Do’s & Don’ts Before, During and After Laser Hair Removal

If you’re wondering whether you should shave before laser hair removal, or you’re looking for ideas on how to speed up shedding after laser hair removal, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll unearth the secrets to getting the results you want with laser hair removal.

Before: What to Do and What Not to Do

The time before laser hair removal is important. This is when, if you’re not fully clued-up about the laser hair removal process, you could start making some serious errors which will have a negative effect on your treatment results.

Whether you’re having facial hair laser hair removal or you’re looking to target symptoms of hirsutism, it’s vital to follow the correct do’s and don’ts.

What to Do Before Laser Hair Removal

Wondering what to do before laser hair removal, we’re here to tell you. In order to get the best results from your treatment, you should -

• Cleanse and exfoliate your skin – For the laser to work its best, it’s important to have skin that’s been cleansed and exfoliated. This will help ensure the laser has an easy obstacle-free route to the hair follicle. Try to exfoliate three days prior to your treatment if possible. That way, any dead, loose skin will be removed and the hair will be more easily targeted
• Bathe – It’s a good idea to ensure your skin is clean before your treatment, but if you’re wondering, ‘can you moisturise before laser hair removal’, the answer is no. Moisturisers will limit the laser’s ability to reach the hair follicle
• Wear loose-fitting breathable clothes – when you’re coming in for your laser treatment, it’s important to come dressed in comfortable clothing. Think loose-fitting, non-irritating fabrics such as cotton jersey. Your Este skincare specialist will apply a calming topical cream after your treatment so it’s wise to consider this when choosing what to wear
• Double-check your laser clinic’s credentials – one of the main ‘what to do before laser hair removal’ must-do's is to check you’re happy with your choice of laser removal clinic. Check out reviews, look at before and after pics, just dig a little deeper than surface level
• Shave before laser hair removal – this is the only method of hair removal you should be doing prior to treatment because it leaves the hair root in the hair follicle so the laser still has something to target. Shaving before laser hair removal should be done 24 hours before treatment

What Not to Do Before Laser Hair Removal

Now you know what you should be doing, here’s what you shouldn’t:

• Don’t get a tan
• Don’t bleach your hair
• Don’t pluck or wax
• Say no to caffeine-based drinks – it can heighten your sensitivity

During: What to Do and What Not to Do

So, you’ve started your treatment, maybe you’ve had a session, or a couple, and you’re wondering what’s actually ok to do between treatments. Let’s answer some questions:

Q. Can I wax during laser hair removal?

This is a definite no. If you’re midway through a course of treatment, you need to avoid waxing or plucking hair out. Once you’ve completed your treatment it’s fine to wax. As laser hair removal is considered the most permanent form of hair removal, you may not need to.

Q. Can I tan during laser hair removal?

We advise not to tan between treatments. This is because the more you tan the closer your skin colour will be to that of your hair. For laser to work well, there needs to be a decent amount of contrast between the skin and hair pigment.

Q. How can I deal with ingrown hair during laser hair removal?

The great news is that laser treatment is the best way to actually avoid and deal with any ingrown hairs you may have. The laser can get to the root of the problem and stop ingrown hairs from occurring. Laser does not cause ingrown hairs so you shouldn’t see any further problems develop, and in actual fact you should see an improvement in any ingrown hairs you currently have.

Q. How to reduce pain during laser hair removal?

If you’re worried about pain, try taking pain relief before your treatment, avoid scratching your skin prior to your session, and make sure you drink plenty of water. At Este, we use lasers with built-in cooling technology so our clients are as comfortable as possible.

Q. Is laser hair removal safe during pregnancy?

No, hair removal treatments such as laser and electrolysis are not considered safe during pregnancy.

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After: What to Do and What Not to Do

What can and can’t you do after laser hair removal? Let’s take a look:

1. Can you shave after laser hair removal? Yes, you can, but it’s best to wait 3-4 days after your treatment. This will ensure your skin has had time to heal and calm after the laser session.
2. Can you shower after laser hair removal? It’s best to wait 24 hours post-laser before you have a shower. Use mild products, keep the water warm but not too hot, and be gentle on your skin.
3. Can I use sunbed after laser hair removal? - No, please don’t. Your skin will be ultra-sensitive to UV rays so avoid sunbeds or natural tanning for at least two weeks after your laser treatment.
4. If you’re itchy after laser hair removal please refrain from scratching as it will irritate the skin further.
5. Exfoliate – this is a great way to help speed up shedding of your hair.
6. Keep the area clean and dry, avoid deodorant if it irritates your skin, and keep any make-up and/or moisturiser to a minimum.

What Next?

At Este, we’re experts in laser hair removal for men and women, and can help remove unwanted excess hair wherever it is on your body. Whether you suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome and unwanted facial hair is one of your side effects, or you simply want to laser your underarm hair so you don’t have to worry about it in the summer, we can help.

‍Book your consultation with us and start your journey towards gorgeously smooth, hair-free skin.