Are you considering laser hair removal this summer? This effective cosmetic procedure can significantly reduce unwanted hair on your face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini area, and more. Whether you’re wondering how to prepare for bikini laser hair removal, a Brazilian, or a full-body treatment, it’s important to know what to do before laser hair removal to get your skin ready for the best results.
Bellissima Laser Hair Removal in San Antonio is here to guide you through the process! Follow our tips to ensure you’re fully prepared for your session. Keep reading and let’s explore the essential steps of how to prepare for laser hair removal, highlighting important laser hair removal “before and after” aspects to help you achieve the smooth, hairless skin you desire!
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Before we dive into how to prepare for laser hair removal, understanding how the procedure works is key. Laser hair removal involves using a laser that emits light absorbed by the pigment in the hair. This light energy is converted to heat, which damages the hair follicles, thus inhibiting future hair growth. This can lead to permanent hair removal, giving you a lasting smoothness.
Free Laser Hair Removal Consultation
The first step of how to prepare for laser hair removal is to consult with an expert at a trusted laser hair removal studio like Bellissima Laser Hair Removal in San Antonio. Prior to any treatment, a free consultation at Bellissima will set the foundation for your laser journey. Your consultation is essential in order to determine if you are a good candidate for laser hair removal and discuss what to know before laser hair removal. Plus, you and your technician will discuss your aesthetic goals, review your medical history, and examine your skin and hair type. This ensures our laser treatment settings are customized to your specific needs, which enhances both effectiveness and safety. At the end of your consultation, your Bellissima technician will go over how to prepare for laser hair removal and review the following steps:
What to Do Before Laser Hair Removal
1. Stay Out of the Sun
Avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks before your laser hair removal treatment. Sunburned or tanned skin can complicate the effectiveness of the laser treatment and increase the risk of side effects. If you must be outdoors prior to laser hair removal, wear protective clothing and/or use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
2. Shave the Area
One of the most common questions we get is, “Do you shave before laser hair removal?” The answer is yes, you should shave before laser hair removal. Please shave the treatment area 24 to 48 hours before your session. Shaving before laser hair removal removes the hair above the skin that can otherwise burn and cause irritation when the laser hits it, but leaves the hair shaft below the surface intact for the laser to target. Shaving is an important part of how to prepare for laser hair removal.
3. Cleanse Your Skin
What to do before laser hair removal to prepare your skin? Nothing complicated– just keep it clean. Make sure your skin is clean and free of cosmetics, lotions, and creams before you come in for your appointment. Any residue can affect how the laser interacts with your skin.
4. Avoid Other Hair Removal Methods
Can you wax before laser hair removal? The answer is a definitive no. Waxing before laser hair removal removes hair by the root, which disturbs the hair follicle and interferes with the laser hair removal process. Avoid waxing and similar root-based methods like plucking or electrolysis for at least six weeks before treatment.
5. What to Wear Before Laser Hair Removal
Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your treatment. Wearing soft, roomy clothes before and after laser hair removal will help avoid any irritation in the treated areas post-procedure.
During the Treatment
If you follow our tips for what to do before laser hair removal, then you can expect your laser hair removal session at Bellissima to be a quick and straightforward procedure. Depending on the area being treated, it might take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. We will provide protective eyewear, and optionally apply a topical numbing gel to your skin to ensure comfort.
Aftercare and Expectations
Skincare Before and After Laser Hair Removal
Even if you follow closely what to do before laser hair removal, you’ll likely notice redness and swelling similar to sunburn immediately after your treatment. This is totally normal and should subside within a few hours to a few days. Cool compresses and moisturizers will help soothe the skin.
Just as protecting your skin from the sun is an important way to prepare for laser hair removal, it’s also crucial to continue doing so afterward. Continue using sunscreen daily to protect your skin and maintain the results of your laser treatment.
You can also accelerate the shedding process after laser hair removal by lightly exfoliating your treatment area. There’s no need for harsh scrubbing—simply use a soft loofah or washcloth to gently buff the treated area. Start this practice three days after your treatment to aid in the shedding and achieve smoother skin.
Check out our blog for more laser hair removal aftercare tips!
Follow Up Treatments
Consistency is key to achieving the best laser hair removal results. Multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are necessary to catch all hair in its active growing phase, ensuring permanent hair removal results. The amount of sessions needed varies by person, but you won’t have to worry about the cost of extra sessions at Bellissima. Thanks to our Unlimited Treatments and Lifetime Touch Ups Guarantee, all of your follow-up and touch up treatments are included in your original price!
Best Laser Hair Removal in San Antonio
At Bellissima Laser Hair Removal, we’re committed to providing you with a comfortable and effective laser hair removal experience at one of our two posh San Antonio treatment centers– in La Cantera or Live Oak. From understanding what to do before laser hair removal to seeing the transformative before and after results, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Now that you know how to prepare for laser hair removal, are you ready to start your journey to smoother, more beautiful skin? Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
