Discover the right way to soothe and hydrate the sensitive areas after your session.
Laser hair removal can leave your skin inflamed and begging for relief. But how soon can you start smoothing on moisturizers and creams after treatment? What ingredients help rather than hurt sensitive areas? Should you ever use steroids to reduce post-laser swelling?
Ethos Spa’s Dr. Soni will answer these key questions in this guide to properly caring for your skin with the right moisturizers after laser hair removal.
With years of first-hand experience, he will share expert tips on when to start moisturizing, what to look for in gentle lotions, whether steroid creams are safe, and how to choose products specially formulated for reactive skin.
Can I Use Moisturizer After Laser Hair Removal?
Yes, you can start using moisturizers right away after laser hair removal, especially once the initial inflammatory response has settled down. Always follow your laser hair removal technician’s specific guidance on starting a skincare routine.
Recommendations may vary depending on the treatment areas and your sensitivity. Some patients may be advised by Dr. Soni to wait a few days before introducing moisturizers or other products.
Fragrance-Free and Gentle Are Ideal
Once the waiting period has passed, Dr. Soni takes a gentle approach to hydrating sensitive areas.
Cleanse carefully and pat dry before applying a thin layer of fragrance-free, mild moisturizer twice daily—once in the morning and again before bedtime. This provides moisture without overloading reactive skin.
Stop waxing and depilatories – say goodbye to irritation with Ethos Spa’s permanent, gentle laser hair removal instead! Talk to us today!
Is It Safe to Use Steroid Cream After Laser Hair Removal?
Steroid creams can be used safely after laser hair removal for the first 24 hours to help reduce itchiness and inflammation under professional guidance. Take care when using them. Improper application of steroids may delay wound healing as proven by the findings in this study.
Dr. Soni offers a few words of caution around using steroid creams post-laser, though:
- Only use low-potency hydrocortisone designed for sensitive skin. High-strength steroids can cause thinning and damage.
- Apply sparingly to avoid delaying the healing process.
- Never use steroids on thin facial skin due to increased absorption and side effects.
- Follow your technician’s advice carefully, as steroids aren’t required after every session.
- If you regularly use prescription steroid creams for a condition like eczema, discuss laser risks and precautions with your dermatologist first. You may need to avoid treating active rash areas.
What Is the Best Lotion to Use After Laser Hair Removal?
According to Dr. Soni’s experience, the ideal lotion to use after laser hair removal treatments should be:
- Perfume-free and hypoallergenic to avoid further irritating treated skin
- Free of dyes, alcohol, or other harsh additives that can cause stinging
- Lightweight and non-comedogenic to provide hydration without clogging pores
- Calming formulas with soothing ingredients like aloe, oats, or ceramides
Thicker creams or occlusive products may trap heat and block proper healing. Dr. Soni recommends gentle, water-based lotions that absorb quickly. Reputable brands like Cetaphil, CeraVe, and Vanicream offer options specifically for sensitive post-procedure skin.
Best Cream to Use After Laser Hair Removal for Sensitive Skin
Pure aloe vera gel and 1% hydrocortisone cream can help soothe sensitive skin after laser hair removal when used briefly, though always get approval from your provider first.
Consider Pure Aloe Vera Gel for Soothing Relief
According to Dr. Soni, pure aloe vera gel is an excellent choice for sensitive skin needing TLC after laser resurfacing. With its exceptional cooling and calming properties, aloe provides natural relief when the skin is angry.
Look for 100% pure aloe without added fragrances, colors, or other irritating ingredients. Apply a thin layer after cleansing to moisturize while reducing inflammation. The simpler the better with this sensitive skin superstar.
OTC Hydrocortisone Creams Can Help Temporarily
For more stubborn, localized itching and swelling after treatment, Dr. Soni suggests using an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream sparingly for 2-3 days at most. This low-dose steroid cream fights inflammation to give temporary relief without thinning the skin significantly when used briefly based on our experience.
But more is not better with hydrocortisone – discontinue use after a few days to avoid complications. Do a patch test first, and check with your technician if it’s okay for your situation.
Ethos Spa’s laser experts provide hair removal with significantly less pain and longer-lasting results – minus the hiccups. Book your session now!
FAQs
Can you use hair removal cream after laser on remaining hairs?
No, avoid hair removal creams after laser; they remove the hair follicle needed for further treatments.
Can you use coconut oil after laser hair removal for soothing?
Yes, apply coconut oil after laser hair removal to moisturize, soothe inflammation, and promote healing of the treated skin area.
Can I use bio oil after laser hair removal for scar prevention?
No strong evidence shows bio oil prevents scarring from laser hair removal; use sun protection, gentle skincare, and let the area heal instead. More importantly, follow Dr. Soni’s advice.
Which is the best cream after laser hair removal for quick recovery?
The best creams after laser hair removal for quick recovery are hydrocortisone and clobetasol propionate to reduce inflammation under medical guidance.
What oils are safe as laser hair removal oil for post-treatment care?
Coconut, tea tree, and calendula oils safely moisturize, prevent infection, reduce inflammation after laser hair removal based on their properties.
