Laser Hair Removal Pre + Post-Care

It is important to follow these guidelines before and after your laser hair removal treatment to achieve the best results and minimize any potential side effects.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

One Week Before Treatment:

• Avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning products. While a tan is acceptable, sunburn must be avoided.
• Discontinue using retinoids (Retin-A/tretinoin), glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and other exfoliating products in the treatment area.
• Do not undergo chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser resurfacing treatments in the treatment area.

Three Days Before Treatment:

• If you use Retin-A (tretinoin) or other strong exfoliating products in the treatment area, discontinue use at least three days before your session.

24 Hours Before Treatment:

• The treatment area must be shaved the night before or the morning of the appointment.
• Do not wax, tweeze, thread, use depilatory creams (such as Nair), or undergo electrolysis, as these methods remove the hair follicle and will reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
• If treating underarms, avoid using deodorant on the day of the appointment.
• The skin should be free of lotions, perfumes, oils, or makeup in the treatment area.

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Post-Treatment Instructions

First 24 Hours:

• Mild redness, warmth, and swelling in the treated area are normal and should subside within a few hours to a day.
• Avoid exposure to heat sources, including jacuzzis, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms.
• Avoid swimming pools, as chlorine can irritate.
• If the underarms were treated, do not apply deodorant for 24 hours.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating, as this can increase irritation.
• Avoid touching, scratching, or picking at the treated area.

For Discomfort or Irritation:

• Apply aloe vera gel to soothe the skin as needed.
• If itching occurs, hydrocortisone cream may be applied to the treated area.
• A cool compress may be used to reduce warmth or swelling.

Shaving and Hair Maintenance:

• Shaving may continue between sessions.
• Do not wax, tweeze, thread, or use depilatory creams; these methods remove the hair follicle and interfere with the laser treatment.
• The treatment area should be shaved before each session for best results.

Skin Care and Product Use:

• Avoid exfoliation (scrubs, glycolic acid, retinoids) in the treated area for at least three days before and after treatment.
• Keep the skin hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
• Use a mild cleanser and avoid harsh skincare products.

Sun Protection:

• Avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week following treatment to prevent hyperpigmentation.
• Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily if the treated area is exposed to sunlight.

Questions/Concerns

Healing varies from patient to patient. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text our office at 602-952-8446 and ask for Saharra.

Thank you for choosing us to support your hair-free, smooth skin journey! Since 1988, our commitment to excellence has made us Arizona’s longest-running and most trusted med spa. Your satisfaction and progress are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to guiding you every step of the way.

We look forward to being your partner in this transformative process.