Getting rid of unwanted hair can be a frustrating process. If you’re tired of constantly shaving or enduring painful waxing sessions, laser hair removal offers a long-term solution with smooth, lasting results. But to get the most out of this treatment, preparation is key.
Laser hair removal works by targeting the melanin (pigment) in your hair to destroy the follicle and prevent future growth. For this process to be effective and safe, your skin must be in the right condition. Proper preparation helps prevent burns, irritation, or discoloration, and ensures the laser accurately targets the hair follicle, maximizing the hair reduction you’ll see over time.
At the Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads in Williamsburg, VA, we want you to experience the safest, most effective laser hair removal possible. Whether you’re preparing for your first session or you’re returning for a series of treatments, this guide covers the most important steps to take before your appointment. Read on to learn how to prepare your skin before laser hair removal.
Stay Out of the Sun
You must avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks before your appointment. Recently tanned or sunburned skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation or burns from the laser. If you’ve been in the sun, your skin may also produce more melanin, which interferes with the laser’s ability to target the hair follicle. Wear broad-spectrum SPF daily, even if you’re not actively tanning. And skip tanning beds altogether, as they can dramatically increase your risk of complications.
Avoid Self-Tanners
Just like natural tanning, self-tanning products can increase melanin in your skin, making it more difficult for the laser to distinguish between skin and hair. Stop using self-tanner at least two weeks before your laser hair removal session, and exfoliate thoroughly to remove any remaining product before your appointment. If there’s any lingering self-tanner residue, the laser may scatter or react unpredictably, which could compromise your results or lead to skin irritation.
Shave the Treatment Area
You should shave the area being treated within 24 hours of your laser hair removal. Shaving removes the hair above the skin while keeping the hair follicle intact, exactly what the laser needs to be effective. Avoid using electric razors or clippers, as they may leave the hair too short. For more sensitive areas, such as the bikini line, consider shaving a day in advance to allow any minor irritation to subside before your appointment.
Stop Waxing or Tweezing
Waxing, tweezing, and plucking remove hair from the root, which prevents the laser from locating and destroying the follicle. If you’ve waxed recently, wait at least four weeks before starting laser hair removal. During your treatment series, stick to shaving only. This is especially important between sessions. If you wax or tweeze, you may remove the hair follicle the laser needs to target, which can delay your progress or interfere with your long-term results.
Pause Certain Skincare Products
Some skincare ingredients can increase your skin’s photosensitivity, making it more reactive to light-based treatments. Stop using any products containing retinol, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid for at least 2 to 3 days before your appointment and wait another 2 to 3 days after the treatment before resuming them. Using these products too close to your session can increase your risk of redness, irritation, or even burns, especially on delicate facial skin.
Clean Your Skin Before Your Appointment
Arrive at your appointment with clean, product-free skin. That means no makeup, moisturizer, lotion, oil, deodorant, perfume, or sunscreen on the treatment area. These can interfere with the laser or react with heat, potentially leading to irritation. If you forget and apply any product by accident, your provider may offer wipes to help clean the skin before starting treatment.
Choose the Right Clothing
On the day of your appointment, wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction and irritation in the treated area. Tight clothing can rub against the skin and aggravate temporary sensitivity or redness that may occur after treatment. If you’re having your bikini area treated, opt for cotton underwear and comfortable pants to help minimize discomfort after treatment.
Contact Us to Schedule Your Session
Laser hair removal can provide long-term relief from the discomfort of shaving, waxing, and ingrown hairs. But your journey to smooth, hair-free skin starts before your first appointment. By preparing properly, you help ensure your treatments are safe and effective.
At the Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads, our team is here to guide you through every step, from the preparation to aftercare, to help you achieve your desired results. If you’re ready to say goodbye to unwanted hair for good, schedule your consultation in Williamsburg, VA, today.
