If you’re making the commitment to laser hair removal, we’re going to offer you some pointers on what to do before and after your sessions. Following these simple guidelines will support the therapy’s total success and help you deal with any discomfort you may experience.
Laser hair removal pre & post treatment care helps you get the most from your treatment and ensures that your tech’s job is easier.
Things to do before.
- Shave! This is 100% necessary. You’re not being waxed. Laser hair removal addresses the hair follicle itself, so no growth is required, as is the case with waxing.
- If you’ve been tanning, or if you have a sunburn, you’ll need to wait at least two weeks (depending on depth of tan, or severity of sunburn) prior to treatment. Because your skin has been damaged (which is what tanning does, in truth), you need to give it a chance to recover.
- Exposure to UV rays in tanning beds or outdoor tanning is off the menu for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Exfoliate your skin to help it along and prepare it.
- Stop using all self-tanning products.
- Alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxal skin products must be avoided for one week before laser hair removal.
- Do not wax, tweeze or depilate the area you’re going to have treated for 7 days before treatment. As we’ve said, shaving is necessary before your sessions.
- If you’re on antibiotics of any kind, your course of drug therapy should cease 7 days prior to treatment.
Things to do after.
- Exfoliation following your treatment will help you avoid ingrown hairs. As your treatment proceeds, this should become a regular grooming habit.
- For 7 days following treatment, avoid the sun and tanning beds. Wear a good sunscreen that provides an SPF of at least 30.
- Any discomfort you experience can be treated with over-the-counter medications or topical analgesic creams.
- Follow your tech’s recommendations to the letter. Your laser hair removal technician is trained to know what skin type is being treated. Your skin type is an important factor in her recommendations for scheduling. Don’t try to rush the process. Follow the professional advice you’ll be given.
- Any other chemically-based treatments should be avoided for at least 7 days, or until you see that the area being treated is thoroughly healed.
- If you experience side effects like changes in skin pigmentation (loss, or increase), or swelling or redness that persists for more than a few days, come to Ethos and we’ll advise you. Don’t assume anything. Get expert advice you can trust.
As we’ve discussed elsewhere on this blog, laser hair removal is a process and you’re part of it. By following a few simple guidelines, you’ll get the results you want.
Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness is a leader in advanced aesthetic technologies. We’re here to help you look incredible and feel amazing.
These laser hair removal pre & post treatment care tips are offered to ensure your comfort and the success of your therapy. Questions? Contact us!
