Laser hair removal has become a popular choice for potentially achieving permanent hair reduction and smoother skin. However, to ensure the best possible outcome and minimise potential risks, proper preparation is key.
Whether you’re new to laser hair removal or seeking to enhance your experience, this article will guide you through essential steps to get ready for your Brazilian, armpit, or facial hair removal session and achieve optimal results.
Pre-Treatment Preparations
Before your laser hair removal appointment, the pre-treatment phase is critical. There are several important steps to take in the days and weeks leading up to the appointment that will help optimise the safety and effectiveness of your treatment:
1. Consultation with a Professional
Before undergoing laser hair removal, schedule a consultation your doctor..
During this initial meeting, your doctor will assess your skin type, hair colour, and texture. This information helps determine the most suitable laser technology and treatment plan for your unique needs.
You must also inform your doctors about any medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs. This is because some medications, such as photosensitising drugs like Doxycycline or certain oral acne treatments, can increase your skin’s sensitivity to light and affect the laser treatment’s effectiveness.
Similarly, if you have any underlying medical conditions, allergies, or skin sensitivities, communicate them to your practitioner to ensure a safe and tailored experience.
If you have concerns about the safety and efficacy of laser hair removal on sensitive skin, it may be a wise option to opt for a dedicated aesthetic clinic in Singapore, such as V Medical Aesthetics, rather than a generic beauty salon.
This is because in Singapore, laser hair removal can often only be performed by a certified doctor or trained professional under supervision, ensuring a safer procedure. Clinics like V Medical Aesthetics also use medical-grade devices, such as the advanced Nd:YAG laser, which is effective and safe for diverse skin tones.
Furthermore, aesthetic clinics maintain stringent standards of experience and cleanliness that ensure both your safety and maximum comfort throughout the entire treatment process.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure
Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications during and after laser hair removal.
This is because the laser used during permanent hair removal treatments targets melanin in the hair follicles, and excessive sun exposure could lead to skin sensitivity and potential burns.
If you are planning a Brazilian hair removal or underarm hair removal, it’s also advisable to avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds for at least two weeks before your scheduled treatment.
If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin even when it is cloudy outside. And remember to reapply sunscreen diligently every few hours and wear sun protection clothing where possible.
3. Skip Waxing and Plucking
Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading the treatment area before your laser hair removal session. These hair removal methods remove the hair from the root, which is necessary for the laser to target the hair follicle effectively.
If you need to remove hair in the weeks leading up to your appointment, shaving is the recommended method of hair removal between sessions, as it preserves the hair shaft while removing it from the skin’s surface. We will touch more on the specifics of shaving in the following section.
4. Shave the Treatment Area
Shaving the treatment area a day or two before your laser hair removal session is essential.
Shaving ensures that the laser energy is focused on the hair follicles beneath the skin’s surface, rather than singeing the surface hair. This allows the laser to target the hair follicles more effectively, leading to better results.
If you are concerned about skin sensitivity or getting cuts from shaving, ensure you use a new, sharp razor, apply a soothing shaving gel, and shave gently in the direction of hair growth to minimise irritation and prevent razor burns.
5. Hydrate and Moisturise
Well-hydrated skin promotes better results and minimises discomfort during the laser hair removal session. Hence, it is advised to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment and keep your skin moisturised to maintain its health and resilience. This can be done by applying a rich, fragrance-free body lotion daily and avoiding harsh soaps or cleansers that strip your skin of its natural oils.
During the Treatment
If this is your first time getting laser hair removal, it is important to understand what to expect during the session and the process of the laser hair removal treatment itself. Knowing the steps helps ensure you feel comfortable and prepared.
Safety Measures
During the treatment, both the practitioner and the client will be required to wear specialised safety glasses to protect their eyes from the intense laser light. To minimise discomfort and protect the skin’s surface from the heat, cooling gels or integrated cooling devices built into the laser handpiece may also be utilised throughout the session.
Understanding the Sensation
Laser hair removal is often described as feeling like a series of quick pinpricks or a sensation of heat. While discomfort is generally mild, individual pain tolerance varies. The sensation also depends significantly on the area being treated.
For example, facial hair removal typically feels less intense than treatment on sensitive areas, such as the Brazilian or bikini line, as the skin is thinner and the hair follicles are denser in those regions.
If you’re concerned about the sensation, discuss options such as numbing creams or cooling devices with your practitioner before the session.
Duration
The length of the session depends entirely on the size of the area being treated.
Rough Session Estimates:
- Upper Lip/Chin: 5-10 minutes
- Underarms: 10-15 minutes
- Hands/Feet: 15-20 minutes
- Bikini Line/Brazilian: 20-30 minutes
- Lower Legs: 30-45 minutes
- Full Back: 45-60+ minutes
- Full Legs: 60-90+ minutes
Post-Treatment Care
After your laser hair removal session, your practitioner will provide you with specific aftercare instructions. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial to ensure proper healing and potentially maximise your results for truly permanent hair removal:
1. Prioritise Sun Protection
After your laser hair removal session, the treated skin will be significantly more sensitive to sun exposure. Hence, consistent application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or above) is essential to prevent hyperpigmentation and protect the healing skin.
Similar to the steps to take before treatment, remember to reapply sunscreen frequently, especially when outdoors, and use sun-protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, for added protection.
2. Avoid Hot Baths and Activities
It is crucial to avoid sources of intense heat for at least 24 to 48 hours after treatment, as heat could irritate the treated skin and potentially lead to complications such as swelling or redness.
This means temporarily avoiding hot showers, baths, saunas, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise. Giving your skin this cooling period is vital for minimising irritation and ensuring a smooth recovery.
3. Moisturise
Applying a gentle moisturiser is key to promoting a healthy recovery from laser hair removal, as it helps soothe the skin and prevent post-treatment dryness or flaking. It is generally recommended to use fragrance-free and non-comedogenic moisturisers to ensure they do not clog your pores or cause unnecessary irritation to the sensitive, treated area.
Be Patient and Consistent
Achieving permanent results from laser hair removal requires patience and consistency. Multiple sessions are typically needed to target hair in different growth phases effectively. Depending on the treatment area and your individual response, you may need four to six sessions spaced several weeks apart. However, consistently attending your scheduled sessions increases the likelihood of long-lasting hair reduction.
Preparing for Your Best Results
Getting ready for laser hair removal involves a combination of preparation, communication, and adherence to aftercare instructions. By following these steps, you can optimise your experience and potentially achieve permanently hair-free skin over time.
Remember that each individual’s journey is unique, and consulting with a skilled practitioner ensures that your laser hair removal process is safe, effective, and tailored to your specific needs.
Schedule a consultation today and start your permanent hair removal journey.
This blog post was medically reviewed by Dr. Ian Tan.