What You Can and Cannot Do After Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a popular treatment for removing unwanted hair from your body. With the use of advanced technology, this procedure can effectively reduce hair growth in the targeted areas. This technique is widely considered to be safe and reliable within the beauty community. Many women have enjoyed successful results after a series of laser hair removal sessions.

If this is your first time getting a laser hair removal, you may want to familiarize yourself with certain protocols after the procedure. An important part of the laser hair removal aftercare process is making sure you don't aggravate the skin. Your skin is in a delicate and sensitive state immediately after laser hair removal. It is recommended that you take extra protection measures and avoid several activities temporarily.

When you sign up for a laser hair removal treatment, our Beauty Med consultants will provide you with detailed instructions on the aftercare procedure. Here is a comprehensive rundown of what you can and cannot do after laser hair removal:

Can I wax after laser hair removal?

No, it is not recommended that you wax or shave immediately after laser hair removal. If you notice new hair growing after your laser hair removal treatment, it might be tempting to touch up on this area. However, you should not wax or pluck the hairs that grow there for at least 48 hours.

Your hair grows in cycles, and the laser treatment targets the ones that are currently growing. If new hairs appear during the day following your treatment, it is too soon to remove them without damaging your irritated skin. The good news is that you can shave the hair that grows after the treatment, and you can also use hair removal cream. However, wait a few days for the treatment to settle before you start shaving the targeted areas.

Can you exfoliate after laser hair removal?

No, you should not exfoliate your skin, at least not right after your laser hair removal treatment. The recommended time is waiting a full week and not to exfoliate the treated areas until then. Sure, gentle exfoliation can be beneficial for your skincare routine, but doing it after laser hair removal could result in severe skin irritation.

During this time, it is also important that you avoid scratching your skin. Even if your skin feels dry, don't scrub it with a washcloth when you take a bath or shower. Scratching, scrubbing, or exfoliating your irritated skin might only make it drier and itchier.

Can you moisturize after laser hair removal?

Yes, you can apply certain types of moisturizers after your laser hair removal. If the treated areas feel dry and itchy, you can soothe it with a moisturizer instead of trying to scratch the itch away.

You have many moisturizer products to choose from, some specifically designed for application after laser hair removal. However, don't use moisturizers that contain chemicals or perfume, as they might irritate your sensitive skin even more. Instead, use natural remedies like an aloe vera gel, which can gently soothe your skin without causing any aggravation.

Can I use deodorant after laser hair removal?

No, you should not use deodorant after laser hair removal. This is a common question among those who had laser treatment targeting the hair growing under your arms. The answer is that you should avoid using deodorant for the next 24 hours after the procedure. This safety precaution helps to minimize the risks of severe skin irritation.

If you had the laser hair removal procedure for your face, you should avoid using makeup and beauty products that contain perfume or harsh chemicals. Take a short break from your makeup routine and wait at least a full day before applying the cosmetics.

Should I avoid sun exposure after laser hair treatment?

Yes, you should try your best to minimize sun exposure after laser hair treatment. The recommended time is that you avoid sun exposure for at least a full week following each treatment. After the laser hair removal procedure, your skin will feel more fragile than normal. Your skin could be especially susceptible to heat and severe sunburns.

In addition, you should avoid spending time on a sunbed and using topical sunless tanning products for a minimum of one week. Give your vulnerable skin plenty of time to recover from the laser hair removal treatment before you get a tan.

Of course, minimizing sun exposure after a laser hair treatment doesn't mean you must stay inside for the whole week. If you go outdoors, wear your best sunscreen on the treated areas. A sunscreen of at least 30 SPF will protect your delicate skin from the harmful rays of the sun. The sunscreen will keep your skin healthy in between your laser hair removal treatments.

Can I shower right after laser hair removal?

Yes, you can take a cool shower right after laser hair removal. To limit skin irritation after laser hair removal, you shouldn't take a hot shower or a hot bath for 48 hours. If you want to bathe or shower, keep the water at a lukewarm temperature. This is because you want to avoid excess heat on the targeted areas of your laser treatment. For this reason, don't spend time in a sauna or a hot tub for two days after laser hair removal.

Are you ready for a laser hair removal treatment? Contact Beauty Med and our team will connect you with the best time to set up your next appointment!