If laser hair removal interests you, proper preparation makes a world of difference. Understanding what to expect and readying your skin can lead to better results and comfort.
Checking the medications and makeup and skincare removal is necessary before the appointment.
If it is your first time, and you are thinking that this session is going to be painful then don’t worry. The pain of laser hair removal is very little, and its intensity depends on the skin of the person.
This article explains laser hair removal, offers pretreatment guidance, discusses appointment expectations, and suggests aftercare. Following these tips sets you up for success.
Understanding Laser Hair Removal
Lasers target hair follicles with concentrated beams to hinder regrowth. The pulses heat the roots to damage them while protecting the surrounding skin. Many devices have built-in cooling systems using air or water to protect the skin from the laser’s heat.
There are also various laser types, like diodes, Alexandrite, and Nd: YAG, that emit wavelengths based on your hair color and skin tone and type. Each has particular strengths, with certain options better suited for darker skin. You can browse InMode’s laser hair removal providers, for instance, to check which depilation solutions work best for you.
The number of sessions needed varies per individual depending on hair color and coarseness, skin areas, and genetics. Most people need about six monthly sessions for optimal results, with follow-up treatments every six to twelve months.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Like other aesthetic treatments, laser depilation takes ample preparation for the best results. Here’s how to get ready for your session:
Consultation
Your first meeting with a dermatologist, aesthetician, or laser technician allows for assessment if you’re a good candidate for laser depilation. They’ll examine your skin tone, texture, hair color, and thickness to customize settings and body areas.
This meets safety standards and ensures optimal results. They can also advise on likely outcomes and the number of sessions needed based on your growth patterns.
An initial consultation also provides you with the chance to ask questions and understand the process. Key topics to cover are types of lasers used, possible side effects, estimated appointment costs, and payment plans if offered.
You’ll also discuss preparatory steps for the best outcomes. Feel free to inquire about anything that needs to be clarified.
Interesting Fact
As the number of people who are adopting laser hair removal is increasing, the market size of this industry is also increasing. You can see the expected market size of the laser hair removal industry in the upcoming years.
Sun Exposure
Sun exposure can make your skin more reactive, increasing damage risks like burns or uneven tone. Newly treated areas stay especially sensitive to UV light, too.
So, consider wearing hats, light clothing covering your skin, and SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. Do this for one month before your appointment and between sessions when outside in the mornings and afternoons.
Also, skip the tanning bed entirely and limit direct sunlight exposure, such as sunbathing. Seek shade when possible while you’re outside. UVA/UVB penetrates clouds, so use precautions even on cloudy days.
If you can’t avoid being out, remember to reapply sunscreen regularly, usually every two hours or as directed. Following these tips prevents new damage and maintains the results of the treatment.
Hair Removal Methods
Techniques like waxing and tweezing remove the entire hair, including below-skin follicles. But lasers target the root inside pores to disable future regrowth.
So, extracting follicles ahead of time loses this key aim point needed for best success. Avoid waxing, epilating, threading, or using depilatories for a period recommended by your provider.
Shaving
If you need to remove visible hair in the interim, carefully shave using a new razor and non-irritating shave gel or cream.
Shaving the treatment area according to your provider’s instructions, often about 24 to 48 hours prior, allows the laser to target the follicles effectively.
Rinse thoroughly afterward. Avoid digging too deep into pores and irritating skin ahead of treatment.
Then, don’t shave again until after the session to allow the targeted hair to shed. Ensure no makeup, lotion, or sunscreen barriers on the skin that could interfere with laser effectiveness. If itching arises, apply a thin layer of aloe gel and avoid scratching.
Skin Care
Lasers work by generating heat energy, which can react with certain substances. Ask your provider when to pause using topical treatments like retinoids, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or vitamin C serums, which would react badly.
Opt for gentle cleansers with soothing oats, aloe, or glycerin ingredients instead.
Stay hydrated with ample water daily for supple skin. If you’re using other skin medications or treatments, discuss timing adjustments with all the doctors involved in the process to avoid conflicts.
And remember to inform your provider of any supplements taken, too, however harmless they may seem.
DO YOU KNOW?
There is a popular belief that the laser depilation process is painful. But it is not true, laser shots are not given at intervals but in motion
The Day of Your Appointment
Arrive with your skin cleansed and free of makeup, lotions, and other skin treatments to ensure the laser’s effectiveness. Staff will provide gowns or sheets and safety goggles to protect your eyes during treatment.
Expect to sign consent paperwork on potential side effects. They’ll go over post-care guidelines and what to expect, too.
Your provider will first use markers to map the targeted areas, then adjust device settings accordingly. They’ll test patches to determine suitable calibration before proceeding.
During treatment, they’ll stretch the skin taut while carefully hovering the laser head across areas. This pace allows its beams to disable follicles with minimal overlapping. The process is gradual to ensure accuracy.
Post-Treatment Care
Treated skin may redden with some swelling, tingling, or soreness post-session. This typically peaks at 24 hours but fades after 72.
After treatment, gently cleanse the area with lukewarm water and pat dry. Soothe any initial redness by applying chilled aloe gel or cucumber slices.
If you feel itchy skin later, resist rubbing or scratching the area. Wear only soft cotton fabrics for your comfort until the irritation subsides.
Also, avoid direct sun exposure, which can darken hyperpigmentation. A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen can help prevent UV damage whenever going outside while healing.
Watch for side effects like honey-colored crusting, pus, or fever, and immediately call your provider if concerned. If you’re prescribed topical antibiotics or corticosteroids, use them as directed to prevent complications.
Conclusion
Proper planning helps ensure a smooth, effective depilation experience. With multiple treatments spaced weeks apart and occasional touch-ups, lasers can offer long-lasting silky skin.
Consulting a qualified cosmetic dermatologist sets you on the path to satisfying hair reduction. Take these tips into action and get ready for your laser hair removal session today.
