If you haven’t noticed, laser hair removal is by far the most effective treatment as compared to other methods such as waxing and shaving. It is also less costly over time. Before booking an appointment for this procedure, here are a few crucial things you need to do.
1. Don’t ditch the razor
Having a laser hair removal appointment should not be a reason for you to ditch your razor immediately. You will need to shave before the appointment because the laser needs to target the hair follicle at the root. Long hair sticking out of the skin will obstruct the laser and absorb the laser energy itself, meaning your results will be minimal. You should also be careful to shave and not tweeze/wax since tweezing pulls out the hair root which is supposed to be targeted by the laser.
2. Avoid tanning beds
The best time for undergoing laser hair removal is when the skin is at its natural color. Thus, you should make sure to avoid tanning beds for at least four weeks before your appointment. If natural sunlight has tanned you, you will also be advised to skip laser hair removal at least until you are no longer sunburnt or suntanned. Skin discoloration is the last thing you need when undergoing laser hair removal.
3. Avoid fake tans too
Applying self-tan might seem like a great idea now that you have been discouraged from using sunbeds. Unfortunately, you will not be able to receive treatment when wearing a self-tan. Tanning lotions used to darken the skin will only serve to absorb laser energy as opposed to the hair follicle. This will not only lead to a risk of burns or blisters because of excessive light energy absorption but also reduce the efficiency of the treatment. You should also avoid self-tanners for at least four weeks after treatment.
4. Skin care products
On the treatment day, you will have to skip on moisturizers, lotions or oils to avoid complications and a possibility of discoloration. The skin should be completely free from any skin care product. If you are on prescribed facial creams for acne, avoid its use for at least two to four weeks before treatment. It is vital to ensure your skin is not too sensitive to the laser hair removal procedure.
5. Check with the doctor
It is imperative to check with the doctor if you are on any prescribed medication. Some medications may limit your ability to have laser hair removal treatment at that particular time.
If you wish to deal with unwanted hair on your body, ZO Skin Centre can help you with laser hair removal treatment. Schedule a consultation with us to have all your laser hair removal questions answered.
