A Comprehensive Guide on What to Expect From Your Laser Hair Removal Treatments
Laser hair removal is quickly becoming one of the most popular aesthetic procedures for permanently reducing unwanted body and facial hair. At Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness, our experienced providers use advanced laser technology to safely and effectively treat all skin types.
If you’re considering laser hair removal, this guide will walk you through what to expect before, during, and after your treatments for smooth, hair-free skin.
What To Expect Before and After Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Preparing For Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Before your laser hair removal treatment at Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness, there are a few things you should do to prepare your skin and maximize results:
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 4-6 weeks beforehand. Exposure to UV rays can increase risk of burns or hyperpigmentation.
- Stop waxing, plucking, or using depilatory creams 4 weeks before. This allows hair to grow out enough for the laser to target.
- Shave the area 12-24 hours pre-treatment to a length of 1mm. This enables optimal laser penetration to follicle.
- Exfoliate gently 1-2 days before to remove dead skin cells and allow the laser to reach the hair follicle.
- Avoid applying lotions, cosmetics, deodorant, or oils before your appointment as they may interfere with laser treatment.
- Inform our provider about any medications you take that can increase photosensitivity.
Following these pre-treatment guidelines will properly prepare your skin for the laser and lead to better results.
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Immediately After Your Laser Session
Right after your laser hair removal treatment you can expect mild redness and swelling around the treated area, similar to a sunburn. This usually resolves within a few hours. You may also experience a warm, prickly sensation which subsides quickly.
Applying aloe vera gel helps soothe this. Mild itching or stinging may last up to 72 hours post-treatment, and over-the-counter oral antihistamines can help reduce itching. Additionally, small swollen hair follicles may appear and last up to a few days as the destroyed hairs are shed.
These are all normal reactions that demonstrate the laser is working effectively. The redness and sensitivity generally dissipate within 1-3 days.
When Will I See Hair Removal Results?
- Treated hairs will begin shedding within 1-3 weeks as the deactivated follicles push them out.
- Repeat treatments are needed as hair growth occurs in phases and laser only affects active follicles. Most patients require 3-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
- Notable hair reduction is visible after the 2nd session, with more significant results after the 4th-6th treatment.
- Permanent hair reduction is achieved approximately 3-4 weeks after your final maintenance session as remaining hairs fall out over time.
- Treatments result in 80-90% permanent hair loss after a complete series. However, dormant follicles may reactivate later on, requiring touch-up treatments.
With multiple treatments, laser hair removal can provide lasting smooth skin, though periodic maintenance may be needed for optimal long-term results.
Potential Side Effects Before After Laser Hair Removal
While laser hair removal is very safe when performed properly, some minor side effects can occur:
- Skin irritation, blistering or crusting: Using proper laser settings and following aftercare reduces this risk.
- Burns: Burns are rare with today’s advanced devices. Practitioners are trained to adjust settings for different skin tones to prevent burns.
- Hyperpigmentation: Darker skin is at higher risk of hyperpigmentation or hypo-pigmentation. However, these changes in pigment are usually temporary.
- Eye injury: Protective eyewear is worn to avoid accidental laser exposure to eyes.
- Infection: Strict sanitization protocols make infection unlikely. Avoiding activities that cause excessive sweating for 24-48 hours prevents bacteria growth.
- Scarring: Scarring is very uncommon but patients must avoid picking or scratching the treatment area during the healing process.
Our laser technician will take every precaution to minimize potential side effects. Report any concerns immediately so they can be addressed.
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What’s the Recovery Time After Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal can cause short-term side effects that resolve within a certain timeframe. Knowing what to expect can help you plan accordingly. Below is a general timeline for recovery after treatment:
| Timeline | Expected Effects | Recommended Care |
| Immediately After | Redness, swelling, warm sensation in treated area | Apply aloe vera gel or cool compress |
| 1-3 Days After | Potential blistering, bruising, irritation | Use soothing creams, avoid hot showers |
| 1 Week After | Treated hair sheds | Gently exfoliate, avoid picking |
| 2+ Weeks After | Pinkness and sensitivity subside | Use SPF 30+, moisturize |
| 4-6 Weeks After | Less hair regrowth | Repeat treatment |
Recovery varies per individual. Follow Dr. Soni’s post-care instructions for optimal laser hair removal results.
