Secrets of Preparing Your Skin for Laser Hair Removal

Last updated 8 months ago

If you’ve recently decided to invest in cosmetic laser hair removal treatments, congratulations! You are that much closer to living free of the tedious and often painful means of conventional hair removal.

There are, however, several things you need to be aware of prior to your initial hair removal appointment. Take a look at the below tips on how to prepare for your first treatment, and be sure to ask your cosmetic specialist for more specific instructions as the day in question approaches.

Avoid the Sun—Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that locates hair follicles by their pigment. For the best results, you will want to avoid adding any extra pigment to the skin surrounding the hair follicle—otherwise discoloration of the skin may occur following your cosmetic treatment. Keep as pale as possible by avoiding the sun and the tanning bed for a few weeks prior to your appointment.
Do Not Pluck or Wax—You will want to stay away from any conventional hair removal method that damages or disturbs the location of the hair follicle. Shaving, however, is acceptable, as it merely removes the superficial hair without disturbing the hair shaft.
Do Not Apply Deodorant or Lotions—Chemicals found in lotions, makeup, deodorant, or any other cosmetic product may react with or prevent the laser from performing efficiently. On the day of your appointment, resort to unscented hand wipes to keep the target area clean if needed.
Plan for Minimal Downtime—Hair removal rarely causes side effects worse than those associated with sunburn. If, however, you are planning to have a cosmetic laser hair treatment administered to your face, you may want to plan to take a day off of work until any redness or minor irritation subsides.

Do you have more questions about how to prepare for your laser hair removal appointment, or what to expect on the day of your cosmetic treatment? Call Dr. Michael A. Horn at (312) 361-0665 for more details, and ask about the other cosmetic and plastic surgery treatments we offer.