Meta Title: How To Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
Meta Description: Thinking of getting laser treatment for permanent hair removal? Here’s all you need to know to achieve the best results from your laser treatment procedure.
How To Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
We once lived in a world where being super-hairy was seen as a sign of masculinity, but that’s no longer the case.
Today, men are more open to shaving and waxing unwanted hair on their bodies for a cleaner look and smoother feel — but these come with limitations. The results are not long-term and at-home hair removal methods are a chore.
Does that mean you have to kiss your grooming routine goodbye?
Of course not — not when you have a long-lasting solution like laser hair removal.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses cutting-edge laser light technology to transmit a pulse of light energy into the epidermis or the topmost layer of the skin. This targets the hair follicle and retards the reproductive cycle of the hair, resulting in weak and limp strands which will eventually stop growing with regular treatments.
In essence, the laser hits the melanin in the hair follicles, causing them to die at the roots. As damaged and dead follicles do not grow hair, laser hair removal can be a long-lasting solution to delay and prevent hair growth.
Keep in mind that while the procedure is considered painless compared to waxing, it does give the sensation of a rubber band being snapped against your skin. So, if you have a low pain threshold, be sure to talk to your doctor beforehand.
Why Should You Try Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal can work on every part of the body except for the eyelids, making it a comprehensive approach to hair reduction. It is a long-lasting, cost-effective option for those who have to wax or shave unwanted hair every so often to enjoy a smooth, hairless body.
Even better, it’s also pretty quick, typically taking a little over an hour for the back and legs and a much smaller time frame for smaller areas such as between the brows and armpits. Additionally, it does not cause razor burn and ingrown hair which can cause painful, tiny, swollen bumps on the skin.
What Should You Do To Prepare for Your First Laser Hair Removal Appointment?
Interested in getting laser hair removal?
Before you head to the nearest clinic, it would be wise to familiarize yourself with what to do before laser hair removal. This will help you avoid potential side effects and maximize the treatment’s effectiveness.
Here’s how to prepare for laser hair removal:
Stay Out of the Sun
Laser hair removal works on the pigment found in hair, so it goes without saying that it works best on light skin and dark hair.
As exposure to the sun can tan your skin and bleach your hair, it’s best to avoid sun exposure in the treatment area at least 3 weeks before your appointment. Otherwise, the laser may not be able to detect the pigment in your hair follicles as well, which will give you mediocre results. If work requires you to be outdoors, wear a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 and above to keep yourself protected.
You should likewise avoid self-tanning and UV tanning beds for two weeks before the treatment. They can make it difficult for the laser to target the pigment, which can negatively affect the outcome of the procedure.
Be Careful With Skincare Products
Are you big on skincare? If so, you may need to make some changes to your regimen before your laser procedure.
Avoid skincare products that contain active ingredients like acids and retinoids for at least a week before the appointment. Anything that exfoliates the skin and causes it to peel is a no-no as it can make your skin extra sensitive and cause unwanted side effects like hyper-pigmentation, hypo-pigmentation, and burning of the skin.
Shave the Area
The laser requires the right length of hair to damage the follicle easily. Hence, you should shave the area you want to have treated completely with a quality shaving cream at least 24 hours before your treatment.
Make sure you don’t wax or pluck the hair in the treatment area to keep the follicles and roots intact and ensure optimal hair removal results.
What To Look For in a Laser Hair Removal Center
Skin clinics specializing in laser hair removal are a dime a dozen, which is why you need to practice due diligence to ensure you’re getting the best results without compromising the health of your skin.
Here are some factors you should consider:
- Qualifications: Ensure that the clinic you’re considering is run by a team of experienced professionals. If they have a board-certified dermatologist on board, all the better.
- Safety measures: Look for a clinic that prioritizes hygiene and has standard procedures to prevent unnecessary contamination and infections.
- Laser technology: Check whether the clinic has a medical-grade Nd:YAG laser system. This works on almost all hair colors and offers permanent hair reduction as opposed to IPL (intense pulse light), which is potent on the skin but does not offer long-lasting hair removal for those with dark skin.
- Ratings and reviews: Browse the internet to see how people liked a particular clinic. While you’re at it, check on how they respond to negative reviews. This will give you an idea of how well they support customers who have received treatment from them.
Also, pay attention to:
- Pricing: Laser treatment does not just remove your hair, it also impacts your skin — the largest organ of the human body. For a safe experience, do business with a reputable clinic even if it isn’t the cheapest option.
Doing all this research can be tedious and time-consuming. Allow us to offer you a fail-safe solution:
SEV Laser: Safe, Effective Laser Hair Removal
Tired of shaving and other messy at-home hair removal methods? SEV Laser offers laser hair removal for all genders and skin types. We take pride in offering a safe space, hygienic practices, and effective treatments in an environment that is as pleasant and professional as possible.
We have facilities in Northern and Southern California, Georgia, Florida, New York, Illinois, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Visit our website or send us a message to learn more.