While a few good treatment sessions are enough to achieve the desired outcome, proper laser hair removal aftercare is vital for a perfect finish and lasting results.
When it comes down to it, laser hair removal is a relatively straightforward treatment. A medical-grade laser emission applicator is used over an area of the skin. The body or facial hair of the treated area is permanently eradicated. And that too without experiencing any pain by the person undergoing the treatment or parting with a farcical sum of dough.
Imagine that! Never again having to buy another razor nor endure the agonies caused by all those waxing sessions.
However, once the treatment is through, a few things need to be kept in mind to attain the best and longest-lasting (read: permanent proper) results.
So, here is a list of things to give heed to right after you have undergone a laser hair removal session.
Shield the treated area of your skin from UV rays
This includes direct sunlight, tanning beds and any other sources of UV rays. Be sure to avoid direct exposure to these lights for at least 2 weeks after your treatment. If you must be out during the day, make sure you apply sunscreen.
Take a break from all activities involving excess heat
Hot showers, hot baths, saunas, and steam rooms are sure to cause damage to the treated areas of the skin. It is best to continue keeping a distance from these activities for at least 1 week after a laser hair removal session.
Avoid topical tanning products and heat patches as well for a similar duration.
Refrain from plucking, pull or waxing hair from the area undergoing treatment
Typically, an area of the skin requires 6-8 sessions of laser hair removal treatments to achieve the most effective results. Each of the treatment sessions must be spread out several weeks apart. While the treatment is ongoing, especially during the time between sessions, you must not wax or pluck out any of the remaining hair. It is extremely detrimental to the process; plucking or waxing will only stimulate hair follicles and result in fresh hair growth. However, gentle shaving is acceptable but should be avoided where possible.
Most on-skin products must be avoided
You must not use deodorants, make-up products, bleaching creams or other chemical-based topical products on the treated area for 24-48 hours after a treatment session.
There are a few exceptions, however. If irritation or sensitivity occurs after a laser hair removal session, you may apply soothing medicinal creams like vitamin E ointments over the counter. Also, you must use 30+ SPF sunscreen every time you step outside during the day.
On extremely rare occasions, blisters may form after treatment sessions. In such circumstances, it is considered safe to apply antibiotic ointments to the affected area.
Avoid working out for 48 hours after a treatment session
One of the benefits of exercising is the resultant sweating. With the post-workout sweat, the body flushes out all sorts of toxins and undesirable elements. However, excess sweat will aggravate the treated area of the skin and cause irritation and itchiness.
The Do’s of laser hair removal aftercare
While the above instructions pretty much cover everything you must not do after the treatments, you must make a point of doing the following:
- The post-treatment redness should subside after 1-2 weeks. Once this happens, gently exfoliate the treated area in the shower.
- Apply an icepack immediately after the treatment to prevent discomfort and irritation.
- Wear loose clothes for 48 hours after the treatment.
- Be sure to stay hydrated after the treatment (and always).
- We cannot stress this enough – use a 30+ SPF sunscreen each time you step outside the house during the day.