How to Prep for Laser Hair Removal
If you’re ready for a more carefree summer with a hassle-free approach to hair removal, we’ve got the solution for you at Polished Med Spa. We would love to help you ditch the endless cycle of shaving, waxing, and plucking with the best way to permanently remove unwanted hair: laser hair removal.
Even though it’s not beach weather yet - now is actually the perfect time to get started with laser hair removal! It’s not a ‘one and done’ procedure. Most people require multiple treatments for best results – and staying OUT of the sun is key post-treatment. We recommend getting started soon so you can enjoy clear, smooth skin when it’s time for summer attire and pool days.
Let’s go over a quick review of how laser hair removal works, how to best prep for your treatment, and what to expect afterwards.
What is Laser Hair Removal and How Can it Help me?
Here at Polished MedSpa – we use BroadBand Light (BBL)™ - an innovative light-based technology that uses pulses of light energy to gently penetrate the skin. This light is delivered through our fast and efficient technology: Forever Bare BBL™
This laser light destroys unwanted hair follicles without harming the surrounding skin, preventing the hair from growing back again.
Our clients use laser hair removal to take care of unwanted hair in a variety of areas. We can cover large areas, such as the back and chest, and small areas – like the chin or ears. Here are all of the different treatment areas you may want to consider permanent hair removal:
Small areas: chin, upper lip, cheeks, jawline, sideburns, ears, fingers, toes, and belly button
Medium area: full face, underarms, back of the neck, inner thighs, and bikini line extended
Large area: lower or upper leg, lower or upper arm, chest, abdomen, full bikini, full buttocks
Extra large area: full arms, full legs, full back, chest and abdomen
Laser Hair Removal Preparation
A little preparation will set you up for the best success with your laser hair removal treatment. Here is what we recommend to get started:
Book an Appointment with Us
First off, set up a consultation with us at Polished Med Spa. During your initial appointment, we’ll review your skin type, hair color, and medical history to determine if laser hair removal is the best solution for you. We’ll also discuss your expectations and the treatment process in detail. Most people require 6-8 treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Avoid Sun Exposure Prior to your Appointment
It’s best to avoid tanning beds and sun exposure for several weeks prior to your first laser hair removal treatment. Be diligent with your sun protectant use!
Shave the Treatment Area
Prior to your laser session, shave the treatment area. This ensures that the laser energy targets the hair follicles beneath the skin’s surface rather than the hair above it. Avoid waxing, plucking, or using depilatory creams, as these methods remove or could damage the hair follicle. The laser targets the pigment in the hair, so if you’ve damaged the follicle the treatment won’t work!
Avoid Harsh Products
Refrain from using products that may irritate your skin, such as retinoids, salicylic acid, exfoliating scrubs, or harsh cleansers for at least one week before your treatment. These products can increase skin sensitivity and potentially cause adverse reactions during laser hair removal.
Arrive with Clean Skin
Don’t use any cream, oil, deodorant, makeup, or sunscreen on the treatment area. Also, stop using self-tanning treatments for about 2 weeks prior to your appointment.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment. Hydrated skin tends to respond better to laser therapy and may experience fewer side effects such as redness or swelling.
Laser Hair Removal Recovery
Luckily, you won’t need to make any significant alterations to your daily life as there are no strict downtime or restrictions post-treatment.
The most important thing to do after laser hair removal is to cover up and avoid the sun for at least 7 days! Your skin will be more sensitive afterwards, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen if you’ll be outside, and consider additional clothing to cover up.
You may experience some slight swelling or redness, and if you do – this will resolve in a matter of hours. Cold compresses can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
Some additional post-treatment tips? Keep the treated area moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to prevent dryness and promote healing. Avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances, as they may irritate the skin (same ones you avoided pre-treatment!)
Ready to move into warmer weather with clear, beautiful skin? We’ll help you ditch the razors for good and take one more thing off your to-do list this summer. Book an appointment and let’s get started!