Laser treatments are an incredibly popular method of permanent hair removal. To protect your skin and maximize the results of these sessions, embrace the right skin care products and self-care techniques before and after with the following guide.

Do:

Avoid sun exposure.

Sun exposure can make your skin extremely sensitive to heat, increasing the likelihood of scarring, discomfort, or hyper-pigmentation when undergoing laser hair removal. Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and wear strong sunscreen for two weeks before and after each session. 

Shave before your treatment.

For permanent hair removal to be effective, the laser needs to reach the hair follicle. Shave the treatment area the day before your appointment. This will allow the laser easier access to the follicle and will reduce the likelihood of thermal injuries on the skin’s surface.

Don’t:

Wax or pluck.

Laser treatment is most successful when the hair root is zapped so future growth halts at the follicle. To ensure the laser reaches the root of each hair, avoid waxing, bleaching, or plucking the treatment area for six weeks before your first session. In between visits to the medical spa, stick to shaving.

Disturb the treatment area. 

In the days following each session, hairs will begin to fall out on their own. During this healing process, be gentle with your skin to reduce the likelihood of irritation, bumps, redness, or swelling. Avoid extremely hot showers, swimming in chlorinated pools, or trips to the sauna for the first three days. Refrain from tanning, exfoliating your skin, or using peels for at least a couple weeks. Apply ice packs if swelling occurs, and use aloe vera gel and sunscreen to soothe and protect the treatment area.

If you’re on Oahu and looking for permanent hair removal, trust in fully licensed aesthetician Maggie Liu and her luxury day spa, Pure Skin by Maggie in the heart of Honolulu. She also offers organic skin products and refreshing peels. Book your free consultation today by calling (808) 427-3012, or visit the skin care professional online to browse the treatment menu.