What happens if you dont shave before laser hair removal?

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December 29, 2016

Asked By:

in Ellicott City, MD

When i went in for my consulatation today at a new facility I was told to NOT shave the area I'm getting lasered because the technician said she needed to see how my hair grows. Other technicians I've visited have said that I needed to shave 24 hrs before the treatment if not the laser would burn the hair and not be able to reach the follicle. I am 21 and have light brown skin , I think I have had level 6 used on me with the YAG during my first laser appt. At another facility.

Laser hair removal is now more affordable and accessible than ever. After years of shaving or waxing, you may be considering having laser for unwanted hair for a more permanent outcome. Here are some important things to know before you start treatment so you can achieve silky smooth results!

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How it works

It might seem like magic, but there’s a science behind it! Using a cosmetic medical-grade laser, the hair follicle is targeted with a concentrated beam of light. Depending on whether your skin is lighter or darker, the laser will either target the pigment or the blood supply in the hair follicle. This destroys and stunts the hair growth, reducing the amount of hair that will regrow. Laser hair removal is effective on both the body and face.

Laser hair removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore is governed by strict regulations. Before booking your treatment, always ask if the technicians are qualified and that the equipment is TGA approved.

1. Avoid sun exposure

We cannot treat you if you have had sun exposure within two weeks of your laser hair removal treatment as laser will sizzle any pigment on your skin. This means that if you are sunburned, or even just tanned, you may need to reschedule your appointment. If you’re a bit of a beach babe or surfer guy, you may wish to start your treatments during the winter months to avoid any inconvenience.

2. A fake tan’s a safe tan… unless you’re getting laser!

Before your appointment, make sure you’re not exposed to the sun for two weeks prior. The laser will sizzle any pigment in your skin including sunburn and tanned skin, so leave your skin au naturel. Winter is a great time to start your treatments, especially if you’re a sun worshipper (which we don’t recommend!)

Just like with a real tan, we unfortunately can’t treat skin with fake tan either. So, ditch the bottle before your appointment and use our Balense Skin Resurfacing Cleanser to remove any fake tan residue.

3. Shave, don’t wax!

Laser will only work on hairs that have the root still intact, so don’t wax, epilate or use depilatory creams before treatment. To prepare for your laser hair removal, shave the area 12-14 hours before your appointment with a clean, sharp razor. Be sure to remove all hairs especially longer hairs sitting above the skin as this can cause burns.

To stay smooth throughout your course of treatments, you can shave in between your laser hair removal appointments if there is no lingering redness in the skin.

4. Skip the deodorant

On your appointment day, make sure the treatment area is clean and free of moisturiser, deodorant and other skin products. If your face is being treated, it’s best to avoid makeup. After your laser hair removal treatment, we recommend that you avoid wearing deodorant or applying other products for 24 hours, except for soothing products such as Balense Recovery Cream.

5. Avoid swimming after laser

While it might be tempting to cool off in the ocean or pool, we recommend no swimming for 24-48 hours after laser hair removal. Your skin will be more sensitive than usual so it’s best to avoid any bacteria or chemicals that might be in the water. Don’t worry, it won’t be long before you can hit the beach again with smooth skin!

6. Honesty is key

Before you start your treatment, you’ll receive a complimentary consultation with one of our friendly technicians to assess your hair and skin type. You can discuss any concerns at this time, such as ingrown hairs or other issues. Our qualified technicians use medical-grade equipment so it’s important that you tell us about previous treatments and medications you’re taking so we can treat you safely. If you’ve had a recent skin treatment or are taking Roaccutane, this can affect your suitability for laser hair removal.

7. Use the recommended products

After your treatment, your skin may appear ‘sunburnt’. The best way to treat any minor discomfort or swelling is with a skincare product such as Balense Recovery Cream and a cold compress. Your skin will be sensitive to sunlight so avoid sun exposure for 48 hours and apply Balense UV Defiance SPF 50+ on the treated area to prevent discoloration or sunburn.

8. Book regular treatments

Timing is everything with laser hair removal! Your results can vary dramatically depending on the frequency of treatments. Laser hair removal is only effective in the first stage of hair growth when the hair follicle is rich in melanin, which is the pigment targeted by the laser. Timing your appointments 4-6 weeks apart is the most effective way to ensure all your hair follicles are treated. That’s why we highly recommend booking a course of laser hair removal treatments rather than making ad hoc appointments. For the best results, attend your appointments at the rate your technician advises.

9. Skip the gym and hot showers

Exercise and hot showers will increase your body temperature, causing sweating which can be a breeding ground for bacteria. To help avoid infection or ingrown hairs, wait at least 24 hours after a laser hair removal treatment before resuming your exercise routine.

10. Have realistic expectations

To achieve long-term hair reduction, you’ll need multiple treatments, but the effort will be well worth it! At your obligation free consultation, your technician will assess your skin and hair type and help determine your treatment plan. The number of treatments you need will vary from person-to-person as regrowth can be affected by hormones and other biological factors. Remember that no laser clinic can promise 100 per cent hair removal as some hair will always return, but we can work with you to achieve the best possible results.

Now that you understand more about laser hair removal, you’re ready to book your complimentary consultation with one of our friendly technicians at Australian Skin Clinics! Contact us on 1300 303 014 and book today.

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