Laser Hair Removal Pre & Post Care Instructions
To ensure safe and effective results, please follow these guidelines:
2 WEEKS BEFORE
•No waxing, threading, tweezing, or depilatory creams
(Shaving is allowed — the hair follicle must be intact.)
•AVOID sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners
•Stop retinoids, exfoliating acids, or harsh skincare products on the treatment area
•AVOID chemical peels or other laser treatments on the area
3–5 DAYS BEFORE
•Discontinue AHA/BHA acids, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid.
• Let us know if you have any history of cold sores so we can prophylactically treat you with an anti-viral (valtrex).
24 HOURS BEFORE
•Shave the treatment area closely
•Clean skin only — no lotion, deodorant, makeup, or oils
MEDICATION NOTICE
•Inform your provider if you are taking photosensitizing medications (antibiotics, Accutane within 6 months, etc.)
•Pregnancy must be disclosed (certain areas may be avoided)
POST-TREATMENT CARE
Mild redness and warmth are normal and usually subside within a few hours.
IMMEDIATELY AFTER
•Apply cool compresses or aloe if needed
•Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers
•Avoid touching or picking the area
24–48 HOURS AFTER
•No hot showers, baths, saunas, or steam rooms
•Avoid workouts or excessive sweating
•No deodorant immediately after treatment
•Avoid makeup on facial areas for at least 24 hours
3–5 DAYS AFTER
•Avoid exfoliation, scrubs, retinoids, or acids
•Hair may begin to shed — do not pull it out; let it fall naturally
•Shaving is allowed if needed
SUN PROTECTION
•Avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks
•Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily to treated areas
•No tanning beds or self-tanners
WHAT TO EXPECT
•Hair reduction occurs gradually over multiple sessions
•Treated hairs will shed within 7–14 days
•Mild swelling around follicles (“peppering”) is normal and some areas could get itchy
•Results improve with each session as hair growth cycles are targeted
WHEN TO CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER
•Blistering, crusting, or burns
•Persistent redness or swelling beyond 48 hours
•Signs of infection
IT IS IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW THE SPECIFIC AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED TO ENSURE THE BEST POSSIBLE HEALING AND RESULTS