Essential things to know before getting laser hair removal

You’ve come to the right place if you’ve been thinking about laser hair removal. As you are no doubt aware, there are many factors to consider, so whether you’re looking for a clinic for laser hair removal in NYC or purchasing an at-home gadget, it’s crucial to conduct research beforehand. In this post, you will learn basic things about laser hair removal. 

You can only decide if laser hair removal is the best option after knowing the procedure, its benefits, and the care process in detail. In addition to removing undesired hair, laser hair removal can also help with other problems like ingrown hairs, which are more likely to result in hyperpigmentation in people with dark skin tones.

What to know before undergoing laser hair removal?

Benefit from a Pre-Consultation

To find out if you’re a candidate and what to expect, it’s always a good idea to go in person. Laser treatment works best on lighter skin with dark, coarse hair. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as having tattoos, being pregnant, or having skin disorders, may prevent you from receiving treatment or make it slightly more challenging.

Fall and winter are the best seasons

It is strongly advised to keep all treated areas away from the sun throughout your treatment. If you’re following a six-treatment plan with appointments every six weeks that may take up to 36 weeks. Suppose you’re undergoing laser therapy on your face, arms, or other easily exposed skin. In that case, waiting until the seasons are less sunny is better unless you’re willing to cover up constantly. 

Exfoliate frequently to get results more quickly

Exfoliating the region three days following your laser treatment can help you experience benefits more quickly. In addition to helping prevent ingrown hairs, it will help to release any trapped hairs ready to fall out. Be careful not to exfoliate before or after treatment since this can exacerbate any sensitivity.

Just before your appointments, use a fresh razor

Before receiving a laser treatment, you should shave as closely as possible. Less hair means less discomfort and burning. You will feel a greater zap and smell like burnt hair if you have any stubble, which the laser will burn off. I discovered that the best results came from shaving shortly before I departed for my appointment and using a fresh razor head.

Every time you shave, you’ll see less hair

Shave the area again after each treatment. Every time you shave, you’ll notice progressively less hair and a significant change in the texture of your hair. It should get finer and spread out more gradually. Regular shaving will enable you to monitor your progress and tell your laser technician what is or is not working.

More than six sessions may be necessary

Many med-spas offer packages of 6 laser hair removal sessions; however, the actual number of sessions needed might range from 6 to 10. Ensure you are informed of any additional expenses if you purchase a package in advance in case you need to add a few more sessions.

What are the points to follow for pre-removal care?

Following are a few things to keep in mind before your laser removal session:

• At least 24 hours before your session, the area must be shaved
• Don’t shave the area where you wish to keep the hair if you plan to wear a bikini
• For at least 4 weeks, avoid waxing, threading, or tweezing in the area. It’s ok to shave!
• For at least three days before (and three days after) your appointment, avoid being in the sun
• Having more than two alcoholic beverages within 24 hours after your treatment is not advised
• On the day of your visit, avoid using lotion, deodorant, or makeup on the treatment area
• The better the shave, the closer it is. Leave a tiny patch of hair if it is your first time so that the professional may examine it
• To prevent potential harm, refrain from using self-tanners or spray tan products for at least two weeks before your treatment.

What are the points to follow for post-removal care?

Following are a few things to keep in mind after your laser removal session:

• Do not pick or scratch the skin that has been treated. During your laser treatments, avoid using any hair removal products or procedures other than shaving on the treated area since this will hinder you from getting the best results
• Stay out of the sun for two months to lower your risk of developing dark or light spots. Use a sunscreen (SPF 25 or higher) constantly during therapy and for 1-2 months after
• Keep the area that has been treated clean and dry. If additional redness or irritation develops, wait to use your deodorant, moisturizer, or makeup until the irritation has passed.
• Redness and bumps at the treatment site are frequent right away; they could linger up to two hours or longer
• The hair may start to fall out between 5 and 30 days after the therapy, which may look like fresh hair growth. By shaving and using a washcloth or an exfoliating cloth, you can aid in hair removal
• Within 5 to 30 days of the treatment date, stubble, which represents dead hair being lost from the hair follicle, will appear. That is typical, and they will separate shortly.
• You can use a light soap to gently wash the treated area. During the first 48 hours, the skin should not be rubbed dry but rather patted dry

Final thoughts

The information above will give you a basic idea about laser hair removal. However, you must listen to the advice given by the professional during your first appointment and later sessions to avoid any skin problems and discomfort.