How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is one of the best ways to remove unwanted hair from your body. While shaving and other hair removal methods require you to repeat every week or few days, laser hair removal can achieve long-term results and greatly reduce the work you need to do at home to remove unwanted hair. If you’re considering laser hair removal, though, keep in mind that there are some steps you’ll need to take before each session.

Stop tanning

If you regularly tan, you’ll need to stop immediately. With tan skin, the laser has a hard time distinguishing between the hair follicle and your skin tone. Most dermatologists recommend that you wait at least six weeks after tanning before going in for a laser removal session. If you do go out into the sun, you’ll need to make sure that you are wearing sunscreen and protecting it from sunlight. This also applies to using self-tanner.

No waxing or plucking

Although it can be tempting, you’ll need to avoid doing any waxing or plucking of your hair. This method will take out the root, which will decrease the effectiveness of the laser treatment. Shaving is still allowed, but you will need to make sure that your hair follicles stay intact. In some cases, you’ll need to make sure that your hairs are of a certain length for each treatment session.

Avoid medications

There are some medications that can interfere with the process of laser hair removal. That’s why you’ll discuss your health history during your consultation to determine which medications you’re on. Medications that can interfere include oral contraceptives, hormonal treatments, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, Retinol, acne medication, and photosensitizing medications. You’ll receive complete instructions on when to stop taking these medications before your treatment session.

Shaving

Between 24-48 hours before your laser hair removal treatment, you’ll need to shave the hair from the area. This helps prevent any kind of damage from burned hairs. The hair shaft as well as the follicle will be there for the laser to work like it should to remove the hair.

Schedule a Consultation

Laser hair removal is an excellent way to achieve your body goals. To learn more about your options and how we can help, we invite you to contact our Scottsdale office by calling or filling out our online form.