Laser Hair Removal Pre/Post Treatment Instructions
Proper pre- and post-treatment care is essential for achieving safe, effective, and long-lasting results with laser hair removal. These steps are not just optional add-ons—they play a critical role in maximizing treatment outcomes and minimizing potential risks.
Before Your Treatment
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- Avoid sun exposure 2-3 weeks before the treatment.
- Avoid electrolysis, tweezing and or waxing for 6-8 weeks prior to treatment.
- If you have a history of herpes simplex, prophylactic antiviral therapy must be started 2 days prior to treatment and continued one week after treatment.
- The use of tanning creams, beds, or bronzers must be discontinued before and during treatment.
- Be aware that some antibiotics and other medications may cause photosensitivity, please make sure that you have been off these medications 2 weeks prior to treatment.
- Keep area that is being treated clean and clear from lotions.
After Your Treatment
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- Immediately after treatment, there may be erythema (redness) and edema (swelling) at the treatment site, sometimes leaving a feeling of sunburn sensation. This usually lasts 2 hours or longer. There maybe occasions when erythema may last up to 10 days. Aloe vera lotion can be used.
- Apply ice compress as needed.
- Hydrocortisone may be used for 3-5 days post treatment.
- No heat: such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, extremely hot showers, or strenuous activities or exercises after treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure 2-3 weeks post treatment to prevent hypo-pigmentation or hyper- pigmentation.
- Avoid picking or scratching the treated areas. Please do not use any hair removal products or methods (threading, tweezing, waxing) that will disturb the hair follicle. Shaving is permitted.
- You will notice shedding of the treated hair usually up to 2 weeks post treatment. Clean and remove the hair by washing or wiping the area with a damp cloth.
- Treat your skin gently for at least 24 hours after treatment.
