Laser hair removal is fast becoming the new alternative to achieving hairless and smooth skin. Although there are many options when removing unwanted hair, laser hair removal offers a longer effect compared to others.
Prepping the body so you can confidently wear a revealing swimsuit becomes a priority as summer approaches. But before you head to a medical spa, you need to be mindful of the things to do before and after the procedure. Doing so will give you a better experience and produce more satisfactory results at the end of the day.
Things To Do Before Laser Hair Removal
If you decide to undergo laser hair removal, note that you can't have it done on the spot as preparations must be made. First, you need to book an appointment with professionals that offer this service, like Michelle Esthetics They will give detailed instructions on what to do before the procedure, such as the following:
Avoid direct sunlight for at least two weeks before your scheduled treatment. If you can't avoid sun exposure, cover the area to be treated or use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
Avoid skincare products that contain retinoids, hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. These potent ingredients can affect the pigmentation of the skin, causing either darkening or lightening. In some cases, it may result in redness.
For four to six weeks before the treatment, refrain from plucking, threading, waxing, or other types of hair removal Shaving is allowed because it leaves the root intact. Bleaching the hair should also be avoided. It's essential to preserve the hair's root and pigment for the best results.
Skipping all forms of tanning six weeks before the process is likewise critical. Whether natural tanning from the sun or using spray tans, self-tanning products, or tanning beds, it's best to avoid these to prevent issues of long-term pigmentation.
On the day you'll have your laser hair removal treatment done, don't wear makeup or apply cream or lotion on the area to be treated. Moisturizers, lotions, and oils can prevent access to the root.
Furthermore, you should not apply deodorant because it leaves a residue that reduces the effectiveness of the hair removal process.
Don't forget to shave the day before your treatment. Unlike other hair removal methods, shaving keeps the root in place. Also, this process encourages the hair follicle to start growing.
Take a shower before your appointment to remove dirt and oil from the area to be treated.
Things To Do After Laser Hair Removal
Redness in the treated area is normal. To relieve discomfort and avoid side effects, follow these post-treatment care instructions:
In the days following your treatment, avoid exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays and any form of tanning treatment . Exposure to either of these can irritate your skin and complicate further sessions of laser hair removal.
Right after the treatment, the area where the treatment was carried out will be sensitive. Therefore, avoid scratching or rubbing the area to prevent irritating the skin. Do not peel any crusts. Also, avoid exfoliation for at least a week after treatment.
Stay away from anything hot in the days that follow your treatment. Hot baths and showers, saunas, and steam baths are a no-go for you. The same applies to products that can generate heat upon contact with the skin due to their chemical composition, such as bleaching cream, perfumes, or chlorinated water. All of these can irritate the treated area, making subsequent appointments complicated.
Do not wear tight clothing around the treated area for three days after the treatment. It's advisable to wear loose clothing to allow the affected area to breathe and avoid the risk of skin irritation.
Take note of the instructions given by your laser professional to make your laser hair removal worth it. For proper care of the treated area, keep it clean and dry. It's also advisable not to wear makeup or use deodorant, lotion, or moisturizer for the first 24 hours after laser hair removal. In addition, avoid strenuous physical activity for two days after the treatment.
Be sure to follow all post-treatment care instructions to the letter to avoid skin irritation and pigment changes.
Conclusion
For the best results with laser hair removal, you'll need roughly two to six appointments that can be spaced based on your needs. You'll enjoy a hairless summer without a hitch with proper care before and after the procedure.
