How to Prep for Laser Hair Removal Like a Pro

You’re ready to get super smooth for the summer, so you’ve booked your first laser hair removal session.  You’re excited, but are you prepped like a pro?

Preparing for laser removal is just as important as the sessions themselves.  Your preparations ensure that you get the most from your session and that it’s as comfortable for you as possible.

This post is about how to prep for laser hair removal like a pro, rendering the results you’ll love and will be proud to show off when the layers come off and the bathing suit goes on.

Step 1:  Shave 24 hours before

Yup!  You’ve got to shave.  There’s an important reason for this.  Because lasers are used in this hair removal process, shaving makes the hair follicle easier for the laser to target.  Follicles contain pigment that the laser identifies, so it can be removed effectively.

There’s another reason you should be aware of, though.  Excess hair can get in the way of a successful session and make it less comfortable.  Shaving 24 hours prior to your session gets you optimal results.

Step 2:  No sun (fake or otherwise)

For 2 weeks prior to your session, the sun is a no-no.  Areas being treated should be protected against the sun’s rays, but you should also refrain from using self-tanner or sunbeds.

Why?  When the pigmentation of your skin is darker, the pigmentation in your follicles is harder for the laser to find.  There’s not enough variation for the laser to know where it’s going.

You also have a higher risk of burning if you’ve used products to tan or have been in the sun.  Let’s face it, your skin is beautiful just the way it is, so protecting it from the sun is something you should do anyways.

Step 3:  Planning

Laser hair removal is a process.  If you’re planning on having multiple areas treated, then be sure to discuss spacing appointments with your technician.

Hair grows at varying rates and there’s an optimal point in the growth cycle that’s perfect for laser hair removal.  For the face, sessions should be 4-6 weeks apart and 6-8 weeks for other parts of your body.

Step 4:  Come as you are

You should arrive at your session exactly as you are – without makeup, lotions or other products on your skin.  Simply, these heat up quickly when exposed to lasers and will make your session less comfortable than it should be.  So, wash your face and boldly come as you are!

Step 5:  Hold the dye

Any hair you’re having removed shouldn’t be dyed.  In the past, some have believed that making the hair darker would help the laser in its work.

That’s simply not the case.

In truth, it makes laser hair removal more difficult, as the hair and the follicle have become darker.  We’re only after the follicle, so pay no attention to this myth.

Ethos Spa, Skin & Laser Center brings you advanced laser hair removal in a spa-like setting.  Contact us.