How To Prepare For Laser Hair Removal – A Beginner’s Guide

Are you fed up with the endless cycle of shaving, waxing and plucking? With summer not so far away, perhaps you’re contemplating laser hair removal. But before taking the plunge, there are a few things to know so you can make an informed decision. 

Unsure where to start? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for laser hair removal.

Schedule a consultation 

Like any cosmetic procedure (and laser hair removal is no different) it’s vital to schedule a consultation. 

Even though laser hair removal falls under the umbrella of a cosmetic procedure, it’s best to give it the same level of consideration as you would a medical procedure.

Start by finding a clinic nearby that's licensed and certified for laser hair removal. You can ask your friends for recommendations or check online reviews. Once you find a place you trust, set up an appointment where you can chat with experienced providers. 

As a newcomer to laser removal, a consultation is super important and will help you determine whether the procedure is right for you. 

Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions

During the consultation,  you’ll have an opportunity to get all the answers you need. This is when you and the technician talk about your possible treatment. They'll also ask about your medical history, so mention any past skin issues or if your skin scars easily.

Once they've finished asking about you, it's your turn to ask questions.

Ask how many sessions you'll need and how well the treatment works, so you know what to expect. Find out what happens during the process, how long it takes, and what tools they'll use.

Don't forget to ask about the possible risks, like irritation, scarring, or changes in skin color.

Lastly, ask about the cost and if there are payment plans or special deals available.

Don’t rush into anything

If you're absolutely sure you want to proceed with the treatment, you can go ahead and schedule your first session right after your consultation. However, if you're feeling uncertain, take a day or two to mull it over. Remember:

• It's important to ensure it fits your budget. Take time to weigh the pros and cons before committing.
• While laser hair removal is generally safe, there can be minor side effects. Factor this in when making your decision.

When you're ready and confident that laser hair removal is the best choice for you, go ahead and book your first treatment session.

Once you’ve decided to take the plunge you need to know how to prepare for laser hair removal. So here goes …

Follow the pre-treatment instructions

Your technician will give you specific instructions on what to do (and what not to do) before your first session. It's crucial to follow these instructions closely. Ignoring them could affect your results or even lead to rescheduling your appointment for later.

So, what are some of these instructions?

The process starts about six weeks before your first session. During this time, do not pluck or wax. Laser hair removal targets the hair follicle, which needs to be intact.

Additionally, it's essential to avoid tanning or using self-tanning products for six weeks before your appointment. Why? Tanning increases the melanin in your skin, and it's better to have natural melanin levels during treatment. Therefore, try to minimize sun exposure as much as possible.

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal in the days leading up to your appointment

As your first treatment approaches, there are additional guidelines to keep in mind.

In the days leading up to each session, it's advisable to steer clear of certain medications like blood thinners, NSAIDs, and pain relievers.

The day before your appointment, ensure you shave the treatment area unless your technician advises otherwise.

A day or two prior, consider taking pictures of the area for comparison before and after the treatment.

Right before your appointment, take a shower and thoroughly cleanse the area. Make sure it's completely dry, avoiding any lotions, sunscreen, or moisturizers. Your skin should be clean, dry, and free of any skincare products during treatment.

Get in the right mindset

Laser hair removal is generally tolerable for most people, though some may experience minor discomfort. However, if you're particularly sensitive to pain, it's wise to brace yourself for slight discomfort.

Before your initial session, ensure you're completely comfortable with the procedure. If you have any doubts, take some extra time to think things through before proceeding.

If you're ready to bid farewell to unwanted hair permanently, it's an exciting prospect! Imagine the freedom from waxing or shaving after a few sessions!

Results vary depending on factors like skin type, color, and hair color. Yet, one thing remains consistent:

Adhering to the correct pre-treatment steps yields the best outcomes.

How to prepare for laser hair removal a quick summary 

• Start by selecting a reputable technician with proper licensing and certification. 
• Schedule a consultation to discuss your medical history, payment options, and the treatment process.
• Don't hesitate to ask questions to fully understand what to expect.
• Follow the pre-treatment guidelines in the days leading up to your session. 
• After each treatment, follow post-care instructions provided by your technician.

By diligently following these steps, you can finally bid farewell to unwanted hair growth!

Are you considering laser hair removal?

At Gilded Leaf Medspa, our patients can experience cutting-edge Aerolase laser technology. With this advanced system, treatment is performed without the handpiece touching the skin, eliminating the need for gels and ensuring optimal hygiene. We can target any area of your body with ease, with a gentler and less painful alternative to traditional lasers. 

Schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Gilded Leaf MedSpa. We also offer a choice of payment plans and benefits when you sign up for our membership plan.