Things To Know Before Your First Laser Hair Removal Treatment

If you're looking for a way to make your life easier, then laser hair removal might be on your radar. But what do you know about the process? Many people know that it's a way to remove unwanted hair, but if you've never had the process done you might not know everything. Here are some things that you should know.

How It Works

Laser hair removal uses a beam of concentrated light – a small laser – directed at the hair. The pigment will absorb the light, damaging the follicle. This damage is enough to damage the root and keep the hair from growing for anywhere from several weeks to years. Results are different for different people, and while your friend might only have needed to do it twice, you may find that you need to do it four or five times for permanent hair removal.

It Might Hurt – A Little

Using lasers to remove hair is relatively painless for many people, but for some it can be very uncomfortable. The procedure is described as being flicked with rubber bands multiple times. There's no way to know what it will feel like until you try it, but the benefits of not having to shave ever again may be worth it no matter what it feels like.

It Can Cause Breakouts

After treatment, it is not uncommon for a breakout to occur. This is due to irritation of the skin from the laser treatment. Antibacterial lotion or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone can help prevent these blemishes from forming.

Tanning is a No-No

Before having a laser treatment, you cannot tan. This is because the darker the skin, the faster the light from the laser is absorbed. It can be absorbed so quickly that it never reaches the follicles. Avoid tanning treatments from the sun, a tanning bed, or a bottle before your treatment.

Don't Go Swimming

For at least a week after you have a laser hair removal treatment, you should avoid swimming in the ocean or a pool. Chlorine and saltwater will irritate your skin and cause burning.

Avoid the Sun

For six weeks before and after your treatment, you should avoid the sun. Exposure to sunlight makes laser hair removal less effective, while exposure after the procedure can lead to complications such as burning and irritation.

As long as you have your laser hair removal treatments performed by someone who is trained to do the procedure properly, you can expect great results with little complication.