Laser Hair Removal – Dos and Don’ts

Laser hair removal is one of our most popular treatments for safely and effectively reducing hair growth. Suitable for both men and women, laser hair removal not only improves a patient’s appearance but also gives newfound confidence. Plus, you can say “goodbye” to that razor, once and for all!

So, if like many of our patients, you’re considering a course of hair removal treatment, here are some handy tips to help you prepare for and get the most out of your sessions…

Put down the tweezers!

As tempting as it may be to pinch, pluck or trim those hairs away, removing hairs in this way prior to your appointment will actually have a detrimental effect on your treatment results!

The hair growth cycle consists of 3 main stages: Anagen (growing), Catagen (transition) and Telogen (resting). During laser hair removal, hairs in the Anagen, growing stage, of cycle are targeted. So, by removing hairs with tweezers or epilation, the growth cycle is disrupted. In addition to this, our lasers are attracted to the pigmentation of the hair under the skin– so if you are removing the hair fully with tweezers it leaves the laser nothing to target.

Pick up the depilatory cream

Yes. Depilatory creams or razors should be used to properly prepare the treatment area 1-2 days before your appointment. This ensures the hair is still firmly rooted in the follicle and able to absorb the laser energy effectively!

Prep the skin

Thoroughly cleansing the skin prior to your appointment is really important. Deodorants, perfumes, makeup or moisturisers can have an impact on your treatment so avoid applying these if you can prior to your session.

You can also gently exfoliate the skin 1-2 days before your treatment. By removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, you can enhance the absorption of laser energy. Think of it like cleaning a dirty window to let the sun shine through (metaphorically speaking)!

Sun safety and tanning

Speaking of the sun, it’s important to avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks before AND 2 weeks after treatment as well as avoiding the use of tanning products. This reduces the risk of any adverse effects during and following your laser treatment. If sun exposure is unavoidable, ensure you are wearing a broad-spectrum SPF 50 at all times.

Skincare swaps

Using the same 2-week timeframe, it is crucial that skin irritants such as retinol, benzyl peroxide, AHA/BHA or Vitamin C products are stopped. Medication that is photosensitive must also be stopped during this time to avoid skin sensitivity or irritation.

Dress for comfort

Dress comfortably! Loose fitting clothing will allow for easy removal where necessary and will ensure that post treatment, there is no uncomfortable rubbing of clothing on the skin or transfer of cooling products.

Not sure? Call us!

Last but not least….if in doubt, get in touch!
Following treatment, your practitioner will give you aftercare advice. However, it’s important to check in with the clinic if you are unsure of anything or have any concerns. We are always delighted to hear from you and are always at the end of the phone to address any of your concerns.