Laser hair removal is a very popular treatment. Many of us are fed up with constant shaving, painful waxing, and other time-consuming hair removal techniques that don’t last. Laser hair removal is long-lasting, it reduces the risks of ingrowing hairs, stops you from getting cuts, burns, or other skin damage associated with other kinds of hair removal, and can mean thinner hair regrowth and softer, smoother skin. If you are looking to get a laser hair removal treatment for the first time, you may be wondering what you need to do to prepare for the session. Let’s take a look.
Book a Consultation
If you are considering laser hair removal for the first time, you should book a consultation to talk through your options. Your therapist will look at your hair’s natural growth cycle to work out the best times for treatment and give you plenty of advice and information so that you know what to expect. They’ll also be able to tell you how many sessions you’ll need to get the results that you are aiming for.
If this is your first time, or you are having laser hair removal on a different area of your body, this consultation will also include a patch test, which is essential to make sure the treatment is suitable for you.
Avoid Tanning
Before any laser hair removal, it’s important to avoid any kind of tanning for four weeks. This includes the application of fake tan, as well as the use of sunbeds and even tanning naturally in the sunshine.
Protect Your Skin
You should avoid laying out in direct sunlight, as this can damage the skin, but you probably can’t avoid all sunlight for four weeks, so make sure you wear sunscreen when outdoors, even if the weather isn’t great.
Avoid Waxing or Plucking
Any hair removal that targets the follicle of the hair, such as waxing and plucking, changes the hair’s natural growth cycle, which can make laser treatment much less effective. Waxing and plucking should be avoided for at least four weeks before your appointment. You can, however, shave, as this removes the hair above the follicle.
Avoid Bleaching
Bleaching hair can make it harder for the laser to pick it out, so this should be avoided in the weeks before your appointment.
Clean the Treatment Area
On the morning of your appointment, you should clean the area thoroughly using a non-scented cleanser or soap. Then, avoid using any creams or lotions, as this can create a barrier between the laser and the hair follicle.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating before treatment is a good idea, but don’t do it too close to your appointment. Try to leave 3-4 days between even gentle exfoliating and your laser hair treatment to prevent skin irritation.
Wear Loose Clothes
After your appointment your skin may be a little more sensitive than usual, so make sure you are wearing loose clothing and soft fabrics.
There are many advantages to laser hair removal, and it’s easy to see why more people are choosing it over other hair removal methods. Making sure you are prepared can help to reduce discomfort and help you to achieve the best possible results.
