Proper preparation for laser hair removal is crucial for achieving optimal results and minimizing potential side effects. At Skirn Club, we want every client to have the best possible experience and outcome from their treatments. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know before your laser hair removal session.
Why Preparation Matters
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in hair follicles with concentrated light energy. This light is absorbed by the pigment and converted to heat, which damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth. For this process to work effectively and safely, the follicle must be intact (with the hair shaft inside it), but the surface hair should be removed.
Following the right preparation steps ensures that:
- The laser can effectively target the hair follicles
- Your skin is in optimal condition for treatment
- The risk of side effects is minimized
- You achieve the best possible results from each session
Preparation Timeline: What to Do and When
Stop Other Hair Removal Methods
For laser hair removal to be effective, the hair follicle must be intact. This means you need to stop using hair removal methods that extract the hair from the follicle:
- Waxing
- Plucking/tweezing
- Epilating
- Threading
- Depilatory creams (like Nair or Veet)
Shaving is the only hair removal method you should use during your laser treatment course, as it removes only the hair above the skin surface while leaving the follicle intact.
Pro Tip: If you've been waxing for a long time, allow 6-8 weeks before your first laser session to ensure enough hair regrowth for effective treatment.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Sun exposure increases the risk of side effects like hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and hypopigmentation (light spots) after laser treatment. For at least 2-4 weeks before your session:
- Avoid tanning (both natural sunlight and tanning beds)
- Use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily on all treatment areas that might be exposed to the sun
- Wear protective clothing when outdoors
- Schedule your treatments during the fall/winter months when possible
If you have a tan (natural or artificial), your technician may recommend postponing your treatment until your skin returns to its natural tone.
Pro Tip: Self-tanners should also be avoided, as they can interfere with the laser's ability to distinguish between skin and hair pigment.
Avoid Certain Skincare Products
Some skincare ingredients can sensitize the skin, making it more reactive to laser treatment. Discontinue the following products on the treatment area 5-7 days before your session:
- Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin, Adapalene)
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid
- Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Vitamin C (in high concentrations)
- Fragrance-heavy products
Instead, use gentle, non-irritating cleansers and moisturizers in the week leading up to your treatment.
Pro Tip: If you're using prescription skincare, consult with your dermatologist before discontinuing use.
Shave the Treatment Area
Shaving 24-48 hours before your appointment is crucial for several reasons:
- It allows the laser to target the follicle without burning surface hair
- It reduces the risk of burns and skin reactions
- It makes the treatment more comfortable
- It improves the effectiveness of the treatment
Use a clean, sharp razor and shaving cream to minimize irritation. Avoid electric razors as they may not provide a close enough shave.
If you miss a spot or are unable to shave certain areas, let your technician know—they can help you with a touch-up shave before treatment.
Pro Tip: For hard-to-reach areas like the back, ask someone for help or consider using a razor with an extendable handle.
Avoid Exercise and Heat
In the 24 hours before your treatment, avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or heat in the treatment area:
- Intense exercise
- Saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs
- Hot yoga
- Very hot showers or baths
Heat and sweat can sensitize your skin, making it more reactive during treatment.
Pro Tip: If you do exercise, shower immediately afterward and keep your skin cool and clean until your appointment.
Prepare Your Skin
On the day of your appointment:
- Ensure the treatment area is clean and free of all products (makeup, lotion, deodorant, perfume, etc.)
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the treatment area
- For facial treatments, arrive with a clean face (no makeup)
- For underarm treatments, skip deodorant that day
- For bikini area treatments, wear cotton underwear that can be easily adjusted
Pro Tip: If you're particularly sensitive to pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen 30-60 minutes before your appointment (if medically appropriate for you).
Special Considerations
Medications & Medical Conditions
Certain medications and conditions can affect your laser hair removal treatment. Be sure to inform your technician if you:
- Take photosensitizing medications (including certain antibiotics and acne medications)
- Have a history of herpes in the treatment area (you may need antiviral medication before treatment)
- Have any autoimmune conditions that affect the skin
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have recently used isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past 6 months
- Have any skin disorders or recent skin injuries in the treatment area
Your safety is our priority, and being forthcoming about your medical history helps us provide the safest, most effective treatment.
Hormonal Conditions
Conditions that affect hormone levels, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can impact the results of laser hair removal. If you have a hormonal condition:
- Inform your technician during your consultation
- You may require more sessions than average
- Maintenance sessions may be needed more frequently
- Combining laser treatment with appropriate medical management of your condition often yields the best results
What to Expect During Your First Session
Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your first laser hair removal session:
- Consultation: Your technician will review your medical history, discuss your goals, and examine your skin and hair type to determine the appropriate laser settings.
- Preparation: The treatment area will be cleaned, and you'll be provided with protective eyewear.
- Test Patch: For first-time clients, we typically perform a small test patch to ensure your skin responds well to the treatment.
- Treatment: The laser handpiece will be moved across the treatment area, delivering pulses of light to the hair follicles. You may feel a sensation similar to a rubber band snap with each pulse.
- Cooling: Depending on the area, cooling methods may be applied before, during, or after treatment to enhance comfort.
- Post-Treatment Care: Your technician will apply a soothing gel if needed and provide specific aftercare instructions.
- Scheduling: Before leaving, you'll schedule your next appointment (typically 4-6 weeks later).
Conclusion
Proper preparation is key to achieving the best possible results from your laser hair removal treatments. By following these guidelines, you'll help ensure that each session is safe, effective, and comfortable.
At Skirn Club, our team of specialists is committed to providing personalized care and guidance throughout your laser hair removal journey. If you have any questions about preparing for your treatment or would like to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to contact us.
