Specialist Recommends: What Not to Do and for How Long After Laser Hair Removal
Photo: freepik.com/Freepik
One of the most demanded procedures in the beauty care field at the moment is laser hair removal. It is a modern and effective unwanted hair removal procedure that, unlike other methods, provides permanent and long-term results. Laser hair removal allows not only saving time, but also significantly reduces such unpleasant problems as ingrown hairs, skin irritation, inflammation, rashes and allergic skin reactions promoted by aggressive hair removal procedures such as shaving, depilation or electrolysis.
Moreover, one of the most significant advantages of laser hair removal is the possibility to get rid of excess hair from almost any body area, including face, armpits and bikini area, so laser hair removal is increasingly chosen not only by women, but also men.
However, for the procedure to be effective and provide the best results, it is important to follow the specialist's instructions on how to prepare for laser hair removal and what not to do between procedures. About how to care for your skin between laser hair removal procedures and what to observe before the procedure, tells laser hair removal specialist, cosmetologist at the Health and Beauty Center Sintija Vēciņa.
Before Starting the Laser Hair Removal Course
Like any cosmetic procedure, laser hair removal also has certain restrictions and precautions that must be considered and evaluated before starting the course. Therefore, the first step to starting a laser hair removal course – consultation with a specialist.
- In Latvia, laser hair removal services may only be provided by a cosmetologist or aesthetic dermatology specialist who has received the appropriate certificate for providing laser hair removal services, so before the procedure, definitely verify the specialist's education and experience.
During the consultation, the specialist evaluates skin condition, determines skin and hair type, evaluates possible contraindications and determines the approximate laser hair removal course duration depending on the treatment area. One of the most common questions asked before starting a laser hair removal course is – can this procedure be performed during pregnancy?
- Laser hair removal is not performed during pregnancy, moreover, it is recommended to refrain from starting the course also during breastfeeding.
These restrictions are related to hormonal changes in the woman's body that can reduce procedure effectiveness, moreover during this period women may experience increased skin sensitivity and discomfort during the procedure.
Other health conditions for which laser hair removal is not performed:
- oncological or autoimmune diseases;
- wounds, skin damage in the treatment area;
- dermatological diseases in the treatment area;
- epilepsy;
- diabetes;
- keloid scar formation and other skin healing disorders;
- metal implants or pacemaker in the treatment area;
- certain medications are used, such as isotretinoin or tetracycline group antibiotics.
Photo: adoria.lv
What Not to Do and for How Long Between Laser Hair Removal Procedures?
The laser hair removal procedure itself, depending on the treatment area, takes 1–2 hours and during the procedure, depending on individual body reaction and pain threshold, some discomfort is possible, about which it is definitely advisable to inform the specialist.
Latest generation laser hair removal devices are equipped with various pain relief technologies, such as cool air flow, making the procedure less unpleasant. However, to care for the skin after the procedure and reduce irritation and other unwanted reactions, it is advisable to follow several important recommendations.
- Avoid direct sunlight and solarium visits: minimum 2–3 days, but best at least 2 weeks after laser hair removal the treatment area should be protected from direct sunlight. If in summer period the treatment area cannot be covered with clothing, the skin must be treated with sunscreen with at least 30 SPF filter. Solarium visits during this period are strictly prohibited.
- Do not use irritating skin care products: between procedures, it is advisable to avoid using aggressive and irritating skin care products. It is advisable to avoid products containing alcohol, menthol, fragrances, strong essential oils and other irritating ingredients. Between procedures, the skin needs to be moisturized with gentle, as natural/hypoallergenic as possible skin care products that will reduce skin irritation and promote skin recovery processes.
- No irritating skin care procedures: about a week after laser hair removal, it is advisable to refrain from scrubbing, peeling and other cosmetic procedures that intensely irritate the skin.
- Avoid sauna and pool visits: about 2–3 days after laser hair removal, it is advisable to avoid sauna, steam room and pool visits.
- Do not wear tight clothing: to reduce skin irritation, for a few days after the procedure it is advisable to wear loose, breathable clothing made of natural materials. Synthetic, tight-fitting, irritating clothing that promotes sweating will not be the best choice, especially if the skin is particularly sensitive.
- Do not take hot baths or showers: 1–2 days after the procedure, it is advisable to wash with lukewarm or warm water, as excessively hot water can unnecessarily irritate the skin.
- Redness and swelling are a natural reaction: after laser hair removal, slight redness and swelling is a normal reaction that usually subsides in 1–2 days. However, if symptoms persist longer or intensify, it is necessary to urgently contact the specialist.
- Hair removal between procedures: it is important to observe that between procedures excess hairs may only be removed with a razor, and arriving for the next procedure, hairs must be shaved.
Entrust Beauty Care to the Health and Beauty Center Adoria Team!
Therapeutic and aesthetic cosmetology, laser hair removal, waxing and other beauty procedures at the Health and Beauty Center Adoria, Riga, A. Čaka Street 70–3. We also offer botulinum toxin injections and other aesthetic dermatology injections performed by dermatologist, aesthetic dermatology certified specialist Dr. Jevgēnija Čumakova.