The removal of hair with the laser is the only technique that guarantees their reduction or disappearance permanently. The overgrowth of unwanted hair in various areas of the body may be due to genetic factors or certain diseases. The laser is commonly used to remove them on the face, neck, armpits, chest, back, groin, arms, legs, fingers and feet. Before the treatment you should make an appointment with the dermatologist to get more information on the method, on the side effects and to know if you are a suitable subject for this procedure based on the color and characteristics of the hair and skin tone. In this article you will find various tips to follow to prepare before treatment.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Before the Appointment
Step 1. Avoid sun exposure, use tanning beds or self-tanning creams for at least one month before the laser session
The skin should be as clear as possible. For this reason many people choose to undergo laser treatment in the winter.
Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 SPF if you need to spend a lot of time outdoors and if the area you want to shave is exposed to UVA / UVB rays
Step 2. Avoid using tweezers or waxing the area for at least 2-4 weeks before the laser session
Shaving is not a problem but these other hair removal techniques can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. It is also necessary that the hairs are not lightened.
Step 3. Shave the area to be treated, as explained in the session before the appointment
This should usually be done a day or two before your appointment. The hair follicles should be visible but if the hairs are too long, laser removal may be more painful.
Step 4. Take oral antibiotics, if prescribed by your doctor
Step 5. Clean your skin and do not apply any cosmetics, lotions or creams
If you apply deodorant, it will need to be removed before treatment.
Method 2 of 2: During the Appointment
Step 1. Wear clothing that leaves the area to be treated uncovered or that is very loose fitting
Often a soothing cream is applied after the laser and it is not recommended that it be absorbed by the cloth. A tight or uncomfortable garment will annoy you if you have sensitive skin.
Step 2. Your doctor or beautician will apply anesthetic cream or a warm washcloth to the area before treatment
He might also shave the area if needed.
Step 3. Put on the protective goggles
Advice
Dark hair on fair skin is the one that responds best to laser treatment. If the skin is dark, in fact, it will not absorb the light emitted by the laser. There are special lasers for people of color and topical treatments can be used to increase the effectiveness of the laser for those with blond or gray hair. Shave the area to be treated four weeks before treatment
Warnings
- Complete hair removal cannot take place in a single treatment. Hair grows in different stages and the laser only works on those that are in the active stage. A realistic expectation for the first session is a removal of about 10-25%.
- It is important to follow the instructions given by the dermatologist for the phase before the treatment, in order to ensure the maximum effectiveness of the laser and reduce discomfort during the session.
