If you’re considering laser hair removal, then we imagine you have already completed some research into the treatment and the many benefits it offers. In this blog, we’re letting you know how to prepare for laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal treatments are popular for many individuals. It is often completed quickly, and multiple appointments can significantly reduce hair growth, saving you time, money and effort in the long run.
What is a laser hair removal treatment?
Laser hair removal involves using a handheld tool to remove hair from the body in sweeping motions.
The device uses lasers to disrupt the hair follicles in the skin. This means that it takes longer for new hair to grow and can also reduce the growth altogether in the future. Laser hair removal should only be completed by a trained professional. Find out more about how laser hair removal works.
How many sessions of laser hair removal do I need?
There is no way of knowing exactly how many sessions you may require. However, many people find that they get the best results after around 2 – 6 sessions. Even one session can have a positive impact on hair growth. The number of sessions you may require can depend on where the treatment is being performed on your body.
Laser treatments can be used on your legs, armpits, face, back, bikini line and more.
These are all areas of the body that can grow unwanted hair. Many people find regular shaving and waxing irritating, and they can also end up costing you more money in the long run and taking up more time than laser treatment.
How to prepare for laser hair removal
You may be invited to a consultation before your first laser hair removal appointment. During this consultation, you should also receive some information on preparing your body for the treatment.
Avoid hair removal methods
Before you have a laser hair removal session, you should ensure that you do not complete any other hair removal procedures, such as threading and waxing.
Additionally, for the best results, you should really attend your appointment after not shaving or waxing for around four weeks, as this will allow the hair to grow longer before the laser hair treatment.
You may be able to shave the area, but you must leave at least 24 hours between shaving and having the laser treatment. This is because shaving only reaches the surface of the skin and does not tend to disrupt the root of the hair follicle or the hair growth cycle.
Avoid sun exposure before a laser hair removal treatment
With many beauty treatments, you’ll be advised to avoid direct sun exposure as best as you can for at least two weeks before the procedure. In addition to avoiding the sun, you should ensure that you do not use any tanning products before the treatment. These can make the treatment less effective, meaning that more sessions may be required for the results you desire.
Cleanse and exfoliate
It’s important to keep your skin clean, and you can do this by cleansing and exfoliating before the appointment. You should complete this at least three days before the treatment. Only use a gentle cleanser. Exfoliation will help remove dead skin cells and allow the treatment to work better.
You should avoid chemical peels before and after your laser hair removal session.
Consider your skincare
Skincare is very important if you want healthy, glowing skin. Before you attend your laser hair removal appointments, you should avoid using makeup, moisturisers, serums, and perfumes on the treatment area. These can act as a barrier between your skin and the laser therapy.
Consider your outfit – wear loose clothes
When your appointment day arrives, you need to think about your clothing. Wearing clothing that is too tight could make you feel uncomfortable, so it’s better to wear loose clothing where you can. Loose clothing can also reduce the risks of any numbing creams transferring onto the material.
Choose a quality beauty clinic for laser technology
When deciding to have a beauty treatment, it’s absolutely crucial that you only choose from reputable clinics and practitioners. There are some steps you can take to check the reliability of the clinic.
- Check the clinic out in person – check if it is clean and safe
- Ask your practitioner about their qualifications and experience
- Look into company reviews
- Ensure that you feel comfortable asking any questions
Your practitioner may ask about your skin type, texture, skin tones, and hair colour before the laser hair removal procedure begins.
Talk to your practitioner about any medication you are taking
It’s very important that you are honest with your practitioner about any medications you are taking when you want to have the treatment. Some medications may affect the results of the treatment. Your practitioner will be able to let you know if you can have the treatment successfully while taking any medications. They may also request information regarding your medical history and ask about your pain threshold.
Make sure you let your practitioner know if you have sensitive skin or skin irritation. Irritation may mean that your appointment to remove unwanted hair will be better postponed or a different numbing cream may be necessary. Ensure that you let your practitioner know about any worries you have regarding pain around the treatment areas. Find out: can you have laser hair removal when pregnant and can you have laser hair removal on a tattoo?
Ask any questions you have
It’s very important that you ask any questions you have before you have the treatment. All beauty treatments should be carefully considered before you begin. Your practitioner can give you honest advice regarding the treatment process, sessions, aftercare and more. Read our blog on how many sessions of laser hair removal do I need?
We hope this blog has been helpful regarding how to prepare for laser hair removal. Are you interested in booking an appointment for laser treatment? Please feel free to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help.
