10 Things You MUST Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal
Planning to banish unwanted hair forever? You certainly are not alone, given that laser hair removal has come to be ranked among the most sought after cosmetic procedures in the US for providing a long term yet low maintenance solution to hair growth. But before laser hair removal, there are several crucial things you need to understand to ensure you get the safest, most effective results. Whether you have just started or need a little bit of review, being prepared in advance is all that counts. This guide will cover everything you need to know, from skin prep tips to what you should or shouldn’t do before your treatment..
Laser hair removal related things will answer a lot about what to expect in case of side effects, good returns on investment, and a lot of overwhelm on your part. Therefore, if you are wondering what to do before laser hair removal, read on as we embark on an in depth study of the ten most important things to know before walking into that clinic.
1. Get to Know How Laser Hair Removal Functions
Laser hair removal is about using concentrated light energy to target pigment in the hair follicle. The light, once directed to the matter, is preferably absorbed by the pigment (melanin) and this conversion of light energy to heat damages the follicle just enough to prevent it from growing again. The procedure works best on light skinned people with dark hair, but advancements in technology have given rise to more universally applicable procedures on a wider range of skin types and colors.
It is important to have realistic expectations regarding what laser hair removal can achieve. While a lot of people report having a massive reduction in hair growth, rarely is it ever permanent after one session. This is almost always a process where multiple sessions are needed to catch each follicle in its growth stage. If you’re beginning your laser hair removal preparation, understanding the science behind it can help set appropriate expectations.
2. Restrict Sun Exposure for Two Weeks or Longer
It has been observed that any sun exposure prior to treatment can result in an increased probability of burns or side effects such as hyperpigmentation or irritation. Tanned skin or sun burned skin is very much sensitive and may also be deemed unfit for the treatment, thus delaying or canceling the same.
If there is a trip planned to the beach or if you spend activities outdoors, sessions should be scheduled accordingly. For the best result and fewest complications, your technician will most likely want you to avoid the sun, or at least use high SPF, broad spectrum sunscreen well in advance of the laser hair removal treatment.
3. Shave the Area of Concern 24 Hours Prior
One of the most important steps in pre laser hair removal instructions is shaving the targeted area about 24 hours before your appointment. This allows for the laser to penetrate the skin well enough without burning the surface hairs.
Do not wax, pluck, or thread for a minimum of four weeks before treatment, as these actions destroy the hair follicle the laser intends to annihilate. Shaving, on the other hand, protects the follicle while also reducing the risk of surface burns.
4. Avoid Harsh Ingredients in Your Skincare Products
If you’re focusing on your skincare before laser hair removal, ditch products that contain retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide at least a few days before treatment. These products increase skin sensitivity, and such sensitivity can set up an increased risk for irritancy or reactions.
Stick with soothing, hydrating cleanser and moisturizer that will not strip the skin of its natural barrier. You will need to communicate to the technician active ingredients in your regimen so as not to guide yourself unknowingly into a bad experience.
5. Stay Away from the Tanning Beds and Self Tanners
Whether they are natural or artificial, tanning interferes with a treatment. The skin absorbs more energy from that laser with tan skin, thus increasing the risk of burns or maybe blisters. That is why it is important not to tan or use a self tanning product as part of laser hair removal preparation.
Most clinics will require you to come in with your natural skin tone. If you have recently applied a self tanner, you may have to wait until it completely fades. It is better to get in touch with your provider in advance regarding any specific guidelines, just in case.
6. Steer Clear of Caffeine and Alcohol Beforehand
Although it does not seem to be relevant, caffeine and alcohol are some of the types of stimulants that can increase skin sensitivity. Such a condition might make the procedure feel more painful than it actually is. Therefore, avoid both at least a day ahead of the laser hair removal.
Water can help your skin to remain moist days before the appointment so that it is just right for treatment. Alcohol makes skin dehydrated thus, not very responsive to laser treatment and prone to irritation.
7. Tell All Medications and Medical Conditions.
Some medications like antibiotics, acne treatments, hormone therapies, etc., may have a photosensitizing effect on your skin; that means it is more likely to exhibit adverse effects when taken during laser treatment. So make sure that you disclose everything you are getting into the consultation process.
Your technician needs to know your full medical history, including conditions like PCOS or any hormonal imbalances that might affect hair growth. Open communication is a crucial part of following proper pre laser hair removal instructions and avoiding complications.
8. Dress Comfortably and Leave Out Makeup or Lotions
On the day of appointment you should wear loose and breathable clothing to prevent an irritation post treatment. The rubbing of tight clothing with freshly lasered skin would cause redness and discomfort. If doing facial laser hair removal then one should have a clean, makeup free face.
This is true with lotions, deodorants, and perfumes. All of these products might interfere with the effectiveness of the laser or cause adverse skin reactions. Your provider will likely cleanse the area beforehand, but arriving product free is still the best policy before laser hair removal.
9. Time Your Sessions with the Hair Growth Cycle
Sessions are most effective when the hair is in the Anagen phase of active growth. But hairs do not enter this phase simultaneously, and so the sessions must be spaced several weeks apart. This knowledge allows your technician to time your treatment sessions with your hair growth cycle. Well timed sessions will enhance long term results while minimizing the amount of sessions required. If you’re wondering what to do before laser hair removal, knowing the importance of timing is high on the list.
10. Set Realistic Expectations and Budget Accordingly
Laser hair removal is not a one trip affair. Realistically, 6 to 8 sessions will be necessary for most people to achieve the desired results, with the possibility of needing annual touch ups. Area size, geographic location, and skill level of the clinic all factor into price variability.
The results can be life changing, yet the point is to have realistic expectations. Laser hair removal may not permanently eliminate every hair, but it will drastically minimize hair density and regrowth. Having an understanding of what lies ahead is part of the smart preparation for laser hair removal.
Preparing properly before laser hair removal isn’t just about getting better results—it’s about protecting your skin and making sure your investment pays off. All the way from avoidance of the sun to ensuring the right skincare products to use, everything matters. Follow the above explained tricks, and trust me, you’ll be feeling confident, informed, and prep up for your appointment.
No matter if you’re preparing for your first laser treatment or trying to get everything on track again after a break, preparing for it isn’t that easy. With careful planning and preparation, laser hair removal can go on to become one of the best beauty decisions you’ve ever made.
