What to Expect From Laser Hair Removal Before and After Treatment
Once a procedure limited to medical offices and plastic surgery clinics, laser hair removal is now widely available, bringing semi-permanent hair reduction to more people than ever. Before you experience the transformative effects of laser technology, you’ll want to know exactly what to expect, and how to care for your skin, before and after laser hair removal. In this guide, we’re giving you our best skin prep and aftercare tips to get the most out of your laser treatments.
How does laser hair removal work?
While the before-and-after pics of your laser hair removal journey might surprise you, you’ll want to understand how the process works before diving in.
How it operates
Laser devices emit pulses of light energy that are absorbed by the melanin in hair and converted into heat, which destroys the hair follicle and inhibits future growth. This technology targets strands in the active phase of hair growth. Since all of the hairs in a given treatment area will be in different stages at any given time, it takes multiple sessions to achieve long-term hair reduction.
How the treatment process works
The treatment process begins with a consultation, where you and your provider will discuss your medical history and goals for treatment. They will perform a skin analysis to ensure their specific laser device can be used safely and effectively on your skin and hair. If you’re a good candidate, you will complete a series of treatments. It often takes six to eight sessions scheduled four to eight weeks apart for full results.
Who is a suitable candidate for laser hair removal?
The Candela GentleMax Pro laser features dual wavelengths to eliminate unwanted hair from a wider range of skin tones. However, clients with light skin and dark hair tend to achieve faster, more comprehensive results, as the device can easily distinguish between their hair and skin.
Those with particularly deep skin tones may have higher risks of adverse side effects, such as hyperpigmentation. It’s important to note that laser hair removal is not effective for hair that’s white, gray, red, or very fine.
Related: Soft Wax vs Hard Wax: What’s the Difference?
How do you prepare for laser hair removal?
You can’t enjoy the after-effects of laser hair removal without giving your skin a little extra love before treatment. Here’s how to prep your skin in the weeks leading up to each laser session:
No waxing, plucking, or electrolysis
The targeted nature of laser technology means the device must be able to identify intact hair roots within the follicles, so waxing, tweezing, and electrolysis are strictly off the table. Avoid these cosmetic procedures at least four to six weeks before laser hair removal.
Shave the treatment area
While you can’t wax before laser hair removal, shaving is a must. This will help concentrate all that light energy on the hair root to destroy as many follicles as possible.
Avoid sun exposure
UV rays can impact the safety and efficacy of laser hair removal, so sun tanning and self-tanners are off-limits as you prep your skin. Be sure to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day starting two to four weeks before laser treatments.
No harsh skincare products
Harsh topical products heighten photosensitivity and increase the risk of burns and serious discomfort. Stop using retinoids, chemical peels, and exfoliants one to two weeks prior to each session
Arrive clean and product-free
Lotions, deodorants, oils, and perfumes can all interfere with laser treatment and lead to adverse reactions. Try to shower right before your session and skip any topical products in the targeted area.
Related: What Is a Brazilian Wax and How To Prepare
What to expect after your laser hair removal treatment
Aftercare is just as important as skin prep for optimal skin health and results. Here are our top tips to care for your skin after laser hair removal, so you know what to expect before the process begins:
Immediate laser hair removal aftercare
Redness, swelling, and a warm, tingling sensation are common immediately after laser hair removal. During this time, take steps to calm inflammation, including:
Avoid heat and sweat: Skip the gym and stick to cool or lukewarm showers as your skin recovers from laser treatment.
Minimize friction: Wear loose, breathable clothing after Brazilian laser treatments and body hair sessions, as friction can increase irritation and other adverse effects.
Avoid sun exposure: Direct sun exposure is off-limits entirely. Wear protective clothing and broad-spectrum sunscreen, even when staying indoors.
Soothe your skin: A cool compress and pure aloe vera gel can relieve irritation and calm red, inflamed skin. Avoid touching the area whenever possible.
What to expect over the next few weeks
The treatment area may remain sensitive for several days after laser hair removal. Once you have fully healed, begin gently exfoliating each day to encourage shedding of targeted hairs. Moisturize regularly and continue to prioritize sun protection.
Long-term care and what to avoid
Before and after laser hair removal sessions, it’s important to avoid waxing, sun exposure, and harsh skincare products and treatments. After all, caring for your skin between sessions will only lead to better results.
Sticking to your provider’s treatment frequency recommendations is also critical. If you space out your appointments too far, you can miss the window of active growth for some hairs, leading to patchy results and a much longer treatment series.
Related: Waxing Aftercare Tips for Long-Lasting Results
Experience long-lasting, smooth skin with laser hair removal at The Wax Studio!
You don’t have to pay med spa prices for long-term hair removal. The Wax Studio offers packages that help you save with every session! Begin your journey to silky-smooth skin with a free consultation!
