aloe vera gel. If necessary, over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can also relieve inflammation.

  1. Avoid Heat

After treatment, avoid hot showers, saunas, and exhausting exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours because your skin will be heat-sensitive. Heat might cause irritation and prolong inflammation or redness in the treated region. During this time, only use mild cleaners and lukewarm water. 

  1. Stay Out of the Sun

After laser therapy, exposure to the sun might raise the risk of discomfort and pigmentation problems. If you go outside, protect your skin by avoiding direct sunlight and using sunscreen with SPF 50+ that blocks UVA and UVB rays.

  1. Exfoliate

Gently exfoliating the treated area after 5 days to help prevent ingrown hairs and speed up hair shedding.

  1. Follow Up

For best results, laser hair removal requires several sessions. Adhere to the suggested follow-up regimen to properly target all hair development cycles.

Conclusion

Preparation is crucial for this procedure to go smoothly and effectively. From avoiding sun exposure to using the right creams or serums, these steps play a crucial role in achieving the best results.

Following these guidelines will set you up for a comfortable experience and achieve long-lasting results.


About Author

NewSkin Laser Clinics, led by a group of industry experts, offers advanced aesthetic treatments and specializes in state-of-the-art laser hair removal technology. Utilizing industry-leading devices like Yag and Alexandrite lasers, they provide safe, effective, and long-lasting hair reduction for all skin types. Their certified laser technicians combine precision and personalized care to deliver optimal results with minimal discomfort. 

Committed to the highest safety standards, NewSkin Laser Clinics stays at the forefront of innovation by integrating the latest advancements in cooling systems and pulse technology to enhance treatment efficiency. Whether targeting fine or coarse hair, their customized approach ensures smoother, hair-free skin with a confident, refreshed appearance.