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Richmond,VA
Laser Hair Removal Pre and Post Care
Laser hair removal is a great alternative to traditional hair removal methods. Patients can enjoy smooth, silky skin without the hassle of daily shaving, waxing, and plucking. To prepare for your laser hair removal, here is everything you need to know about pre- and post-care instructions.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal uses laser-generated heat to destroy the hair follicles and allows for permanent hair reduction. This damage occurs when the pigmentation in the hair shaft absorbs the laser energy. Laser hair removal can significantly reduce or permanently prevent hair growth in a variety of areas. Popular treatments include the legs, arms, bikini area, back, stomach, and underarms.
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
To prepare your skin and your body for a safe laser hair removal treatment, these are a few steps you should take:
- 4 weeks before – stop waxing, tweezing, and threading the area
- 2 weeks before – stop using self-tanner and spray tan
- 3 days before – avoid sun exposure since sunburned skin cannot be treated
- 24 hours before – do not drink more than two alcoholic beverages; shave the treatment area
- Day of treatment – do not apply lotion, deodorant, or makeup to the treatment area
What to Expect Post-Care
Mild Skin Irritation
Skin redness and irritation similar to sunburn are common after laser hair removal. Skin bumps and crusting are also possible. This sunburned feeling would not last longer than a few hours but can be alleviated with a cold compress if sensitivity persists.
Hair Shedding
The dead hairs will begin to shed 5-30 days after laser treatment. Hair shedding can be sped up by exfoliating the skin with a washcloth and gentle exfoliant once the treatment area has healed. As the hair sheds, it may look like new hair growth but this is actually the treated hairs pushing their way out of the hair follicles in the pores of the skin.
Protect the Skin
To prevent further skin irritation and possible skin damage, do not pick or scratch at the healing skin. Sun exposure should also be avoided for 2 months with the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF. If there is crusting, use an antibiotic cream. Waxing, tweezing, and threading should be avoided during the entire course of laser treatments. You can shave after a few days if hair stubble begins to show.
Results Take Time
Laser hair removal can take 6-9 sessions depending on the rate of hair growth for each patient. The wait is worth it because patients can expect smooth skin without any stubble once they have completed their series of treatments.
Laser Hair Removal in Richmond, VA
Now is a great time to start laser hair removal in preparation for the summer. Schedule your consultation today with one of our Master Estheticians at DWH Health & Wellness Medspa – we look forward to meeting you!
