HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST LASER HAIR REMOVAL TREATMENT

Laser hair removal has continuously grown in popularity due to its effective, safe, and efficient method of eliminating unwanted hair from the body. Before you decide to make permanent changes to your body, make sure to inform yourself first. In addition, if you are considering this innovative option to remove undesired hair, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the treatment.

Overview

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure involving the use of a concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair. 

During the procedure, a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. The light is converted to heat, which eliminates the hair follicle within the skin. This results in the delay of the future hair growth for long periods. Eventually, multiple sessions are required for initial hair removal, in addition to maintenance treatments. Although laser hair removal is most commonly effective for people who have white skin and dark hair, the treatment can be successfully used on all skin types and colors. 

Proper preparation for laser hair removal will allow you to get the most out of your treatment. Make sure you follow these helpful tips to have the most effective experience. 

Avoid waxing or tweezing -- Laser hair removal treatments are most effective when the hair follicles are actively anchored into the skin. Waxing and tweezing can hinder the effectiveness of the treatments, therefore you may not receive optimal results. 

Avoid self-tanning -- Experts recommend patients to wait at least four weeks after using a self-tanner before beginning the laser treatment. Having a self-tanner on can increase the chances of having undesirable side effects, such as blisters and burns. Additionally, self-tanners darken the surface of the skin, which can hinder the effectiveness of the laser absorption; more laser energy will be absorbed at the skin’s surface rather than at the base of the hair follicle, which is the target area for energy absorption. 

Avoid sun exposure -- Patients are advised to avoid sun exposure for seven to ten days prior to and after each session. For those who are prone to having hyperpigmentation due to treatments, such as acne and scratches, they should wait at least six months. Furthermore, tanning is not recommended because the skin color becomes closer to the color of the hair; therefore, the laser’s setting may not be as aggressive, thus additional treatments may be needed to remove all the hair. 

Note: Experts highly recommend the use of sunblock regularly while receiving the treatment. This helps minimize the risk of side effects, such as burns and pigment changes. 

Cleanliness -- This refers to the removal of makeup, oils, serums, lotion, moisturizers, and anything applied on the face or skin. Lasers are attracted to pigments and melanin. Anything that is of dark color will be attracted to the laser, therefore making the treatment less effective. 

Note: The ideal time to apply full-coverage makeup is 24-48 hours after the treatment, depending on the skin’s recovery. If you are self-conscious of your skin, it’s preferable to have an appointment after school or work, so that you don’t worry about applying makeup. 

Pass on the treatment during the time of the month -- During your cycle, there is more sensitivity towards pain, therefore patients are advised to wait until the cycle ends to start their laser hair removal treatment.

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