Laser hair removal is a procedure that can remove face and body hair permanently. Here at Laser Skin & Vein Clinic we use the MeDioStar TM miXt 940 which features a cooling plate to reduce the risk of skin burn and discomfort. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps to prep your skin for laser hair removal before, the day of and after treatment. Keep reading to find out how!
Before Laser Hair Removal Treatment:
Avoid all hair removal methods, except shaving
Waxing, electrolysis, plucking and bleaching should not be done 3 weeks prior to your first treatment. Laser hair removal works by the pigment in the hair being absorbed by the laser light, which then heats up the follicle to destroy the hair. Using the hair removal methods mentioned (waxing, electrolysis, plucking or bleaching) removes the hair at the follicle or the hairs colour pigment and therefore treatment will be ineffective.
Shave prior to your appointment
The area being treated must be shaved 12-24 hours prior. This will ensure that the follicle is present without the hair being present. If hair is present above the skin, this can cause minor and major burns. If you arrive at your appointment without shaving, you will need to reschedule your appointment at your cost.
Avoid fake tan and sun exposure
Fake tan and sun exposure must be avoided. Fake tan and sun exposure must be avoided on the treated area for two weeks prior. If you are sunburnt or tanned, this affects treatment as pigmentation on skin can also absorb the laser light, which can then heat up and burn your skin. Treatments will need to be rescheduled if you have had sun exposure or fake tan residue present.
The Day of Laser Hair Removal Treatment:
Shower the day of your appointment
To ensure your skin is clean and free of any product, have a shower prior to your appointment. Do not apply any makeup, deodorant or lotion to the area being treated. We do provide wet wipes at our clinic to remove any product you may have forgotten to remove.
Wear loose fitted clothing
We advise our customers to wear comfortable, loose fitted clothing to avoid possible irritation post treatment. If you’re treating your legs, opt for loose fitted pants or a skirt, rather than jeans.
After Laser Hair Removal Treatment:
Avoid sun exposure
Post treatment, it is important to avoid sun exposure on the treated area. As mentioned above, sun exposure must be avoided both before and after treatment to prevent possible burns. Sunscreen with SPF 30+ must be used daily.
Avoid exercising and hot showers
It is recommended that customers avoid exercising and hot showers for at least 24 hours post treatment. After a laser hair removal treatment, your skin remains sensitive to heat and may become irritated if there is an increase in body temperature. The sweat from exercise contains bacteria which irritates the hair follicles and creates a rash and a possibility of a skin infection. All exercises which induce sweat must be avoided for 24-48 hours post treatment.
Use aftercare products
As your skin will be quite sensitive and red after treatment, it is important to listen to the aftercare instructions given. Our staff will inform you which aftercare products should be used to reduce redness, sensitivity and irritation. Along with sunscreen, soothing gel should be used to keep the skin cool and help with healing.
Products which are heavy, contain chemicals and are perfumed must be avoided post treatment for a minimum of 24 hours to avoid irritation on treated areas. Makeup is to be avoided or replaced with mineral based makeup.
Contact Us:
It is important to prep and look after your skin before, during and post treatment for the best laser hair removal experience and results. Schedule a consultation with one of our medical experts who will walk you through the treatment and what you can expect. Here at Laser Skin & Vein Clinic we love to make our customers confident and comfortable in their skin. Contact us for any other questions you may have.
