Laser hair is one of the safest and most effective ways of removing unwanted body hair, but like any treatment of this nature, sensible aftercare is essential for your comfort and wellbeing. Read our guide below to find out how you can best prepare your skin for treatment and then look after the areas that you’ve just had lasered. It’s important to make sure you take the best care of yourself.
Before your laser hair removal treatment
Before your laser hair removal treatment you should avoid sunbathing and tanning for at least two weeks, and also avoid fake tanning products for at least seven days. Also don’t undertake chemical peels and other types of laser treatment to the areas for at least two weeks before your appointment.
The power of ice
Applying a cold pack or a cool towel to any area of skin where you’ve had laser hair removal will help to cool the surface, reduce redness and minimise any burning sensations or skin irritation. Some redness and irritation is quite normal after laser hair removal treatment and this simple step can go a long way to easing any discomfort you might be feeling.
Sooth the irritation
Your practitioner will be able to recommend a suitable cream for soothing any redness and irritation after your laser treatment. Aloe, calamine or hydrocortisone creams may be helpful.
Minimise the use of chemical products on lasered skin
While your skin is still irritated after laser hair removal, it is wisest to steer clear of any products that could inflame it further. For this reason, it’s best to avoid anything containing a high level of chemicals, such as deodorant, some skin creams, perfumes and the like. Treatments such as chemical peels should be avoided for at least two weeks after your laser hair removal appointment.
Use a sun protection product
If any of your skin will be exposed to the sun after you’ve had laser hair removal, we would definitely advise the use of a high sun protection factor. The last thing you need is additional burning, and a sun block will protect your skin from unwanted pigmentation, irritation or rashes. Better still, stay out of the sun for 24 hours after laser hair removal and certainly don’t sunbathe for a at least a week.
Keep your face clean
If you’ve had laser hair removal on your face and the area is looking red, you might be tempted to try to cover it with makeup. However, we would recommend that you avoid the use of makeup for at least 24 hours after laser hair removal to allow your pores to breath. The last thing you want to do with irritated skin is clog the pores with foundation or powder.
Exfoliate
Some time after treatment, it’s wise to exfoliate the treated areas to prevent the risk of ingrown hairs.
If you have any questions regarding the preparation for laser hair removal or about aftercare for your skin, please talk to your practitioner who will be able to give you personalised advice.
