How To Prepare For Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a popular hair removal method that is commonly used to reduce unwanted hair and achieve permanent hair removal in both men and women. Laser treatment has a high success rate and is mostly pain-free. However, you can prepare for laser hair removal to improve your results and reduce skin irritation by taking a few key steps. Preparation includes avoiding skincare products and sun exposure and shaving before your appointment.
It is important to remember that a select few medications are not compatible with laser hair removal treatments, and your appointment should not be scheduled until you are no longer taking the medication and have waited for a specified period after use, depending on the medication this can be 2 weeks, up to 6 months.
The experienced laser technicians at Xanadu Med Spa are always happy to answer any questions you have about the laser hair removal process, whether it is right for you, and how to prepare for an upcoming treatment. If you are considering laser treatment, schedule a free consultation by calling Xanadu Med Spa at 970-591-7919.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal works by using a powerful laser to emit heat and target hair growth at the hair follicle. The laser targets hairs and uses heat to damage or destroy hair follicles to reduce or prevent unwanted hair growth.
The Laser Hair Removal Process
Laser hair removal is a versatile treatment and is safe for use almost anywhere on the body. Patients often use laser treatments on the hair on the upper lip, arms, legs, bikini line, face, back, and chin.
Multiple sessions are recommended for your first laser hair removal treatment to achieve the best results. The number of sessions you will require will depend upon your skin and hair type and the size of the area you want to treat.
Typically, patients have around 4-6 sessions in their initial course of treatment. The results can then be maintained by infrequent, minimal top-up sessions that are usually 6 to 12 months apart and decrease in frequency over time.
Preparation Before Your Treatment
To ensure your laser hair removal treatments are as successful as possible and to reduce the likelihood of skin sensitivity and irritation, there are several steps to take in preparation for your appointment. These include avoiding certain skincare products and sun exposure, stopping all hair removal other than shaving, and cleansing your skin.
Sun Exposure
Sun exposure can leave our skin incredibly sensitive, which is not what you need during a laser hair removal session. The laser uses heat to penetrate below the hair and destroy the hair follicle. If your skin has had recent sun exposure or sunburn, this can make the procedure very uncomfortable.
To prepare for your laser hair removal treatment, avoid sun exposure for 48 hours before your appointment and avoid using tanning beds for 7 days before your appointment. You should also protect your skin with sunscreen following your procedure and wait 7 days before using tanning beds.
Skincare Products
Skincare products can cover your skin and hinder the laser’s ability to target the hair during treatment. Showering before your appointment is a recommended preparatory step, however, do not apply any makeup, creams, serums, lotions, or perfumes before your appointment.
Specific skincare products should be avoided for a longer period of time before your laser appointment to minimize excess irritation during your treatment. Chemical peels, peeling skincare products, and exfoliants should be avoided for 5-7 days before your treatment. Products to avoid include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy, retinol and retinoids, and sugar and salt scrubs.
Before your appointment, you should also avoid skin-lightening products, such as hydroquinone and self-tanning products. It is also important to wait until at least 5 days after your laser treatment before you use any of these products again to allow your skin time to heal.
Cleanse
Washing and cleansing the skin before your laser hair removal treatment is recommended. This will remove any residue from creams or serums that are still on your skin and might interfere with the treatment. It is also important to remove any residual fake tan that could be on the skin.
Your laser hair removal technician will also wipe down the treatment area before the treatment starts. If you are removing hair on your underarms, you may choose not to wear deodorant as it will be wiped off.
Medication
Laser hair removal is compatible with most types of medication. However, there are a small group of medications that could cause side effects if taken while you are undergoing laser hair removal. Photosensitive medications are drugs that are affected by exposure to UV light. The medication may mean that the user’s skin is more sensitive to light, and laser hair removal could cause side effects.
Usually, side effects are mild and manifest as discomfort, swelling, and redness. However, these medications can increase the likelihood of a severe reaction, such as hyperpigmentation.
The most common photosensitive medications are acne treatments that include retinoids, some anti-inflammatory drugs, and some hormonal birth control medications. If you have any concerns about combining medication and laser hair removal, speak to a Xanadu Med Spa laser technician before your treatment.
Waxing And Plucking Hairs
For best results, it is important to stop waxing, plucking hairs, and using depilatory creams, such as Veet, for 4 to 6 weeks before your laser appointment. Laser treatment targets the follicle at the root of the hair, and waxing can make this more difficult.
Shave
At Xanadu Med Spa, we ask our patients to shave at least 12 to 24 hours before their laser hair removal treatment. As opposed to waxing and plucking, shaving keeps the pigment in the hair follicle, which makes it easier for the laser to ‘see’ the hair. Generally, the easier the laser can see the follicle, the better the results. Shaving also means the body hair is flat against the skin’s surface, which can also make it easier for the laser to detect the hair pigment.
Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing
After your laser hair removal treatment, your skin may be sensitive. As such, wearing loose and comfortable clothing that won’t irritate the area is beneficial. Similarly, you will likely have topical cream applied to the area after the treatment, and you don’t want your clothes to rub this off if possible.
When To Rearrange Your Treatment
You should re-arrange your laser hair removal appointment if your skin is irritated for any reason, particularly if you have a rash or sunburn. If you are concerned about going ahead with your treatment, contact Xanadu’s understanding expert staff, who can advise you on the best course of action and will be more than happy to re-arrange your appointment if necessary.
Who Can’t Have Laser Hair Removal?
Generally, most people can undergo laser treatment. However, treatment is usually not suitable for pregnant women, individuals on specific medications or with a history of skin cancer, or people with keloid scars.
Book Your Free Consultation With Xanadu Med Spa Today!
Laser hair removal is a popular and effective method of reducing unwanted body hair and maintaining soft, smooth skin without the need for constant shaving or waxing.
If you are considering laser hair removal and would like more information, the team at Xanadu Med Spa is happy to help. You can schedule a free consultation to find out if the treatment is right for you. During your consultation, Xanadu’s experienced staff will talk you through the laser hair removal process and how to prepare for your treatment. Contact us today to book by calling 970-591-7919.