Spring is the perfect time to start your laser hair removal journey. As the temperatures rise and we head into shorts and swimsuit season, many people look for ways to achieve smooth, hair-free skin. Laser hair removal is a safe and effective option, but to get the best results, proper preparation before your first session is key.
Here’s what you need to know to set yourself up for success:
- Avoid Sun Exposure
One of the most important steps before your first session is to minimize sun exposure. Tanned skin (whether from the sun or a tanning bed) increases your risk of side effects like blistering or pigmentation changes. Ideally, you should avoid direct sun exposure for at least two to four weeks before treatment. If you must be outdoors, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and protective clothing.
- Shave, Don’t WaxSpring Laser Hair Removal: How to Prep for Your First Session
In the days leading up to your appointment, it’s essential to shave the treatment area—but avoid waxing, plucking, or using hair removal creams. Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair root. If you wax or pluck, you remove the root, leaving nothing for the laser to treat. Shave the area about 24 hours before your session to minimize irritation and ensure the laser can effectively target the hair beneath the skin.
- Skip Skincare Products on Treatment Day
On the day of your laser session, arrive with clean, product-free skin. That means no lotions, creams, deodorant, perfumes, or makeup on the area being treated. Products can interfere with the laser’s effectiveness or even cause unwanted reactions. If you accidentally apply something, your provider will usually cleanse the area before treatment, but it’s best to come in fresh and bare-skinned.
- Review Your Medications
Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to light, increasing the risk of burns or pigmentation changes during laser treatments. These include certain antibiotics, acne treatments like isotretinoin, and even some herbal supplements. Before your first session, give your provider a full list of medications and supplements you’re currently taking. They can advise if any adjustments are needed before you start.
- Set Realistic Expectations
Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results, but it’s important to understand that multiple sessions are necessary to see full benefits. Hair grows in cycles, and the laser can only target hair in the active growth phase. Most patients require six to eight sessions spaced a few weeks apart for optimal results. Patience and consistency will pay off with smoother, lower-maintenance skin.
- Stay Hydrated and Relaxed
Finally, drink plenty of water and try to stay relaxed. While most patients describe the sensation of laser hair removal as a mild snap or warmth, everyone’s pain tolerance is different. Your provider can offer numbing cream if you’re concerned about discomfort.
Starting your laser hair removal treatments this spring can mean a carefree, confident summer. By following these simple preparation steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying smooth, beautiful skin. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, our team is here to help!
