The largest organ in the human body is skin. Our skin is what protects us from Ultra-violet rays of the sun, microbes and other aggressive agents in the environment. Even though the skin is strong, it needs some form of care, especially when you decide to have laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal is a popular method for getting rid of unwanted body hair. It is great for women who do not have the time to do a Brazilian wax or for those who can’t endure the pain of waxing. Laser is also for those who are tired with having to shave every now and then.
Laser hair removal works by directing a laser beam to the hair follicle to kill it. Laser treatment is appropriate for large surface areas. It is ideally used in light skinned with dark hair as dark skin will absorb a lot of the laser beam energy resulting in possible skin damage.
Considering, laser hair removal uses heat to kill your hair follicles, it can leave your skin painful and very irritated. Thus, your skin needs some care.
Laser Aftercare Advice
- Wear sunscreen to cover the treated area. Laser treated skin is sensitive to direct sunlight and may be prone to darkening. This is mostly important in those with dark skin.
- Avoid heat treatment, such as hot showers, steam rooms and sauna for at least 24-48 hours.
- Do not receive laser hair removal treatment if you are on any anti-biotic medication.
- Apply an ice-pack on the treated skin to reduce any pain. You can also use an ice-pack before treatment to numb the skin, much like a local anesthetic.
- Avoid any make up for at least a day.
- Use sun screen with SPF 15 or above.
- Avoid waxing, tweezing or electrolysis. For laser hair removal to be effective the hair follicles need to be intact.
- Before laser hair removal avoid tanning your skin. Darker skin absorbs most of the laser beam’s energy making hair removal difficult.
- Make sure to appropriately space out your laser hair removal sessions. Ideally, 4-12 weeks is advised.
- If receiving treatment to your underarms, organize for an early morning appointment to avoid deodorant and perfume use before the procedure.
- If you remove facial hair keep away from topical medication for instance, anti-acne creams.
