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Laser Hair Removal: Pre & Post Treatment Care
You’re tired of shaving, waxing, and plucking, and you’ve decided to opt for something longer-term. Laser hair removal provides the solution you’ve been looking for, but what do you need to do before and after your laser treatment to get the best results? Make the most of your treatment by following your cosmetic surgeon’s advice. Want to be informed ahead of time? Here’s what you’ll need to do.
Before Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment
The condition of your skin and undesired hair growth will affect how well the laser works when you go for your treatment. In the weeks leading up to your laser hair removal you will:
- Switch from waxing, threading, chemical hair removal, or plucking to shaving for the month leading up to your treatment. The laser needs hair to work on and won’t be able to destroy the roots if there’s nothing there.
- Stay out of the sun and don’t use self-tanning products for a few weeks. Two weeks is the minimum for staying out of the sun, but the lighter your skin and the darker the hair, the more effective the treatment will be.
- If your face is being treated, don’t wear makeup. Alternatively, bring your cleansing products along and cleanse thoroughly just before the treatment.
- Don’t use creams with AHA or BHA in the week before your treatment.
- See a doctor first if you have any moles or lesions in the treatment area. Be sure that the doctor knows that you plan to go for laser hair removal.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for about two hours before your treatment begins.
- Wait if you’ve had Botox or dermal filler treatment in the area to be treated. Two weeks is an adequate window.
- Wait seven days after completing a course of antibiotics. If you are taking a long course of antibiotics and still want to go for laser hair removal, discuss it with your doctor.
After Your Hair Removal Treatment
Just as you need to prepare for laser hair removal treatment, you will also need to take a little extra care afterwards.
- Don’t tan for seven days after treatment. Your skin will be extra sensitive to UV light, so stay out of the sun. Use sunblock if your skin is likely to be exposed to sunlight.
- If you develop any blisters, don’t pop them. Some people develop blisters after the treatment. Allow them to subside by themselves.
- If you experience discomfort, use an over-the-counter painkiller. You can also apply Aloe vera gel or a cool, damp cloth to ease any burning sensation.
- If you notice any prolonged reactions, consult your laser hair removal practitioner. If you are concerned about any symptoms during your recovery, consult us for advice.
- If your legs were treated, avoid wearing boots till after your recovery.
Complete the Course of Treatments
As a final word of advice, remember that you will need several treatments before you achieve permanent or near-permanent hair removal. But since you’re already asking yourself what laser hair removal will entail, why not come in for a consultation? We’ll be happy to provide you with the information you need and answer all your questions.
Consultations Available Now
Take the first step. Get your questions answered and find out which treatment option is best for your personal situation by meeting with one of our knowledgeable medical staff at Yaletown Laser Centre for an in-person consultation.
Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our experienced team members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.
