Laser Hair Removal Aftercare Practices

Laser Hair Removal is a very safe procedure when performed by a trained skin professional in a clean environment. However, you can expect side effects such as mild irritation, itching, or skin swelling. To ensure these side effects are mild and, and will gradually subside in the hours following your session, make sure you follow these best aftercare practices.

First 24 Hours

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes

On the day of your laser appointment and during your whole treatment day wear loose-fitting clothes This way you avoid friction and skin irritation, as the hair follicles often retain heat from the laser for a few hours or days after the laser hair removal treatment.

Apply Cool Compresses

If you experience irritation and/or swelling, apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a dry cloth to soothe pain. Keep the compress on the treatment area for 5-10 minutes several times a day until the side effects subside.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water, as this will help your body to regulate its temperature.

First 48 Hours

Use Cool or Lukewarm Water

Hot water can further irritate the skin after a laser hair removal treatment. Use only cool or lukewarm water when you shower and wash your face to avoid skin irritation.

Avoid the Sun & the Heat

Like hot water, the sun and heat can burn and irritate the skin after laser hair removal so avoid both for several days. So it is advised to avoid direct heat including UV rays, steam rooms, hot tubs, and working out. If you do spend time outdoors, make sure you apply an SPF 45 or higher sunscreen to the exposed areas.

No Lotions with Perfumes and Fragrances

Makeup, perfumes, and fragrances are harsh on the skin and may cause redness and discoloration if used after a laser hair removal treatment. Avoid products with these ingredients, including underarm deodorant.

Keep the Area Dry

Sweat contains bacteria that can cause damage to your freshly lasered skin, so don't take the chance by avoiding exercise.

Don't Get Bussy

If you had an intimate laser hair removal treatment, it would be better to avoid sex for 48 hours after your appointment, as sweat and the bacteria that thrive in the sweaty skin and friction can cause damage to your freshly lasered skin.>

Avoid Body Scrubs

Body scrubs contain abrasive components that exfoliate the skin might cause redness and irritation when the skin is sensitive. Wait until your skin has healed before you use body scrubs (approximately 48 hours after your service). When your skin feels normal again, I encourage you to gently exfoliate the treated area.

Skip Swimming

Sea, lakes, and rivers harbor bacteria, while swimming pools contain chlorine, that can irritate the skin. Wait at least 48 hours before going for a swim.

First Two Weeks

Avoid Skin Treatments

Though minimally invasive, Chemical Peels, LED Facials, Microneedling, Mesotherapy, Microdermabrasion, and any additional laser treatments are too harsh on the skin after a laser hair removal. Wait about two weeks before you schedule any of these treatments.

Say No to Tanning Lotions

After a laser hair removal treatment, the skin is sensitive and needs time to heal. Don’t apply self-tanners for several days to avoid burns, rashes, bumps, and irritation.

During Your Laser Journey

Only Shave

If you need to get rid of any hair you can shave during your laser treatment period. I strongly recommend not to wax, tweeze, or epilate the treated areas.

Immediately after the treatment, you can also shave, but wait until any redness, swelling, and itching are gone, immediately after your laser session.

Always Protect

Wear SPF 45 or higher, preferably with Zinc on the treated skin for the entire treatment period.

Say No to Chemical Exfoliants

Avoid using any ingrown hair serums and any chemical exfoliants, like Glycolic, Salicylic Acid, or Retinols throughout your entire laser hair removal journey.

Keep it Regular

Most people need at least six Laser treatments to achieve long-lasting results. The sessions need to be spaced four to six weeks apart for optimal results unless I have advised you otherwise.

Questions?

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