6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency (2024)

June 27, 2022

6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency (1)

Getting a laser hair removal treatment is a great idea, especially if you are tired of constantly shaving and waxing. Waxing your bikini line or shaving your underarms is an inconvenience that steals you of time that could be spent doing something much more enjoyable. Beyond the time, other hair removal tasks like eliminating upper lip hair can also be quite painful. This summer, opt for a more permanent hair removal option with laser hair removal. In recent years, more and more women are turning to laser hair removal treatments to get rid of unwanted hair once and for all. If you’re interested in these treatments, we’ve put together a list of laser hair removal prep tips to make your experience even more quick and easy!

One question for many who are new to these treatments is “how does laser hair removal work in the first place?” The hair is removed with the aid of a laser that emits specific wavelengths that target the pigments found in the root of the hair follicles. The follicles absorb the light which enables the lasers to destroy the hair follicles without causing any damage to the surface of the skin.

To get the best out of the treatments here is how to prepare for laser hair removal:

1. Stop Plucking and Waxing

One of the best ways to prepare for hair removal treatment is to cease all forms of plucking and waxing. As laser hair removal works by seeking out the roots of the hair, it is important to leave the areas to be treated alone for at least four to six weeks before the first appointment. Shaving is not a mortal sin and is encouraged as it does not affect the root of the hair. It is important to adhere to the ‘no plucking six weeks before your next appointment’ rule to get the best results.

2. Shave the Area

As previously mentioned, shaving the area is encouraged as long as no plucking or waxing is going on. A shave 24 to 48 hours before the appointed date is important. While the hair root is invisible, the laser can seek it out within the pigment. By shaving, you reduce the chances of burns with the hair being below the skin’s surface.

3. Avoid Sun Exposure

What to do before laser hair removal—avoid the sun for at least two weeks before the laser hair removal procedure. Keeping the affected areas out of the sun also includes avoiding tanning beds and self-tanners. They can result in skin discoloration after the laser treatment. In addition, sunburn can lead to excessive pain and blistering.

4. Put Down the Bleach

As you now know, laser treatments seek out the root of the hairs. Your hair pigment or color can be found in the root and it absorbs the lights produced by the laser. This is how the hair is permanently destroyed. With bleached hair, the pigment is altered and it becomes increasingly difficult to target the hairs. Before any laser hair removal treatment, it is important to stop bleaching. This is enough time for the hair roots to grow back to their original color, making it easier for the laser to do its job easily and efficiently.

5. Check Your Medication

Before going under the laser, so to speak, you must speak up about all the medications you are taking. This includes all oral and topical medications. Some medications can affect your laser treatment and make them less effective. Other forms of medication can make the skin sensitive and more likely to burn and blister. Important medications that must be mentioned include antibiotics, birth control, acne, and photosensitizing medications. Depending on the medication, it is not a must that you stop taking them. However, the knowledge will have the laser professional adjust your treatment and proceed with added caution. Apart from medications you are already taking, you should also divulge any new medication you take at your next appointment.

6. Remove Makeup or Creams

When it comes to laser treatments, makeup and creams are a big no on the day of the treatment. This is because the ingredients contained in those beauty products can affect the result of laser hair removal procedures. All makeup and cream products must be removed from the area being treated. Instead, you cannot go wrong with soap and water to clean the area to be treated.

Conclusion

When it comes to getting rid of unwanted hair, laser hair removal treatments are the best way to go. As a more permanent solution, it ensures that you don’t have to constantly deal with invading and unwanted hair follicles. By following the tips outlined above before going for a laser hair removal treatment, you’ll help ensure that you have a great experience and get the best possible results. For more information or if you have any other questions, please contact The Skin Agency at (818) 308-7394.

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6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency (2024)

FAQs

6 Things to Do Before Beginning Laser Hair Removal | The Skin Agency? ›

Before laser hair removal

You must avoid plucking, waxing or bleaching the hair for six weeks prior to treatment. Preserving the root and the pigment of the hair is imperative for the success of the laser treatment. It is important to shave the area to be treated the day or night before your appointment.

