So you have a laser hair removal appointment coming up, and you want to be sure that you prepare for it in the best way possible. While you may have already consulted with your specialist, there are still some things you would need to keep in mind that they have not mentioned. Or you may not realise the importance of these things. Keep reading below to learn more about what to do before and after a laser hair removal session.
1. Shave the Treatment Area
This may seem counterintuitive, but shaving before your laser hair removal session is important. Shaving helps to remove the dead surface layer of skin, which can help the laser to target the hair follicles better.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure
It's important to avoid sun exposure before your treatment, as this can make the skin more sensitive to the laser. If you must be in the sun, wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
3. Avoid Other Hair Removal Methods
If you've been waxing or using depilatory creams, stopping these treatments at least two weeks before your laser hair removal session is best. This will help to ensure that the hair follicles are free of debris, which can help the laser work more effectively.
4. Arrive Freshly Bathed
Be sure to bathe or shower before your treatment, as this will help to remove any oils or makeup from the skin. This will also help to make the treatment more comfortable.
5. Wear Comfy Clothing
You'll want to wear comfortable clothing that won't irritate the skin. Loose-fitting clothing is ideal, as it will allow your skin to breathe.
What to Do After My Laser Hair Removal Session?
Now that your treatment is done, what next? Below are what you should be doing within different time frames after the session.
● Immediately After Your Treatment
Immediately after your laser hair removal, your skin may appear red and irritated. This is normal and will usually subside within a few hours. You may also experience some mild swelling, but this should go away within a few hours.
It's important to avoid touching or rubbing the treated area immediately after your treatment. Doing so could irritate the skin and cause further swelling.
● Within the First 24 Hours
You should avoid heat exposure within the first 24 hours after your treatment. This means no saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, or sun exposure. Heat exposure can cause further irritation and swelling.
You should also avoid vigorous exercise, which can lead to further irritation. If you must exercise, wear loose-fitting clothing that won't rub or irritate the treated area.
● Within the First Week
Within the first week after your treatment, you should avoid using products containing alcohol, perfumes, or other harsh chemicals. These products can irritate the skin and cause further swelling.
You should also avoid shaving or waxing the treated area. Shaving can cause ingrown hairs, while waxing can remove the top layer of skin, leading to further irritation. If you must shave the treated area, use a sharp, clean razor and avoid shaving against the grain.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is a popular choice for those looking for a long-term solution to hair removal. It uses a concentrated beam of light to target the melanin in the hair follicle, destroying the follicle. This treatment is safe for most skin types, though those with dark skin may require more treatments to see results. It is important to consult with a clinician or other skin specialist to determine if laser hair removal is right for you.
If you are seeking the best laser hair removal treatment in Point Cook, you can visit Advanced Laser Clinic. Aside from laser hair removal, we also offer other non-invasive cosmetic procedures like skin tightening, face lifting and more. Book an appointment with Advanced Laser Clinic today!