Pre/Post Laser Treatment

Pre Treatment Instructions

  1. Avoid tanning and use sunscreen: It is crucial that you do not tan or use self-tanning lotions, tanning beds, or sunbathe 2-4 weeks prior to and during your treatments. Protect the treated area with a "physical sunscreen/sunblock" before going outside and reapply every 3 hours.
  2. Shave the treated area: For optimal comfort and results, it is recommended to shave the treatment area on the same day before your laser hair removal session. By being closely shaved, the laser can better target the hair follicles, leading to more effective and efficient results.
  3. Hair Removal: Do not wax, tweeze, bleach, or use depilatories for 2-3 weeks prior to treatment.
  4. Duration between treatments: Wait 4 to 6 weeks between treatments. Scheduling visits closer together does not provide any advantage.
  5. Hair removal on the Face: Do not use makeup before treatment. You may use cosmetics after the treatment.
  6. Accutane or Gold Therapy: Stop using Accutane or Gold Therapy at least 6 months prior to treatment. Inform us if you plan to start using Accutane. Try to stop using Retin-A and Glycolic for at least three days before treatment.
  7. Medications: Consult with your prescribing physician if you have any questions about the medications you are currently taking.
  8. Pregnancy and previous adverse reactions: Inform us if you think you are pregnant, taking any photosensitive medications, or have had any previous adverse reactions.
  9. If you are prone to cold sores: take medication 4-10 days before treatment to prevent outbreaks.

It is important to refrain from waxing, tweezing, bleaching, or using depilatory creams between treatments.

Inform your technician if you have ever had cosmetic tattoos, cosmetic pigmentation, or permanent makeup applied near the treatment area.

Post Treatment Instructions

The Normal Healing Process: After treatment, most patients will experience redness and minor swelling in the treated areas. Some patients may develop a crust-like scab called eschar within a few days, which will heal similarly to a minor skin abrasion. It is rare, but in less than 2% of cases, temporary hypo/hyperpigmentation may occur. If you are experiencing discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen. Applying high percentage aloe-based lotions can also help with healing, pain, and sensitivity. Taking Vitamin C and other antioxidants during treatment and healing can improve your ability to heal, unless you have an allergy to them. Most patients heal without any complications.

Adverse Reactions: If you develop any burns, wash the affected area twice a day with antibacterial soap and apply Neosporin twice daily. Avoid applying makeup to burns or blisters and protect the area from sun exposure. For itching or rashes (not related to burns), you can use hydrocortisone cream.

Avoid Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure for 2-4 weeks following treatment. Always use a physical sunscreen and avoid tanning beds. Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun after treatments, increasing the risk of temporary skin discolorations. Ask our staff about available physical sunblock options.

Skin Cleansing: Practice good skin hygiene by washing the treated area twice daily with mild antibacterial soap and tepid water. Avoid hot showers, baths, hot tubs, and swimming pools for 24 hours after treatment. Avoid using abrasive products like benzoyl peroxide and Retin-A for one week after treatment. Use depilatories in between treatments and avoid rubbing or scratching the treated area. Avoid swimming, hot water/showers, soaking, and hot tubs/whirlpools until the skin heals. If you have prone to breakouts or oily skin, wait 24 hours before applying any topical products.

Sun Protection: The treated area should not be exposed to the sun for one week after treatment. Always apply a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when exposed to the sun.

Discomfort Relief: You can use cold gel packs and over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort.

Hair Regrowth: The hair will grow back, and within ten days to three weeks, it will start to shed. Do not wax or tweeze the area. Exfoliate 2-3 times a week. Shaving is the only recommended method for hair removal in the treated area.