Laser hair removal is a popular procedure due to its safe, effective and permanent way of removing unwanted hair. If you’re considering this convenient and cost-effective option, it is important to understand the procedure’s process. Laser Clinics UK shares helpful tips in preparing yourself for your first laser hair removal treatment:
1. Avoid waxing and plucking
Laser hair treatment works by targeting the hair roots, so you must not wax or pluck four weeks leading up to your appointment. Instead, you can shave the treatment area at least 12-24 hours before the day of your treatment to keep the pigment in the hair follicles.
2. Avoid direct sun exposure
Stay out of the sun before your laser hair removal. Avoid exposing the area for treatment two weeks before your procedure and always protect your skin with sunscreen. You should also avoid tanning or sunless tanning products to prevent the risk of skin lightening and other side effects. If you have a tan, ensure no residue of natural or fake tan is present on the skin before scheduling your treatment.
3. Check your skincare regimen
Bathing before the appointment is good but do not apply any makeup or topical creams like moisturisers, serums or perfumes. These substances can cover the skin, blocking the laser’s ability to target the hair follicles. You should also avoid chemical peels or laser resurfacing treatments at least four weeks before your treatments.
4. Cleanse and Exfoliate
Make sure to cleanse the skin for treatment on the day of your laser hair removal session. You can also exfoliate the skin at the treatment area at least three days before the appointment. You may opt not to apply deodorant as it will be removed prior to the session.
5. Wear comfortable clothing
Avoid wearing tight or abrasive clothing because it may feel uncomfortable after the laser hair removal. Make sure to wear loose-fitting or clothes that expose the treated area so that the soothing topical cream won’t get on to your clothing.
6. Consult with a reliable clinic
Lastly, choose a trusted clinic for your permanent hair removal treatment. By consulting with an experienced and reliable clinic, you prevent any complications or skin irritations, especially if you have sensitive skin.
At Laser Clinics UK, our highly-trained Therapists will consider your skin and hair type before creating a personalised laser hair removal plan tailored to you. We are the largest global cosmetic clinic company, and we use the best medical-grade, industry-leading technology to get the best results for our clients.
Guided with all these tips, you’re ready for your first laser hair removal session. Get your personalised treatment - book your complimentary consultation with us today.
FAQs
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 to prepare for your first laser hair removal treatment? ›
Here's what you need to do before you can experience the joys of permanent hair reduction.
- Stop plucking and waxing. ...
- Shave 24-48 hours before treatment. ...
- Refrain from tanning. ...
- Use caution with certain medications.
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.
What do you wish you knew before laser hair removal? ›
Exposure to sunlight can damage your skin during your laser hair removal course as the laser can target the pigment in the skin instead of in the hair. For this reason, the area cannot be treated if it has been exposed to sun up to four weeks prior to treatment.
Do and don'ts before laser hair removal? ›
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.
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.
What happens if you miss a spot shaving before laser? ›
If you don't shave before your laser hair removal treatment, the laser will target the surface hair, which can lead to a less effective session. This means you might require more sessions than initially planned, delaying your journey towards that attractive, hair-free body.
Should you 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.
What happens if you shave too soon after laser? ›
Immediately after your treatment your skin is likely to be sensitive – if you shave too soon after your session you may irritate the skin. Generally you'll need to wait a week , but everyone's skin is different so it might be worth shaving a small patch first to see how your skin reacts.
Should I laser my pubic hair? ›
' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.
You should see immediate results based on the color and thickness of your hair, the area treated, the type of laser, and the color of your skin. Regardless of these variations, you should notice a 10-25% reduction of hair after the first treatment. Expect no downtime after your first treatment.
What to wear when you get laser? ›
Wear clothes you're comfortable with a little cream rubbing off on – a topical cream may be used to soothe the area. We generally recommend avoiding tight or restrictive clothing, which may cause pain after treatment. Cleansing: The morning of treatment, cleanse the skin in the treatment area.
Why am I more hairy after laser? ›
No one actually knows why this happens with laser patients, but after treatment, the laser can do the opposite of what you're expecting and actually stimulate hair growth. And, if that wasn't enough, the hair can actually come back thicker and darker!
Why do I still feel stubble after laser hair removal? ›
Up to a few weeks after treatment, your skin will develop stubble or blackheads as a part of the shedding process that happens from hairs that were partially grown at the time of the procedure. Exfoliation during this period aids the shedding and diminishes the blackhead or stubble appearance.
How can I improve the effectiveness of laser hair removal? ›
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.
What happens the first time you get laser hair removal? ›
Regardless of these variations, you should notice a 10-25% reduction of hair after the first treatment. Expect no downtime after your first treatment. The area will be red and swollen, but that diminishes within a day or so. Use a cold compress to reduce any swelling.
Should I moisturize before laser hair removal? ›
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.
Should I cut my hair before laser hair removal? ›
Trim before laser
Additionally, trimming the hair can also help to minimize discomfort during the treatment, as longer hair can cause more pain when exposed to the laser. Therefore, trimming before laser treatment is a crucial step to ensure optimal results and a more comfortable experience.
