Many people resort to laser as a way to remove excess hair, as laser is a suitable solution for all people of both sexes. Many men and women who suffer from thick and dense hair resort to laser to reduce hair in some areas, in this article we discuss the correct way to take care of Skin before and after laser sessions to ensure the best results and the least side effects.

Steps to prepare for a laser session to ensure effective results

The first step before deciding to undergo a hair-removal laser treatment, it is necessary to take into account all the side effects or complications that may accompany the procedure, and for this reason, conducting an examination about the nature of the skin and hair, and consulting a practicing dermatologist who is legally affiliated, as there are many people who perform dermatological medical procedures for the skin without Previous experience or certificates of competence, which can make the laser procedure dangerous.

Then the following tips can be followed to ensure the best possible experience:

• Stop plucking, waxing, or electrolysis about six weeks before starting your laser sessions.
• On the day scheduled for the laser session, shave using a sterile blade and dry with a clean towel.
• Avoid exposure to the sun about 6 weeks before laser hair removal.
• Ask the specialist about the possibility of using a local anesthetic to relieve the pain associated with skin exposure to the laser, or taking pain relievers before the session.

Steps to be followed when completing the laser session

• Wait about 4-5 days before shaving the hair again in case it reappears, in order to make sure that the skin will heal after being exposed to the laser.
•  Be sure to follow shaving as a method of hair removal, and avoid any method of plucking hair, such as waxing or using hair clips.
• It may reverse the effective results of laser beams.
•  Place ice bags wrapped in a heavy cloth on the skin that was exposed to the laser, as this method contributes to relieving skin irritation and redness and relieving pain if one suffers from it. However, avoid overly iced cold compresses as it may increase the irritation.
• Wear loose, cotton clothes that do not cause any friction with the skin during the first 48 hours of the session, because the skin and hair follicles are very sensitive during this period.
• Apply aloe vera gel after consulting a dermatologist about it for about 3 days after completing the session, and some may have to use a topical anti-inflammatory cream.
• Hydrate by increasing your fluid intake.
• Keep the skin clean and dry during the first 48 hours of the session.
• Use a sunscreen with a protection factor of at least SPF 50.

Some things should be avoided after completing the laser hair removal session

•  Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning rays (i.e. ultraviolet beds) during the entire treatment period, to avoid irritation and pigmentation in the skin. It is also preferable to keep the skin color as light as possible throughout the laser hair removal period, which is why doctors or specialists prefer to start laser hair removal during autumn or winter due to less skin exposure to sunlight.
•  Avoid very hot water when showering and in spas, saunas, steam rooms for about 7 days after completing your session.
• Avoid exercising during the first two days after the session.
• Avoid showering with warm water during the first 48 hours after the session.
• Avoid using any products containing perfume or alcohol on the skin or skin whitening creams during the first 48 hours of the session.
• Avoid rubbing or itching the area exposed to the laser.
• Avoid putting any cosmetics on the treatment area during the first 48 hours of the session.
• Avoid chemical or physical exfoliation of the skin or putting any pressure on it during the first 4-5 days of the session, in order to give the skin sufficient time for recovery.
• Avoid swimming and exposure to chlorinated water during the first 48 hours of the session.

Side effects that may happen after completing the laser session

It is normal for some to suffer from side effects upon completion of the laser session, including the following:

• Suffering from temporary skin irritation, which may be accompanied by swelling and redness, and it usually disappears after a few hours of the laser session.
• The laser may cause a change in the color of some areas of the body, it may increase the darkening or whiteness of the skin, and this symptom is more common in people who have been exposed to the sun before or after laser hair removal.
• The laser may cause bruises or skin peeling in the exposed skin. Fortunately, these symptoms are rare.

 References:

- “Laser Hair Removal.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 22 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-hair-removal/about/pac-20394555.
- Gardner, Stephanie S. “Laser Hair Removal: Benefits, Side Effects, and Cost.” WebMD, WebMD, 26 July 2021, www.webmd.com/beauty/laser-hair-removal#1-3.
- MULHOLLAND, STEPHEN. “Laser Hair Removal Aftercare.” Spamedica, 19 May 2021, www.spamedica.com/blog/aftercare-laser-hair-removal/.
- “Pre Care & after Care.” MyBeauty, MySkin, MyLaser Laser Hair Removal, East London, mylaser.uk/need-to-know/pre-and-after-care.
- “Laser Hair Removal.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 22 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-hair-removal/about/pac-20394555.