Are There Any Specific Instructions for Different Body Areas Before and After Laser Hair Removal?
Pre- and post-treatment guidelines can vary depending on the body part being treated. Here are some tips:
Face
- Shave instead of waxing to avoid ingrown hairs that can worsen with laser treatment.
- Apply SPF 30 sunscreen after to prevent pigmentation changes.
- Avoid retinoids and glycolic acid products 1 week before and after.
Underarms
- Shave instead of deodorants, antiperspirants or scented lotions before treatment.
- Use aluminum-free deodorant for 24 hours to avoid skin irritation.
Bikini Area
- Thoroughly cleanse and exfoliate before treatment to prevent infection from ingrown hairs.
- Avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, and steam rooms for 72 hours post-treatment.
Legs
- Exfoliate legs 24-48 hours before but do not apply lotions or oils afterwards. This allows maximum laser penetration.
- The day before, shave legs in direction of hair growth to avoid ingrown hairs.
- Wear loose fitting clothing after to avoid friction on treated skin.
- Large treatment areas like legs may require splitting into multiple sessions to allow time between for hair regrowth.
- Schedule sessions 4-6 weeks apart to match the hair regrowth cycle and catch dormant follicles.
Back
- Have someone assist by shaving back hair before appointments. Alternatively, use hair removal creams instead of shaving.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation and sweating on the treated area after.
- Use an aloe-based moisturizer twice a day post-treatment to soothe skin.
Chest
- Avoid deodorants or body sprays before your laser session as they can interact with the laser light.
- Wear loose, cotton clothing for a few days after to prevent friction and irritation.
The Perfect Partnership for Smooth, Silky Skin
At Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness, we use advanced laser technology paired with expert techniques to provide safe, effective treatments customized to your individual needs. Our experienced laser technicians will guide you through the process, from appropriate pretreatment prep to proper aftercare to achieve optimal results.
With a series of treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart to match your hair’s regrowth cycle, laser hair removal can free you from unwanted body and facial hair. You’ll see gradually smoother skin after each session, with long-lasting hair reduction after your completed treatment series.
While periodic maintenance may be needed for dormant follicles, laser hair removal offers a proven way to prevent hair regrowth and achieve touchably soft, stubble-free skin all over your body.
Contact Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness today to schedule your consultation. Our knowledgeable staff will answer all your questions and design an effective laser hair removal plan for the smooth, hair-free skin you desire.
FAQs
What should I do to prepare my skin before a laser hair removal treatment?
Stop waxing and plucking 4 weeks prior, avoid sun exposure and tanning for 4-6 weeks beforehand, shave the area 12-24 hours pre-treatment, gently exfoliate 1-2 days before, and avoid lotions, cosmetics, oils on the area before your appointment.
How long does it take to see results from laser hair removal and how many treatments are needed?
The results from laser hair removal are typically noticeable after 1-3 weeks, with most patients needing 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. Significant reduction is visible after the 2nd session and more after the 4th-6th.
What kind of side effects or risks are associated with laser hair removal?
Potential but rare side effects of laser hair removal include skin irritation, blistering, burns, temporary hyper/hypopigmentation in darker skin tones, eye injury if unprotected, and infection or scarring if aftercare is not followed.
How long is the recovery time and what can I expect after a laser hair removal treatment?
After a laser hair removal treatment, immediate redness and swelling can be expected for a few hours. Days later, there may be potential blistering and irritation. After 1 week, treated hair sheds, and 2+ weeks later, sensitivity and pinkness subside.
What special instructions should I follow for laser hair removal on different body parts like face, underarms, bikini area?
For laser hair removal on different body parts like the face, underarms, and bikini area, specific instructions include shaving instead of waxing beforehand, wearing loose clothing after, and avoiding irritation from deodorant, sweat, and friction. It’s important to check with Dr. Soni for specific instructions for each body part
