Laser hair removal is known as the most popular option for people who wish to eliminate unwanted hair from certain parts of their bodies. While there may be other options such as waxing, shaving, or tweezing, most of these methods can take a lot of time but still result in your hair growing even faster. Thankfully, through recent years, the removal of hair through laser has been developed and has become in-demand.
Laser hair removal enables your hair to take much longer before reappearing, leaves no scars, and lets you have softer skin. Thus, it’s not surprising if many people prefer going for this instead of doing it on their own through waxing or shaving. But despite the benefits you get from laser hair removal, there are certain steps you need to take to avoid discomfort and side effects, which you may experience after the treatment.
For your guide, this article would discuss seven post-care tips you need to remember after having a laser hair removal treatment. With a proper after-care process, you can protect your skin from irritation and ensure that the treated area will heal quickly.
Chapter Overview
- 1. Apply Ice Or Cold Packs On The Treated Area
- 2. Avoid Sun Exposure
- 3. Take Cool Showers
- 4. Refrain From Doing Any Strenuous Exercise
- 5. Don’t Use Makeup And Other Beauty Products
- 6. Skip Other Hair Removal Methods
- 7. Moisturize Your Skin
- Takeaway
1. Apply Ice Or Cold Packs On The Treated Area
After the hair removal procedure, you may experience some discomfort on the treated area that’s similar to a mild sunburn. In some cases, it might also appear red or swollen. But don’t panic as this is completely normal. To ease the pain and discomfort, you can apply ice or cold packs to numb and reduce irritation on the treated area. It’s ideal if you prepare some ice cubes in the freezer before going ahead to your laser hair removal appointment.
When applying the ice, wrap it in a towel or cold packs as putting the ice directly into the skin might only worsen the irritation. You can use ice for up to 10-15 minutes thrice a day until you’re certain that the discomfort is gone. If you wish to apply the cold packs again, wait for at least an hour before reapplying as putting the cold packs too long might restrict your skin’s blood flow and slow down its healing time.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure
Another important after-care tip you mustn’t forget is to avoid the treated area from direct and prolonged sun exposure. Exposing the treated area under the sun will only irritate and might even lead to severe skin burns. It’s also vital that you avoid any outdoor activities involving being exposed to the sun for too long.
If you’re planning to go to the beach or go sunbathing, it’s best to schedule your laser hair removal appointment at least three to four weeks prior to your beach day. Furthermore, if you’re going out for some errands, don’t forget to use sunscreen for optimal protection from the sun.
3. Take Cool Showers
During the treatment process, your skin is exposed to heat to remove and destroy the hair follicles. Meanwhile, if you continue to expose your skin to other heat sources, the additional heat may only increase irritation and cause burns and blisters on the treated area.
As much as possible, you must avoid taking hot showers for up to two to three days after your treatment. Moreover, it’s also important that you avoid using hot tubs, steam rooms, and saunas. If you wish to take a bath after the treatment, you may take cool showers instead to help the area heal faster and enjoy the benefits of the treatment longer.
4. Refrain From Doing Any Strenuous Exercise
If you’re a workout junkie, it may be best if you take a break from your strenuous exercises for at least two days after the treatment. Performing intensive exercises may only boost your body temperature and eventually irritate the treated area. However, slow-pace and mild activities like walking are okay. Just make sure you avoid too much sun exposure or prolonged walking exercise as this might cause your body to overheat.
5. Don’t Use Makeup And Other Beauty Products
If you had your laser hair removal from your face, it’s crucial that you avoid using any beauty products and makeup on your face for at least 24 hours or until the redness and discomfort are gone. Forcing any beauty products in your face, especially on the treated area, will further irritate the skin and delay its healing time.
Aside from makeup, make sure to avoid using facial medications like anti-acne creams and anti-wrinkle lotions. You may only use them again after 24 hours post-treatment or when the redness has disappeared.
6. Skip Other Hair Removal Methods
Another tip to protect your skin after the treatment is to avoid doing other hair removal methods. Trying to pluck or wax off the hairs after the treatment will only destroy your hair follicles and irritate the treated area. However, you can start shaving again 24 hours after the hair removal treatment.
7. Moisturize Your Skin
Understandably, your skin will be more sensitive than usual after the laser hair removal treatment. During its healing process, you may notice how your skin is drier than average. To alleviate the dry feeling and avoid any irritation, you can use a skin moisturizer specifically created for sensitive skin. Make sure you apply it gently to avoid triggering the irritation. Doing this will keep the pores clear and promote faster healing.
Takeaway
The things and habits you do after your laser hair removal can make or break the effectiveness of the treatment. Thus, follow these post-care tips to prevent any adverse reactions and promote faster healing.
