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Laser Hair Removal Pre and Post Care Instructions

Understanding the importance of pre and post care instructions is paramount for achieving optimal results. Pre-instructions set the foundation for success, while post care ensures the longevity and enhancement of your efforts.

  • **NOTE: Laser hair removal will work best on brunette and black hairs because these have a sufficient amount of pigment to be targeted by a laser. The lighter the hair (blonde, red, white), the less pigment it holds. Laser hair removal may not always work on faired hair people because there may not be enough melanin in the hair to target.**

    • Hair should be cleanly shaven within 24 hours of your appointment. WE DO NOT SHAVE ON SITE, if the areas getting treatment are not shaved, we will have to reschedule your appointment. Longer, thinner hairs are more likely to be in the laser’s path, so shaving before your appointment will help minimize the risk of burns and reduce the amount of time the laser is in contact with your skin. We do not shave onsite during your appointment because shaving too soon before laser hair removal can cause burns and increase sensitivity/discomfort to the laser.

    • Do not wear makeup on the treated area the day of treatment

    • No sun-tanning or self-tanners 4 weeks prior to treatment

    • Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun exposure, etc.

    • Some medications or supplements increase the risk burning. You may not be on Antibiotics or steroids within 4 weeks of your appointment. 

    • You may not get laser if you have been on Accutane or immunosuppressants in the past 6 months

    • No waxing, plucking or tweezing at least 4 weeks prior to treatment

    • Some body parts may require a longer wait time

    • Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 2 weeks prior to treatment (tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, etc)

    • Notify clinic with any changes to your health history or medications since your last appointment

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    • Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen

    • Redness and perifollicular edema (looks like a rash/bug bites) are common and resolve with time

    • Bruising and swelling are less common but may occur and will resolve with time

    • Hair may take up to 2 weeks to fall out

    • Avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 1-2 days

    • Avoid skin irritants (examples below) a few days post-treatment. Products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, etc.

    • Do not wax or pluck between treatments

    • Notify clinic of any concerns (blistering, excessive redness/swelling, etc.)

    • Hair removal requires a series of treatments. The number of treatments depends on body location and type of hair. Consult with clinic about when to resume skin care regime.

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