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5 Things to Know Before Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment

 

For many people, removing unwanted hair is a real struggle. Yes, using a razor blade is simple, but the hair grows back too fast. Waxing treatments and epilators have longer-term effects, but using them is a pain—literally. Additionally, improper body hair removal can lead to ingrown hair, which can be even more annoying.

Luckily, there is a better (and less painful) alternative for removing body hair, and that is laser hair removal. You get the satisfaction of smooth skin without having to worry about ingrown hairs or shaving nicks and cuts. Still, to get the most out of the treatment, you need to be prepared. This article will tell you everything you need to know before getting a laser hair removal treatment at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center.

 

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is one of the most efficient methods of removing unwanted hair. It sends short UV light beams straight into the follicle, destroying it and preventing more hair from growing.

 

These are the benefits you can enjoy with a laser hair removal treatment: 

  • Long-term hair removal
  • Little discomfort during the process 
  • Low-maintenance treatment 
  • Quick hair removal sessions
  • Smooth skin without razor bumps or ingrown hairs 

 

The good news is that most people getting laser hair removal can enjoy its effects for years, sometimes even permanently. However, depending on your skin type, you may need to schedule a touch-up every few years. Regardless, it is a better alternative to shaving every few days or waxing every few weeks.

 

Things to Know Before You Get a Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Going in for laser hair removal can be the solution to achieving smooth skin. However, to avoid potential side effects, here are a few things you should know or do before getting this kind of treatment. 

 

1. Shave the Treatment Area Before the Appointment

As mentioned, the laser goes through your hair follicle and destroys it, preventing it from growing in the future. However, the more hair you have, the more time it will take for the light to reach the follicles. 

 

By shaving the night before the treatment, you only keep the part that the laser hair removal professional needs: the follicle. This way, the light will go straight to the source, without being weakened by its travel through the rest of the hair. 

 

2. Do Not Get a Wax in the Two Weeks Leading Up to the Appointment

We did say that you should shave before the treatment, but you should definitely not wax, pluck, or use a depilatory on the treatment area for two weeks before your appointment. When you shave with a razor, you remove the excess hair, but not the follicle, which allows the laser light to “kill” the follicle and prevent it from regenerating.

 

However, when you wax or use an epilator, you remove the hair follicle entirely. This means that the laser will have nothing to target, and the treatment will not be as effective. The hair follicles regenerate after they are plucked out, but this can take a week or longer (depending on your hair’s life cycle), extending your waiting time between the laser sessions.

 

3. Exposure to Direct Sunlight Should Be Avoided for at Least Two Weeks

After you’ve had your laser hair removal session, it’s important to avoid going out in direct sunlight. That’s because the skin is extra sensitive after receiving a strong burst of light straight in the follicle. So, going out into the sun can cause adverse effects, including burns and hyperpigmentation. 

 

While this doesn’t mean you should lock yourself in the house, it does mean that you should be cautious. Laser removal can easily be done in the summer, but it’s important that you make sure to cover the area when you’re out and about. If walking in shaded areas is not possible, simply wear breathable, loose clothing that can protect you from direct sunlight. 

 

4. No Intentional Tanning, Sunbeds, or Tanning Products on the Treated Areas

Just like you should avoid direct sunlight, tanning is also a no-no. We know that the reason you got your hair removed is to have glowing skin on those endless summer days. Still, you may want to take it one step at a time. As tempting as tanning may seem when you see your skin looking so smooth, you should wait at least three days before enjoying the sun on your skin. Take a break from tanning beds, as well. 

 

Once your skin heals, you can do as much sunbathing as you want—with the appropriate sun protection, of course.

 

Self-tanners should also be avoided. They may not use UV light, but their formula may still be irritating to the skin. Your skin needs time to heal, so you should only use mild and protective moisturizers on it. 

 

5. Wear SPF Daily to Protect Your Skin

While you should stay away from self-tanners, sunscreen is a must. In general, sunscreen should be a crucial part of your skincare routine, but it’s even more important after you get laser hair removal. After this treatment, your skin is much more sensitive to sunlight, absorbing it like a sponge. This makes it more susceptible to sun damage.

 

Exposure to UV rays is also believed to be the cause of 80% to 90% of skin cancers. Since your skin is already sensitive, you put yourself at even more risk by not taking precautions. So, stock up on your favorite SPF and protect your skin.

 

Quick Recap! 

Laser hair removal can be a very efficient way to get rid of unwanted hair, but you need to take some precautions before starting your treatment. Remember: shave, but don’t wax, avoid direct sunlight and tanning for at least a few days and wear SPF daily.

 

To learn more about laser hair removal, you may contact Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center in Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale at 561-886-0970. We will make sure to answer all of your questions. You may also use our contact form to get in touch with us.