What to expect before, during and after your Laser Hair Removal Appointment.

Tired of endless shaving, waxing, and unwanted stubble?

Laser hair removal offers a path to smooth, effortless confidence, and Age Management and Aesthetics is here to be your guide through your upcoming laser hair removal appointment. We'll answer all your burning questions (pun intended!) about this popular treatment.

Before Laser Hair Removal Appointment

Consultation is Key:

Your laser hair removal journey begins with a consultation. This free 10-20 minute office visit allows our esthetician to assess your hair and skin tone, discuss your goals for treatment, and explain how laser hair removal works.

Not Everyone Has Dark Hair and Light Skin:

Traditionally, laser hair removal has been most successful for those with light skin and dark hair because this contrast helps the laser target the hair follicle. However, don't despair if you have blond hair or darker skin! Our Diolux laser is a game-changer. This innovative technology can effectively treat a wider range of skin tones and hair colors than older lasers.

Here are some tips to maximize your results:

• Schedule a Consultation: An experienced provider will assess your candidacy and estimate the number of treatments you may need.
• Medication Check: Discuss any medications you're currently taking, as some can cause sun sensitivity and increase the risk of burns.
• Hold the Harsh Products: Avoid skincare products containing strong ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroxy acid, and benzoyl peroxide for a while before treatment.
• Embrace Paler Skin: Greater contrast between your skin and hair follicles yields better results. Consider scheduling your treatment in the fall or winter, or avoid tanning (sun, tanning beds, spray tans, self-tanning products) for at least 6 weeks beforehand. Tanned skin can lead to long-term pigmentation issues after laser treatment.
• Skip the Plucking and Waxing: Avoid plucking, waxing, or bleaching your hair for 6 weeks before your appointment. Plucking removes hair by the root, decreasing the effectiveness of laser treatment.
• Shave Strategically: Shave the day before your treatment. Shaving encourages hair follicles to enter their active growth stage, which is ideal for laser targeting.
• Cleanliness is Key: Shower right before your appointment and cleanse the treatment area to remove dirt and oil. Avoid using any skincare products (including moisturizer) after cleansing.
• Skip the Lotions: Avoid lotions, oils, and deodorants before treatment. Arrive with clean, dry skin. Moisturizers and other products can prevent the laser from reaching the root, hindering its effectiveness.
• Hold Off on Injectables: Avoid Botox and dermal fillers for at least two weeks before your appointment. Additionally, postpone any treatments that increase skin sensitivity, such as microdermabrasion or chemical peels. Discontinue using photosensitizing products a week before treatment.

During Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Review and Preparation:

During your appointment, your doctor or technician will review the treatment area(s) with you. They may mark the treatment boundary with a line on your skin for areas like the bikini line or face.

The treatment area will be cleansed and prepped while your technician explains what to expect. The sensation of laser hair removal varies, but most describe it as similar to a rubber band snap. A numbing cream can be applied if you're concerned about pain.

Safety First:

While the treatment area is exposed, all other areas will be covered with clothing or sheets. Everyone in the room, including you, will wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light.

After Laser Hair Removal

Temporary Side Effects:

The most common side effects are swelling and redness in the treatment area, similar to a mild sunburn. These effects should subside within 1-3 days. Aloe vera or topical cooling creams can help ease discomfort.

Hair Loss Takes Time:

Your hair won't fall out immediately, but will shed gradually over the following weeks. Hair follicles have different growth cycles, so patchy regrowth is normal. These areas will be targeted in follow-up treatments.

Here's how to care for your skin after treatment:

• Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Stick to your scheduled follow-up or maintenance treatments as directed by your provider.
• Sun Protection is Essential: Avoid the sun and tanning beds, and wear high-quality sunscreen. UV exposure can irritate treated skin and hinder hair removal.
• Avoid the Heat: For the first 24 hours after your appointment, avoid hot showers/baths,

Cool Down After Your Treatment:

For the first 24 hours after your appointment, take lukewarm showers instead of hot showers or baths. Saunas, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise can also elevate your skin temperature, so it's best to avoid them during this time. This will help minimize swelling and redness.

Sun Safety is Key:

Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks following your treatment. UV exposure can irritate treated skin and make laser hair removal less effective. Make high-quality sunscreen a daily habit to protect your skin.

Shave Smart, Not Wax:

While your hair grows back between sessions, it's best to shave rather than pluck, tweeze, thread, or wax. Shaving removes hair at the surface, leaving the root intact, which is the target for laser treatment.

Exfoliate for Smooth Skin:

Gently exfoliate the treated area 2-3 times a week using a loofah or washcloth. This helps prevent ingrown hairs by removing dead skin cells that can trap hair follicles.

Soothe Your Skin:

For the first week after treatment, avoid harsh skincare products containing retinoids or hydroxy acids. These ingredients can irritate freshly treated skin. Opt for gentle cleansers and fragrance-free moisturizers to soothe and hydrate your skin.

Skip the Scents:

Wait 48 hours before applying perfumes or deodorants to the treated area. This allows your skin time to recover and reduces the risk of irritation.