Laser hair removal is a popular procedure at our Dudley clinic for clients who want the benefits of long-term smooth and hair-free skin. The advanced pulsed light treatment works by destroying the hair follicle and leaving the surrounding skin healthy. It’s suitable for all skin types and is convenient, effective and has minimal risks and side effects.
The treatment is commonly used for the face, chest, legs, bikini line, armpits, and back. Beforehand, you’ll have a personal consultation to determine if you are a suitable candidate, and you’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
You’ll also be given tailored advice on how to care for your skin afterwards, and the most common side effects. Here are some general tips to help you get the most out of your treatment. This will protect the health of your skin, enhance the effectiveness of the treatment, and ensure that the results are long lasting and satisfactory.
Apply cool pressure to calm any irritation
Some people find that their skin is red and bumpy after the treatment, and may be slightly sensitive or uncomfortable. This can be relieved by applying a cold compress, which will ease any discomfort and reduce swelling.
Protect your skin from the sun
Your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight after a laser hair removal procedure, so it’s important to avoid direct sun exposure to reduce the risk of irritation. Cover the treated areas with loose clothing, or if this is not possible such as on the face, use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Do not use sunbeds or tanning products.
Avoid getting too hot
Your skin will be sensitive to heat in the first 24 hours after treatment, so it’s advisable to avoid exposing it to heat as much as possible. For example, do not have hot baths or showers, or use hot tubs or steam rooms. Avoid intense exercise that will significantly raise body temperature.
Use fragrance-free skincare products
It’s important to keep your skin moisturised to keep it soft and healthy, but avoid using fragranced products or those that contain harsh chemicals, as these may cause further redness and irritation. Look for gentle natural ingredients such as aloe vera and shea butter. Don’t apply products that contain alcohol, exfoliating ingredients or deodorants.
Your skin consultant may advise you on the most suitable aftercare products for your particular skin type.
Avoid waxing or plucking
Laser treatments work by destroying the root of the hair, so do not carry out any treatments that involve pulling out the roots such as waxing or plucking in between sessions. Laser treatment is a permanent means of hair removal, but it can only target the hairs when they are in an active growth cycle.
Therefore it can take up to six or more treatments to see the best results, with four to six weeks between each treatment. The dead hairs will also take up to three weeks to shed after treatment, so the full results may not be apparent at first.
Wait at least 24 hours before shaving
It is possible to shave the skin in between treatments to remove any unwanted hairs, but wait at least 24 hours after the treatment and do not shave if there are any adverse effects such as swelling, blistering, or discomfort.
Why winter is an ideal time to consider laser removal
Hair removal in winter may not be your key priority, but as it often requires multiple treatments spaced at least four to six weeks apart, starting your sessions now will give you plenty of time to achieve smooth hairless skin by the summer.
It’s also easier to keep your skin protected from the sun during the winter months, as most likely you’ll wrap up before going outdoors and the sun is less strong. Your skin has less chance of becoming hot and irritated, and should you have an adverse reaction you will be able to keep your skin protected and out of sight under layers of loose clothing.
You’ll feel confident all year round, with less hassle and time spent worrying about your usual hair removal routine, and the ability to show off smooth hair-free skin in your festive party outfits. You’ll also beat the rush by getting all your laser removal sessions in place before demand ramps up in spring and summer!
