Laser Hair Removal Pre-Care | Genesis Lifestyle Medicine (2024)

FAQs

What medicine to take before laser hair removal? ›

Some pain killers – Some people like to take pain killers before a laser hair removal session, which is absolutely fine. However, we recommend you opt for paracetamol instead of Ibruprofen or aspirin as these can react to the laser light.

PRE-TREATMENT CARE

The treatment area must be clean-shaven 12-24 hours before your treatment. Unshaved clients will be rescheduled. Razors are not provided in the clinics. Skin must be clean and free of makeup, lotions, moisturizers, oils, deodorant, sunless tanning products, numbing cream, etc.

The basic principle is that the pigment of the hair, but not the pigment of the skin, should absorb the light. The laser should damage only the hair follicle while avoiding damage to the skin. Therefore, a contrast between hair and skin color — dark hair and light skin — results in the best outcomes.

“Before to laser hair removal, one should avoid taking some vitamins, herbal supplements, blood thinners, antibiotics, Accutane, and Retin-A.” It is crucial to let your doctor know about any medications or dietary supplements you are taking if you intend to undergo laser hair removal.

The area of treatment should be shaved at least 12 hours prior to treatment. Wear loose-fitting clothes on the day. Avoid alcohol or smoking the night before and on the day of the treatment. Drink at least 1 litre of water the day before and the day of treatment - this helps your body to regulate its temperature.

The higher the photosensitivity, the higher the risk that your skin could become burned during the procedure. Make sure to avoid ingredients such as salicylic acid, retinol, and benzoyl peroxide 2-3 days before your procedure and wait 2-3 days before you begin using them again.

Preparing For Your Laser Skin Tightening Treatment

If there is excessive hair in the treatment area, we recommend shaving the area prior to treatment. Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area, and do not use UV tanning beds at all for two weeks before treatment.

Shaving and exfoliating can increase follicular activity, making the following laser treatment more effective. Another tip suggested by experts is to pay attention to hair growth during laser hair removal treatment. Some localized areas may grow more quickly than others. This is a detail to share with your provider.

What makes you a bad candidate for laser hair removal? ›

People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.

Shave Before Treatment

You should shave within 24 hours of your scheduled laser appointment. Your laser technician cannot treat areas that have hair above the skin. You cannot even receive treatment if there is rough stubble because this may create too much heat for the pigment of your skin.

' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.

Avoid very hot baths, showers, steam baths or saunas, and don't swim in strong chlorinated water for two or three days. Don't use bleaching creams or perfume products for 24 to 48 hours. Avoid exfoliating or peels for one week. Try to avoid wearing tight clothing for two or three days.

Because peach fuzz in general is lighter in colour it's not likely the laser will be able to target it successfully.

Acetaminophen or Tylenol taken one hour before your appointment may help reduce your pain experience. Be sure to avoid NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and Alieve, which can thin the blood and cause bruising and bleeding during treatment.

Although there is no scientific evidence to suggest that taking vitamins negatively affects laser hair removal treatments, yet many physicians advise their patients to stop taking these vitamins during the laser hair removal sessions.

You can use an ice pack to calm the treatment area. Use fragrance-free lotions to soothe the skin, and consider topical cortisone cream if there is significant irritation. Laser hair removal makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so protect the treated area by keeping it covered and using sunscreen.

The symptoms of a histamine reaction after laser hair removal may include itching, redness, swelling, and hives. If you experience a histamine reaction after laser hair removal, you can use an over-the-counter antihistamine, for example, Benadryl, Zyrtec, or Allegra, to help reduce the itching and swelling.