Dos & Don'ts on How to Make The Most Out of Your Laser Hair Removal Appointments

So you’ve thought about it, done your research and have had one or two consultations and have finally come to the decision to start your laser journey and get rid of body hair once and for all. Whether you’re starting with a small area, or going all out- this is a list of things to help you be prepared, informed and make the most out of every single session for the best results on every single appointment.

Let’s start of with some important Do’s and Don'ts:

1. DO NOT use any type of epilation during the entire course of treatment, as the hair root needs to be intact for the laser to target it. Unlike electrolysis, you do not have to let the hair grow out, on the contrary, it’s best if you’re freshly shaved on the day of your laser appointment. It’s best to shave 24 to 48hrs before the appointment, and there’s no limit to how often you can shave in between sessions, as long as you give your skin a break of 2 or 3 days right after your session to avoid irritation.
2. DO start shaving at least 1 to 2 months before your first appointment. Especially if you have been waxing/ tweezing or sugaring your hair for a while before you start your laser sessions.
3. DO wear loose, comfortable clothes to your appointments. Avoid leggings and tights that will rub against your skin and might cause further irritation.
4. DO NOT tan or get direct and prolonged sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before your appointment. It’s best if you avoid exposing the areas you laser to the sun all together, throughout the entire course of treatment, but if you find yourself in the sun, make sure to always protect with SPF 30+ and wear protective clothing like hats, etc.
5. DO re-apply sunscreen if you’re out in the sun for longer than 2 hours.  
6. DO NOT use tanning spray tans, self-tanners and tanning beds when you choose to commit to laser hair removal. If you have plans on going away and staying in the sun, always let your laser technician know so you can plan your sessions around your vacation.
7. DO stay consistent with your appointments. Consistency will help you yield the most permanent results. Simply follow your laser tech’s advice when it comes to scheduling your appointments and show up prepared. 
8. DO NOT get tattoos on areas you are planning to laser later on. Laser hair removal cannot be performed over tattoos.
9. DO NOT take any antibiotics, or any kind of photosensitizing medication for at least 2 weeks before your appointment and during the entire course of treatment. Always let your laser tech know if there are any changes in your health or medications to ensure safe sessions.
10. DO NOT hide your medical history from your skin expert. In order to ensure that laser is safe for you, your laser technician will need to know specific things about your health history.  Some of the contraindications to laser hair removal include:

• Pregnancy / breastfeeding
• History of keloid scars
• Active Skin Infections
• Immunosuppressants/ use of Accutane within 6 months
• Photosensitizing medication
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy

If you have any questions about health concerns and medication, always advise your family doctor. 

For laser hair removal Post-Care:

1. Right after your session treat your skin as if you have a sunburn. Avoid harsh exfoliation, excess sweating/ intense workouts, and saunas, pools or hot tubs for 48 to 72hrs. 
2. Always protect your skin from the sun. Be diligent with your sunscreen and sun protection.
3. And once again, stay consistent with your appointments. Always pre-book your next session the day of your appointment to make sure you stay on track with your sessions. Although you might be seeing results within just the two sessions, it’s important to stay consistent and keep going back every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the area. Targeting that hair consistently during the growth stage is what will help you achieve permanency. Once you have completed at least 6-10 sessions, you can go back for your occasional touch-ups when needed. 
4. Be patient! Every skin and hair type is different. Darker skin tones and lighter/ finer hair will require more sessions. Hormonal hair growth can be tricky and might also take a few more sessions to tackle, but the difference you will see will definitely be worth it. 

For more information on darker skin tone and laser hair removal read our blog here.

Use these tips as your guide to smooth, glowing and hair-free skin, so you can make every session count. It is, arguably, one of the best investments you could make for your self-care. Book your complimentary consultation today, and be hair-free for summer 2024.