What are the steps before laser hair removal? ›

Before laser hair removal

You must avoid plucking, waxing or bleaching the hair for six weeks prior to treatment. Preserving the root and the pigment of the hair is imperative for the success of the laser treatment. It is important to shave the area to be treated the day or night before your appointment.

How do I prepare my skin for laser hair removal? ›

Tips on Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
  1. Avoid waxing and plucking. ...
  2. Avoid direct sun exposure. ...
  3. Check your skincare regimen. ...
  4. Cleanse and Exfoliate. ...
  5. Wear comfortable clothing. ...
  6. Consult with a reliable clinic.
Jan 28, 2021

What are the rules before laser treatment? ›

The area of treatment should be shaved at least 12 hours prior to treatment. Wear loose-fitting clothes on the day. Avoid alcohol or smoking the night before and on the day of the treatment. Drink at least 1 litre of water the day before and the day of treatment - this helps your body to regulate its temperature.

What are the pre care instructions for laser hair removal? ›

PRE-TREATMENT CARE

The treatment area must be clean-shaven 12-24 hours before your treatment. Unshaved clients will be rescheduled. Razors are not provided in the clinics. Skin must be clean and free of makeup, lotions, moisturizers, oils, deodorant, sunless tanning products, numbing cream, etc.

Can I shave 3 hours before laser hair removal? ›

“When Should I Stop Shaving?” When you're getting ready for your laser hair removal procedure, make sure you shave the night before or the morning of your treatment. The reason for this precaution is simple – you want to remove as much hair as possible so that it doesn't absorb most of the laser's energy.

Can I shave 2 days after laser hair removal? ›

Everyone's body is different so the best thing to do is touch the skin to determine the sensitivity before shaving. If you shave too quickly you may irritate the skin even more, so waiting at least three or four days after your treatment is usually ideal.

How to prepare for first Brazilian laser hair removal? ›

How to Prepare for Your First Laser Hair Removal Session?
  1. Understand the procedure and what to expect.
  2. Take a Shower.
  3. Avoid certain skincare products.
  4. Shave the area a day or two before.
  5. Avoid Tanning and Irritation.
  6. Wear comfortable clothing.
  7. Hair Growth Cycles and Laser Treatment.
Jun 1, 2023

What happens if you moisturise before laser? ›

Avoid lotions, oils, and deodorants prior to treatment. Arrive to your appointment with clean, dry skin. Moisturizers, creams, lotions, or oils can prevent the laser from accessing the root, as can sweat or other debris. If you are treating your underarms, avoid wearing deodorant until after your appointment.

What should I do before laser skin? ›

Don't exfoliate your skin about one week before your treatment. Do temporarily stop all retinoid creams, glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid treatment as part of your daily skin care routine. Don't add any new products right before your treatment to avoid problems with irritation.

How to speed up shedding after laser hair removal? ›

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.

How do I prepare for laser hair removal at home? ›

How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
  1. Clean Your Skin Before the Treatment. ...
  2. Stop Waxing or Plucking. ...
  3. Shave the Treatment Area. ...
  4. Avoid Sun Exposure. ...
  5. Use Medications with Caution. ...
  6. Use Skin Products Carefully. ...
  7. Avoid Alcohol. ...
  8. Refrain from Drinking Coffee.
Mar 29, 2022

Do and don'ts after laser treatment? ›

Laser Hair Removal Aftercare Don'ts
  • Avoid Sun Exposure, Saunas, and Hot Baths for Several Days. ...
  • Avoid Tanning Lotions for Several Days. ...
  • Avoid Lotions with Perfumes and Fragrances for 48 Hours. ...
  • Don't Apply Pressure to the Treated Area for Several Days. ...
  • Avoid Body Scrubs for 48 Hours. ...
  • Don't Go Swimming for 48 Hours.
Apr 20, 2022

What are the protocols for laser hair removal? ›

Procedure Details

Shave the area that will be treated two to three days before a treatment. Laser hair removal treatments won't work on areas where the hair is longer than a grain of rice. After treatment begins, avoid waxing, tweezing and plucking hair in the treated areas.

How do you shave your pubes before laser hair removal? ›

Using scissors, trim off all long hairs before going in with a razor. Ensure your bikini area is wet. We don't advise shaving the area while it's dry. Don't be in a rush to finish.

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