Laser hair removal is one of the few hair removal methods whose results last for years and in some cases, forever. It involves using a laser device to damage or destroy the hair follicle, impeding future hair growth.
The treatment is considered safe when performed by trained skin professionals in a clean environment. However, patients can expect side effects such as redness, pain, and swelling. To ensure the side effects are mild and short-lived, cosmetic providers instruct their patients to take precautionary measures after the treatment.
This article goes through 11 laser hair removal aftercare tips for safe and successful treatment results.
Laser Hair Removal Aftercare Dos
To ease potential pain and discomfort, follow these laser hair removal aftercare tips.
1. Apply Cool Compresses
Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a dry cloth to soothe pain and minimize swelling. Keep the compress on the treatment area for 5-10 minutes several times a day until the side effects subside.
2. Wear Loose Fitting Clothes on the Treatment Day
The hair follicles often retain heat from the laser for a few days after the laser hair removal treatment. Wear loose-fitting clothes during that time to avoid friction and skin irritation.
3. Use Cool or Lukewarm Water for 48 Hours
Hot water can burn and blister the skin after a laser hair removal treatment. Use only lukewarm water when you shower and wash your face to avoid skin irritation.
4. Wait at Least Four Weeks Until the Next Treatment
Most patients need at least six treatments to achieve long-lasting results. The sessions need to be spaced four to six weeks apart for optimal results.
Laser Hair Removal Aftercare Don'ts
Avoid the following activities and products to minimize side effects and achieve the desired effects after a laser treatment.
1. Avoid Sun Exposure, Saunas, and Hot Baths for Several Days
Like hot water, the sun and heat can burn and irritate the skin after laser hair removal so avoid both for several days. If you do spend time outdoors, make sure you apply an SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Note: Learn why you need to apply sunscreen every day, how to choose a sunscreen, and which are the best sunscreen products.
2. Avoid Tanning Lotions for Several Days
After a laser hair removal treatment, the skin is sensitive and needs time to heal. Don’t apply self-tanners for several days to avoid burns, rashes, bumps, and irritation.
3. Avoid Lotions with Perfumes and Fragrances for 48 Hours
Perfumes and fragrances are harsh on the skin and can cause redness and discoloration if used after a laser hair removal treatment, when the skin is very sensitive. Avoid products with these ingredients, including underarm deodorant.
4. Don’t Apply Pressure to the Treated Area for Several Days
Allow your skin to heal properly after a laser treatment so avoid rubbing, scratching, scrubbing, tweezing, waxing, and other activities that involve the application of pressure on the treated area.
5. Avoid Body Scrubs for 48 Hours
Body scrubs contain abrasive components that exfoliate the skin. They can cause redness and irritation when the skin is sensitive. Wait until your skin has healed before you use body scrubs.
Note: Learn how to use a body scrub correctly.
6. Don’t Go Swimming for 48 Hours
Swimming pools contain chlorine, while lakes, rivers, and the sea harbor bacteria and algae that can irritate the skin. Wait at least 48 hours (or longer) before going for a swim.
7. Avoid Cosmetic Treatments in the Treated Area for Two Weeks
Though minimally invasive, chemical peels, IPL photofacial, and microdermabrasion are too harsh on the skin after laser hair removal. Wait about two weeks before you schedule any of these treatments.
Can You Shave After Laser Hair Removal?
Shaving is necessary before laser hair removal to avoid surface skin damage, but skin experts advise against it for several days after the laser treatment. Wait until redness, swelling, and itching are gone to shave again.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Side effects after laser hair removal are usually mild and short-lived. However, you should contact your medical provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
Burns, blisters, or scars
Skin discoloration
Swelling that doesn’t subside after three days
Pain that can’t be relieved with medication
Infection
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is one of the most popular hair removal methods today. It is quick, effective, and provides lasting results. Make sure you follow the best aftercare practices to ensure the desired effects.
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Do apply an ice-pack on the treated area to reduce pain, discomfort or irritation. Do apply aloe vera gel or calming creams for 3 days after the treatment. Do wear loose clothes to avoid friction on the treated area for 48 hours. Do keep treated area clean and dry for 48 hours.
Do apply an ice-pack on the treated area to reduce pain, discomfort or irritation. Do apply aloe vera gel or calming creams for 3 days after the treatment. Do wear loose clothes to avoid friction on the treated area for 48 hours. Do keep treated area clean and dry for 48 hours.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and re-apply sunblock every 2 hours when you're out, especially during the first week after your session. While your skin recovers, avoid exfoliating, shaving, and plucking new hair, extreme workouts, or harsh massages on the treated area for the first five days post-treatment.
Wet a clean, soft washcloth with cool water and place it on the treated area for several minutes at a time. You can also use an ice pack wrapped in a paper towel. This method helps to reduce temporary swelling and pain after your laser hair removal treatment.
It is best to avoid hot water, hot tubs, and saunas for at least 48 hours after the treatment. You should wait at least 6-8 hours after the session before taking a shower. It is also important to avoid using harsh products or scrubs on the treated area.
Shaving and exfoliating can increase follicular activity, making the following laser treatment more effective. Another tip suggested by experts is to pay attention to hair growth during laser hair removal treatment. Some localized areas may grow more quickly than others. This is a detail to share with your provider.
Moisturise: Keep your skin hydrated with a high-quality, fragrance-free moisturiser. This makes it easier for the shedding hair to push through the skin. Avoid hair removal methods: Resist the temptation to use tweezers, wax, or other hair removal methods on the treated area.
If you don't exfoliate these hairs some may become trapped so it's best to lightly exfoliate every few days to avoid this. If you continue to shave you may not notice this happening but it is nothing to worry about, it is a sign treatment has been effective.
Cause skin irritation: Unshaved hair can lead to post-laser redness, inflammation, and swelling. Increase burn risk: Longer hair can excessively absorb laser energy, heightening the risk of burns and blisters.
Yes, you can, and should, moisturise after laser hair removal. While you should not moisturise before your laser hair removal appointment, after your appointment is a different story. The best moisturisers to use after laser hair removal are perfume free. This will help to avoid excess skin irritation.
For up to 48 hours after treatment, wear loose cotton clothing and avoid swimming pools, Jacuzzis, steam rooms, and physical exercise. Also, avoid touching the skin under your arms and shower with lukewarm or cooler water. Do not wash with water that's too hot or too cold.
It is generally recommended to wait at least three or four days after laser hair removal treatment before shaving the treated area. This allows time for the skin to recover and reduces the risk of irritation. Some sources suggest waiting until shedding occurs, which typically happens a few days after treatment.
It's recommended to wait at least 6-8 hours after a laser hair removal session before taking a shower; which should be cold or very mild. This gives the skin time to cool down and for any redness or swelling to subside.
Immediately after treatment, it's common to experience some redness and swelling, similar to mild sunburn. Applying a cool compress or a soothing aloe vera gel can help alleviate these symptoms, providing comfort and reducing inflammation.
You may also apply Vaseline, Aquaphor, or hydrocortisone cream to moisturize the area as it heals. Vitamin E ointment is helpful too, as it helps to restore damaged skin cells. And, you should wear sunblock (SPF 25+) any time you go outside. Sun exposure is one of the worst things for the skin after laser removal.
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