Your Guide to Preparing for Laser Hair Removal

How do I prep for a laser hair removal treatment?

Laser hair removal is a popular method for achieving smooth, hair-free skin. However, to ensure the best results and a safe experience, there are specific guidelines you should follow before your appointment. Here’s a detailed look at how to prepare for laser hair removal from several weeks before up to the day of your treatment.

Six Weeks Before Your Treatment

• Stop Alternative Hair Removal Methods: To prepare for laser hair removal, it’s important to stop waxing, using hair removal creams, tweezing, electrolysis, and hair bleaching six weeks before your appointment. Why? Because these methods can interfere with the laser’s ability to target hair follicles effectively​​​​.

Two Weeks Prior

• Avoid Sun Exposure & Artificial Tanner: Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds, spray-tans, and self-tanners. Sun-exposed skin can affect the treatment’s effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. Use sunblock (minimum SPF 30) and wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and oversized sunglasses if you need to be outdoors​​​​.

Three Days Before

• Stop Topical Prescriptions: Any topical prescription products on the areas to be treated with the laser should be discontinued. These products can potentially react with the laser treatment, leading to complications​​​​.

The Day Before

• Shaving is Essential: Shave the treatment area the day before your appointment, following the direction of hair growth. Use a clean razor to avoid irritation. Close trimming with scissors or a facial hair trimmer is acceptable ​​​​for facial areas with fine hair. Remember that the closer the shave, the better the laser can target the hair follicle.

On the Day of Treatment

• No Makeup or Skincare Products: Ensure that the treatment area is free of makeup, deodorant, lotion, sunscreen, or any other products. These substances can affect the laser’s interaction with the skin. If you forget, we’ve got you covered — we can give you cleansing wipes before your treatment.

Additional Considerations

• Inform About Medical Changes: It’s essential to notify your clinician about any changes in your medical history, including new diagnoses, pregnancies, or medications. Some conditions and medications may not be compatible with laser treatments​​.
• Manage Cold Sores: If you have a history of cold sores, especially for treatments around those areas, take an antiviral medication 24-48 hours before and continuing for 3-5 days post-treatment is advised to prevent outbreaks​​.
• Tattoo Considerations: If you have tattoos on or near the treatment area, it is super important that you inform your clinician. You will need to cover them with a physical barrier during the treatment, which we can help you do.

Set yourself up for success

Good preparation is key to achieving the best results from your laser hair removal treatment. By following these guidelines, you can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize potential risks. Remember, the effort you put into preparing for your laser hair removal session significantly impacts the outcome. So, ensure you’re all set for a smooth and successful experience!

Want to learn more about laser hair removal and what it can do for you? Reach out to one of our treatment specialists here.