Preparing for Laser Hair Removal | Blue Water Spa (2024)

Welcome to Blue Water Spa, the leading laser hair removal provider in The Triangle! Blue Water Spa is proudly owned by a physician, not a franchise. This requires Blue Water Spa to adhere to the safety, cleanliness and truth in advertising guidelines outlined by the NC Medical Board and The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Raleigh Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Michael Law, is onsite and directly oversees laser treatments.

Preparing For Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Prior to your first laser hair removal appointment, you will be required to have a complimentary medical consultation with one of our Nurse Practitioners to ensure that treatments will be safe and effective. In advance of your laser treatments, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make sure that you are ready for your appointment. If you have any questions about any of our procedures, please contact our office prior to your consultation or appointment.

Follow these guidelines unless your laser technician directs otherwise:

  • Do not use any topical products that cause photosensitivity (e.g. hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, retinols, and benzoyl peroxide) in the treatment areas for three days before treatment. Use a gentle cleanser and lotion on treated areas.
  • Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area, and do not use UV tanning beds at all for two weeks before treatment. Be sure to use a recommended broad-spectrum mineral sunblock with an SPF of 30 or above on a daily basis (rain or shine).
  • Follow instructions regarding all oral prescription medications that we provided at your medical laser consultation. If you are taking any new or different medications, including antibiotics, contact our office prior to your appointment.
  • Do not have Botox injections, dermal filler injections, chemical peels or microdermabrasion in the treatment area for at least 14 days before laser hair removal.
  • We ask that you are freshly showered or bathed with completely clean skin, without lotions, oils, creams or fragrances of any kind before coming in.
  • Any treatment areas should be shaved completely prior to treatment. Legs should be shaved around 24 hours prior to your appointment to avoid irritation. Do not wax, tweeze, epilate or use chemical depilatories for two weeks before treatment, or at all in between laser treatments. Since the laser targets the root of the hair, it must be present for the treatment to be effective. Shaving is the only form of hair removal recommended during the course of your treatments.

Related: Shop Laser Hair Removal Gift Cards and More!

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal | Blue Water Spa (1)

Can I Shave or Wax Before My Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

Yes, this is encouraged! The treatment area should be shaved completely prior to treatment. Legs should be shaved around 24 hours prior to your appointment to avoid irritation. Do not wax, tweeze, epilate or use chemical depilatories between laser treatments. Since the laser targets the root of the hair, it must be present for the treatment to be effective. Shaving is the only form of hair removal recommended during the course of your treatments. A charge of $75 or more will be added if the laser tech shaves the treatment area.

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal | Blue Water Spa (2)

What to Expect During Your Laser Hair Removal Appointment

Following the laser hair removal consultation, if we determine you are a good candidate, we will proceed with treatment. Your laser technician will begin by asking a few pertinent questions about your recent health history to ensure there are no contraindications for treatment. The technician will discuss your treatment desires and at that time you can specifically let us know what hair you want removed. We can even offer you a one-time use white pencil so you can draw where you would like the laser hair removal to start and end. The treatment area will be cleansed and prepared for treatment. Your technician will talk you through each step of the treatment to ensure you won’t experience any surprises.

While receiving laser hair removal at Blue Water Spa, you will be required to wear protective eyewear. You may still be able to see a flash of light, but your eyes will be completely covered. The laser technicians wear protective eyewear, as well. During the treatment, all areas of the body that will not be lasered will be covered with clothing. Only the areas to receive laser treatment will be exposed. We are always mindful of your comfort and your peace of mind; we will let you know ahead of time what to expect.

After Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment

It is normal to experience redness and swelling in the treatment area following laser hair removal. This may persist for several days. The treated area may feel like a razor burn or sunburn for a few hours after treatment. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone or aloe vera may be used to alleviate redness and irritation.

Hair in the treated area will slowly shed, typically over the course of two weeks. Patchiness of hair growth is normal, and will dissipate towards the completion of your laser hair removal treatment series.

Improper post-treatment care, including excessive heat or sun exposure of the treated area, may increase the chance of scarring, pigmentation changes and skin texture changes.

  • It is imperative that you avoid excessive heat in the treatment area, such as hot tubs, saunas or working out for 24 hours after laser hair removal treatment.
  • Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area, and do not use UV tanning beds at all for two weeks after treatment. Use a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or above on a daily basis (rain or shine).
  • Do not use any topical products that cause photosensitivity (e.g. hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, retinols, and benzoyl peroxide) in the treatment areas for three days after treatment. Use a gentle cleanser and lotion on treated areas.
  • Follow instructions regarding all oral medications that we provided at your medical laser consultation.
  • Do not have Botox injections, dermal filler injections, chemical peels or microdermabrasion in the treatment area for at least 14 days after laser hair removal.

Treatments should be scheduled as follows:
Facial Areas: Every 4-6 weeks
Trunk Areas: Every 6-8 weeks
Leg Areas: Every 8-10 weeks

If you have any concerns or questions, please call our office at (919) 870-6066.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Hair Removal

What areas of the face or body cannot be treated with a laser?
None. All areas of the face or body can be treated with the laser that is suited for your skin type.

Is laser hair removal painful?
While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, the majority of clients do not think it is painful. Our patients report that treatment with our lasers is much more comfortable than other lasers and far more comfortable than waxing. Our lasers are equipped with a DCD (Dynamic Cooling Device) that makes the treatment both comfortable and safer to the skin than other lasers. Because the lasers we use have a very large (18mm) spot size, treatments are very quick. Any discomfort one experiences is over very quickly.

