What to Avoid Before Laser Hair Removal Treatment: Dos and Don’ts

If you want hairless skin, ditch temporary options like waxing and shaving and opt for laser hair removal instead. Laser hair removal is one of the best ways to remove unwanted hair from your body in the long run. The results of this treatment are long-lasting compared to other conventional methods.

The procedure is performed at a skin clinic by the dermatologist. The doctor uses a laser device to send beams of light to the hair follicles. This process targets the pigment melanin in the hair. The light turns into heat and eventually damages the hair follicle leading to a tremendous reduction in hair growth.

Depending on your hair growth and other factors, you may require multiple sessions. This treatment has a high success rate. In some cases, it can permanently stop hair from growing.

On the first day of your appointment, the dermatologist will discuss certain considerations you must follow. Here’s the list of do’s and don’ts before hair laser removal treatment:

What to Do Before Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

Clean Your Skin

Before your laser hair removal treatment starts, make sure to clean your skin properly. Clean the treatment area with soap and water to get rid of lotions, dirt, dust, and other impurities. Make sure not to rub the area aggressively.

Shave the Skin

Unlike other methods such as waxing and plucking, laser hair removal involves shaving the skin before the procedure. You can shave the treatment area one or two days before the procedure. Shaving doesn’t uproot the hair so lasers can easily target the hair pigment. Shaving also helps decrease the chances of getting burned by the laser.

Use Medicines with Caution

If you are on medication while opting for this treatment, discuss the details of the medicine with your dermatologist. It is because some medications may interfere with the laser hair removal procedure, making your skin more sensitive and increasing the chances of side effects. Medicines such as blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, tropical products with retinol, acne products, and hormonal tablets should be taken with caution.

What Not to Do Before Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

Do not Wax or Pluck

While the dermatologist will ask you to shave the treatment area a day or two before the procedure, it is strictly advised not to wax or pluck your skin. These hair removal methods pull the hair out from the root. As a result, the laser is unable to target the hair pigment, and the procedure may not be able to deliver the best results.

Do not Go Out in the Sun

If you want to opt for laser hair removal, you must strictly avoid going out in the sun. Tanning increases the chances of laser burns because traditional lasers need a clear contrast between the hair and skin to target the pigment. If your skin has become darker due to tanning, the laser will start targeting melanin, thus increasing the side effects of this treatment.

Besides sun exposure, you should also avoid using tanning beds and self-tanning lotions or sprays for at least two weeks before your appointment.

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

It is advised not to drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your procedure as it tends to dehydrate the skin and make the procedure more painful. You must also refrain from drinking coffee for at least 6-7 hours before the treatment, as caffeine makes the skin more sensitive, leading to discomfort throughout the procedure.

Avoid Perfumes or Deodorants

The dermatologist will advise you not to apply perfumes and deodorants directly on your skin on the day of the procedure. Any scented product on the treatment area may cause skin sensitivity. In some cases, these products create a barrier on the skin which eventually minimizes the procedure’s effectiveness and may also increase the risk of infection or adverse reaction.

What to do After Laser Hair Removal?

• Apply an ice pack to the treated area to reduce pain, irritation, and discomfort.
• Apply a soothing cream comprising ingredients like aloe area for 3-4 days after the treatment.
• Keep the area clean and dry for 48 hours after the procedure.
• Wear loose clothes to avoid discomfort caused as a result of friction.
• Drink plenty of water and eat healthy.
• Avoid sun exposure for a few days after the procedure. However, if going out, use sunscreen of SPF 50 or above with zinc.
• Do not apply harsh chemicals directly to your skin, as they may make it more sensitive and cause adverse reactions.
• Avoid applying makeup on the treatment area for 48 hours.
• Do not opt for any beauty treatment for at least 72 hours after the procedure.
• Avoid hot showers for 48 hours after the procedure.

Takeaway

Laser hair removal treatment offers promising and long-lasting results. Ensure you follow all the above-listed instructions for a smooth procedure and recovery.