How To Prepare for Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a great way to remove unwanted hair – if you prepare properly. The team at Tulsa Hills Cosmetic and Laser Skin Center in Tulsa, OK shares some important tips in this guide.

Avoid Sun Exposure and Tanning Beds

Laser hair removal can react badly with sun exposure or tanning light exposure. It can cause pain, blistering, and discoloration. It’s important that you avoid such exposure for at least two weeks before your treatment to prevent such issues from occurring.

Shave – Don’t Wax or Tweeze

It’s important that your skin in the treatment area be void of any hair, so be sure that you shave 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. Don’t tweeze or wax, though, as this can damage the hair follicle and make the treatment ineffective.

Clean Your Skin

Take a bath or shower before your appointment. Do not apply any lotions, creams, oils, or other products to your skin. Do not use any self-tanner for two weeks prior to treatment.

Stay Clear From Most Skin Products

Many everyday products you use for your skin can actually increase your photosensitivity, which can increase your risk of burning. You’ll need to avoid using them for a few days before your laser hair removal appointment. These include products with ingredients like retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. If you’re uncertain about whether your products are safe, Dr. Fischer and our team at Tulsa Hills Cosmetic and Laser Skin Center in Tulsa, OK are happy to help.

Avoid Other Skin Treatments In the Area

If you have any treatments like Botox injections, microdermabrasion, or something similar on the agenda, you’ll need to wait at least two weeks before having laser hair treatment. Be sure to divulge any treatments you have scheduled for that area during your consultation to receive the best timeline.

Dress Comfortably

Having your skin and hair follicles treated can cause some irritation. It’s a good idea to wear loose, comfortable clothing to prevent additional irritation.

Talk to Your Provider About Medications

If you take any type of medication, it’s important to speak with your laser hair removal specialist. Not all medications create issues, but some do. Some can make you more prone to blistering and burning. Others can prevent the laser treatment from being effective. In such cases, medication may need to be altered for a period.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment for laser hair removal, give our team at Tulsa Hills Cosmetic and Laser Skin Center in Tulsa, OK a call at (918) 293-1287.