8 Things You Should Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal

Unlike other skin laser treatments, hair removal requires some preparation prior to your laser hair removal treatments.

First, let’s look at how laser hair removal works. Lasers emit wavelengths that target the pigment located in the root of each hair follicle. By absorbing the light, lasers are able to destroy hair follicles without causing damage to the skin’s surface. Since each individual hair is on its own growth cycle, multiple laser treatments scheduled 8 to 10 weeks apart are required for permanent hair removal.

There are several other ways to ensure permanent hair removal. Get the best results by taking the time to do these things before your laser hair removal treatments begin.

1. Stop Waxing and Plucking

Laser hair removal works by targeting the roots of the hair, so it’s essential that you don’t wax or pluck the treated area at least four to six weeks prior to your first appointment. Shaving is okay, as it leaves the root in place. In fact, it’s actually encouraged to shave the area being targeted by lasers prior to your scheduled laser hair removal appointment. Your laser hair removal appointments will be scheduled at 8 to 10 weeks intervals, so you can resume waxing and pluck at that time. However, it’s not recommended and you will need to stop six weeks prior to your next appointment.

2. Shave the Area

Even though it’s suggested that you stop plucking and waxing the area being treated, shaving it 24 to 48 hours prior your appointment is essential. Even though your hair is invisible to the naked eye, the laser is still able to target the pigment located in the hair’s root. Shaving the area is required as it severely decreases the chance of burns with the hair being below the skin’s surface.

3. Avoid Sun Exposure

For two weeks prior to your laser hair removal, it’s important that the skin being treated is kept out of the sun. This includes both tanning beds and self-tanners. Not only can their use lead to skin discoloration after your laser treatment, but sunburn can cause excessive pain and blistering. Most laser professionals won’t even treat a client with minor sunburn and will have them reschedule their appointment. So, be sure to use sunscreen daily if the treated area can’t be covered while outside.

4. Results won’t be instantaneous

A misconception that’s often believed is that the results will be instant. Depending on your hair type, you’ll need 4-10 sessions to effectively get the most out of the laser hair removal. The growth of your hair will ultimately decide how many visits you have.

5. Put Down The Bleach

As mentioned earlier, laser hair removal works by targeting the root of hairs. Your hair pigment or color can be found in the root and absorbs the light produced by the laser; ultimately destroying the hair permanently. When you bleach your hair, it alters the pigment and makes the hair more difficult to target. Bleaching should be stopped six weeks prior to your laser hair removal treatment. Which is enough time for the hair roots to grow back in their natural color.

6. Check Your Medications

It’s important that when you speak to your laser med spa professionals that you inform them of all of the medications that you’re taking, both oral and topical. Some medications can intervene with your laser treatments, making them less effective. Other medications can make the skin sensitive and more likely to burn or blister. In case you are taking prescribed medicines, antibiotics, birth control, acne & photosensitizing medications then you need to inform your laser professional. You won’t have to stop taking your medication, but your laser professional will be able to adjust your treatment accordingly and proceed with caution. Additionally, if you begin taking any new medications you should be sure to let them know prior to your next appointment.

7. Remove Makeup or Creams

Beauty products should not be used before the laser hair removal treatment as some of the ingredients in those products can alter the effect of laser hair removal. This includes deodorant, makeup, lotions, ointments, and anything else applied topically to the area. Simply use soap and water to cleanse the skin that will be treated. If makeup remover is used, be sure to rinse the area with water afterward.

8. Irritation is to be expected

Depending on your skin sort, you may find that you irritate easily more than others. When you’re getting laser hair removal, it’s like you’re getting a tiny rubber band snapped on your skin. Because of this, you may find that you have irritation post-visit.

By following these recommendations, you will significantly reduce the risk of experiencing side effects caused by your laser treatments. These can range from mild skin irritation to burns or discoloration. In addition to this, outcomes from Laser Hair Removal treatment will be long-lasting and satisfying.

If you are located near Houston, TX and looking for a laser hair removal treatment be sure to schedule a free meetup with Blair Med Spa that will provide a free consultation and do an assessment of your hair condition & how many treatments you will need, along with which laser would suit your hair type etc. You can check us online at www.blairmedspa.com or Phone: 832-559-3114 we’ll be happy to address your queries.