How many laser hair removal treatments will I need?
The number of treatments necessary varies per individual, on average 5-8 treatments, although because of numerous variables this medical treatment cannot be guaranteed. Multiple treatments performed at 4 to 10 week intervals are necessary in order to obtain the best result. Irregular treatment schedules and prolonged intervals between treatments may reduce the efficacy of laser hair removal.

Is laser hair removal permanent?
Laser hair removal at Blue Water Spa is FDA-cleared to permanently reduce hair anywhere on the face or body where smooth skin is desired. Some hair follicles are stimulated only by changes in hormone levels. Laser hair removal treatments do not prevent new hair growth in those follicles. Patients may experience hair regrowth from various hormone related causes, such as pregnancy or hormone changes related to aging.

Have you been considering Laser Hair Removal in Raleigh? Learn if laser hair removal is right for you by viewing our Laser Hair Removal Frequently Asked Questions.

ABOUT BLUE WATER SPA

Blue Water Spa is a Raleigh spa that has been voted Best Medical Spa in America three consecutive years. Owned and operated by Raleigh Plastic Surgeon Michael Law MD , the Raleigh medical spa is the top provider of Juvederm®, Latisse® and Botox® in Raleigh, NC. From CoolSculpting, Emsculpt, Laser Hair removal, laser skin tightening to microdermabrasion, pampering spa packages, and medical-grade clean & cruelty-free skincare, at Blue Water Spa you will receive the ultimate in results and relaxation.

Text Blue Water Spa to schedule your Botox consultation: 919-769-6044.

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal | Blue Water Spa (2024)

FAQs

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal | Blue Water Spa? ›

Do not wax, tweeze, epilate or use chemical depilatories for two weeks before treatment, or at all in between laser treatments. Since the laser targets the root of the hair, it must be present for the treatment to be effective. Shaving is the only form of hair removal recommended during the course of your treatments.

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

6 Things To Do Before Your Laser Hair Removal Treatments Begin
  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. ...
  2. Shave the Area. ...
  3. Avoid Sun Exposure. ...
  4. Put Down the Bleach. ...
  5. Check Your Medication. ...
  6. Remove Makeup or Creams.
Jun 27, 2022

What should I do before laser hair removal? ›

What to do before laser hair removal
  1. Consider your medical history. Before getting a laser hair removal treatment, it's essential to assess your medical history. ...
  2. Limit sun exposure. ...
  3. Don't wax or tweeze the treatment area. ...
  4. Shave the treatment area. ...
  5. Stop bleaching your hair. ...
  6. Arrive with a clean skin. ...
  7. Wear loose clothing.
Feb 15, 2023

Is it better to shower before laser hair removal? ›

Take a shower right before your appointment and clean the treatment area, making sure to remove dirt and oil from the skin. Avoid using any skincare products (including moisturizer) after you cleanse. Avoid lotions, oils, and deodorants prior to treatment. Arrive to your appointment with clean, dry skin.

How long after laser hair removal can I go in the hot tub? ›

Avoid taking hot showers or baths, and don't sit in a sauna or hot tub for the first two days after your treatment. This will help reduce the risk of damage to your skin. Don't go swimming after your treatment either. The high levels of chlorine from the pool water can damage your skin.

Is stubble ok for laser hair removal? ›

Shave Before Treatment

You should shave within 24 hours of your scheduled laser appointment. Your laser technician cannot treat areas that have hair above the skin. You cannot even receive treatment if there is rough stubble because this may create too much heat for the pigment of your skin.

How do you shave your whole body before laser hair removal? ›

Our Top Tips For Shaving Before Laser Hair Removal
  1. Take a warm shower or bath. They are great for softening your skin and opening up your pores. ...
  2. Exfoliate. While in the shower, use a loofah or gentle scrub to exfoliate the area you want to shave. ...
  3. Apply shaving cream or gel. ...
  4. While shaving. ...
  5. After shaving.
Apr 7, 2020

What are the don'ts of laser hair removal? ›

Here's what to avoid:
  • Avoid exposing skin to UV light (sunlight or sunbeds) or self-tan for at least 2 weeks after treatment. ...
  • Avoid heat treatments such as spas, steam rooms and saunas for 7 days.
  • Avoid excessive scrubbing or applying pressure to the skin for 4-5 days.

Can I shave 2 hours before laser hair removal? ›

Dry skin during laser hair treatment can lead to itchy, irritated skin. This is another reason why you should leave 24 hours between shaving and your appointment, and you should also take care to use shaving cream or shaving gel to keep the skin on the treatment area moisturised.

Do I tip for laser hair removal? ›

It is generally accepted that tips are voluntary and appreciated. The standard 15 to 20 percent rule applies in most cases, but some discounted sites may recommend tipping 20% of the original price.

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 soon after laser can I shower? ›

You can take a shower after laser hair removal, but it is recommended to use cool water for the first few showers. 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.

Is it safe to pull out loose hairs after laser hair removal? ›

Showing signs of a successful laser hair removal as once the hairs shed naturally, the follicle is dead meaning the hair will not regrow. In addition, pulling out any loose hairs can irate the skin and could cause unwanted side effects such as swelling.

Will I get ingrown hairs after laser hair removal? ›

Ingrown hairs are a common problem when shaving or waxing; they normally don't develop after undergoing laser hair removal procedures, but in some cases, they can appear.

What foods should you avoid after laser treatment? ›

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.

What happens if you don't shave before laser hair removal? ›

Potential Risks of Skipping the Shave

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.

Which part of the body should not be treated with laser hair removal? ›

Laser hair removal is used to reduce unwanted hair. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, chin and the bikini line. However, it's possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area, except the eyelid or surrounding area. Skin with tattoos should not be treated either.

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