Hair removal has always been the part of my beauty routine that I liked the least. It’s time consuming and for some people it has to be done several times a week which is less than ideal. Luckily, there are many shaving alternatives these days that offer smoother skin for longer.
One method that I have been very curious about trying is laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses a laser to remove unwanted hair from various parts of the body. During the procedure, a laser beam targets individual hair follicles. The heat of the laser damages the hair follicle, which prevents future hair growth. Something important to consider is that laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair; because the laser targets the pigment, so if you’re quite fair with dark hair the follicle is easier to spot. 
After a few treatments you will begin to see less hair regrowth and eventually frequent shaving will become something of the past! The number of treatments will depend on the part of the body and how well your hair follicles respond to the treatment. If you’re considering laser hair removal, there are some important skincare guidelines to follow before and after the treatment for best results.
Pre-Treatment
- Avoid waxing, tweezing or epilating 4-6 weeks prior to the treatment. You want to leave your hair follicles intact in order for the laser to target them properly. You can shave since that does not remove the follicle. Laser hair removal doesn’t require you to grow the hair out like waxing treatments do.
- Do your best to avoid sunburns 4-6 weeks before having a laser treatment. You don’t want your skin to be extra sensitive during the procedure making it more painful.
- Do not apply self tanner the week leading up to your treatment, you want your skin as pale as possible so the lasers can spot each hair.
- On the day of your treatment, don’t use any skin products such as moisturizers, creams etc.
Post Treatment
- Avoid heat treatments such as hot showers, baths and going into saunas or steam rooms for at least 24-48 hours.
- Don’t apply makeup or perfumed products to the skin within 24 hours after. Your follicles will be sensitive after contact with the laser making you prone to irritation. However, you can use aloe to soothe the skin.
- Just like before the treatment, you will want to stay out of the sun to avoid burns on your treated area.
- Don’t apply self tanner after if you are planning to get another treatment in the following weeks.
Overall, it is super important to follow these steps before and after treatment because laser hair removal takes several treatments for permanent results. Laser hair removal is a great option if you’re looking for long-term results that will make your beauty routine shorter. Now you can spend more time perfecting your winged eyeliner!
