Laser hair removal is a saviour for anyone who’s fed up with the amount of time and money spent on shaving, tweezing, creams, waxing, etc. It’s also one of our most popular treatments, helping to remove unwanted hair from anywhere on the body, including the face, arms, legs, underarms and bikini line. Basically, anywhere except around the eyes.
Whether you’re a newbie or just want a refresher, here’s everything you need to know before your first laser hair removal appointment.
BEFORE LASER HAIR REMOVAL:
The time before laser hair removal is important, and if you’re not fully clued up about the laser hair removal process, you could start making some serious errors, which will have a negative effect on your post-treatment results.
- AVOID WAXING AND PLUCKING (SHAVING IS FINE): This is the only method of hair removal you should be doing pre-treatment, because it leaves the hair root in the hair follicle, so the laser still has something to target. You can shave the treatment area at least 12-24 hours before treatment.
- FINE-TUNE YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE, AND DON’T OVERDO IT: Try to exfoliate three days before your treatment. That way, any dead/loose skin will be removed, and the hair follicles will be easier to target. Don’t apply makeup/tanning products or topical creams like moisturisers, serums or deodorant. These substances can cover the skin, blocking the laser’s ability to target the hair follicles. You should also avoid chemical peels or laser resurfacing treatments at least four weeks before.
- AVOID DIRECT SUN EXPOSURE: Everyone loves a sun-kissed glow. But if you’re getting laser hair removal, the sun is not your friend (at least, not right now). Exposing the treatment area to UV (ultraviolet) rays in the weeks leading up to your appointment can make your skin more sensitive and increase the risk of irritation, burns, or pigmentation changes. Why? It all comes down to melanin. Sun-tanned skin has more melanin as a natural defence mechanism. Basically, the laser might mistake your skin for the hair it’s supposed to be treating, which increases the risk of adverse effects. Avoid this by trying to stay out of direct sunlight for up to 2-6 weeks before your appointment. That means also skipping the tanning beds and self-tan creams.
- WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHES: Avoid wearing tight jeans/leggings, or anything that clings to your skin after a laser hair removal session. Your skin may feel a little warm and sensitive, so the last thing you want is abrasive fabric rubbing against the treated area—especially if you’ve had a large area (like your legs) or a sensitive spot (like your bikini line) treated. Go for loose, breathable clothing—think oversized tees or relaxed-fit joggers. This helps prevent friction, irritation, and any unnecessary discomfort post-treatment. Plus, we’ll apply a soothing gel/cream, so wearing loose clothing keeps it from rubbing off onto your outfit.
DURING LASER HAIR REMOVAL:
Q. Can I wax during a course of laser hair removal?
This is a definite no. If you’re midway through a course of treatment, avoid waxing and plucking. Once you’ve completed your treatment, it’s fine to wax, but as laser is considered the most permanent form of hair removal, you may not need to.
Q. Can I tan during a course of laser hair removal?
Do not tan between treatments. Keep your skin tone at its base level as much as possible during treatment to get safer, smoother, and more effective results.
Q. How can I deal with ingrown hair during laser hair removal?
The great news is that laser treatment is the best way to actually avoid ingrown hairs. The laser can get to the root of the problem and stop ingrown hairs from occurring. Laser does not cause ingrown hairs, so you shouldn’t notice further problems developing, and you should see an improvement in the ingrown hairs you currently have.
Q. Can I reduce the pain during laser hair removal?
It’s fine to take pain relief such as paracetamol before your treatment. Also, try to avoid scratching your skin before your session, and make sure you drink plenty of water. At Eterno Aesthetics, we use lasers with built-in cooling technology, so our clients are as comfortable as possible.
Q. Is laser hair removal safe during pregnancy?
No, hair removal treatments such as laser and electrolysis are not considered safe during pregnancy.
AFTER LASER HAIR REMOVAL:
Q. Can I shave after laser hair removal?
Yes, you can, but it’s best to wait 3-4 days after your treatment to let the skin heal.
Q. Can I shower after laser hair removal?
It’s best to wait for at least 24 hours before showering. Use mild products, keep the water warm—not hot, and be gentle.
Q. Can I tan after laser hair removal?
Please don’t! Your skin will be ultra-sensitive to UV rays, so avoid sunbeds/tanning for at least 2 weeks after laser treatment.
LASER HAIR REMOVAL, SHEFFIELD
At Eterno Aesthetics in Sheffield, our highly-trained therapists will consider your skin and hair type before creating a personalised laser hair removal plan tailored to you.
Before any laser hair removal treatment, a consultation is essential. This dedicated time allows for an in-depth conversation around your desired results, an assessment of your skin, and a tailored recommendation of the most suitable method for your lifestyle.
We take a fully refundable deposit of £50 for all our consultations. Your deposit can be refunded in the clinic or redeemed against our treatments/products purchased after the consultation.
