If you’re sick of the razors, waxing, and frustration of frequent hair removal, laser hair removal is a great way to get touchably smooth skin for the long term.
In our Mt Vernon, WA, plastic surgery and aesthetics practice, led by double board-certified and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Grant, we use state-of-the-art technology for laser hair removal.
The Elite+ laser from Cynosure combines alexandrite and Nd: YAG wavelengths to target hair follicles at different depths for more efficient hair removal. This powerful technology is safe for all skin types — and following a few important guidelines can ensure you get the best possible results and minimize any potential side effects.
Here’s a list of the key do’s and don’ts to help you prep for your laser hair removal session.
Do’s for Laser Hair Removal Preparation
In the days and weeks ahead of laser hair removal, we recommend:
- Shaving: On the day of your first session, shave the treatment area. If hair remains, it can prevent the laser from properly targeting the follicle under the skin. With smooth skin, the laser passes harmlessly through the surface and precisely damages the follicles to stop regrowth.
- Stay Out of the Sun: Avoid prolonged sun exposure (yes, this includes tanning beds!) for at least two weeks before you start laser hair removal. When your skin has extra melanin on the surface (as with a tan), the laser could mistakenly target your skin versus the melanin in the hair follicles, causing patchy results.
- Hydrate: Plenty of water is always a good idea, especially before laser hair removal. Well-hydrated skin helps the laser work efficiently and minimizes the risk of dryness or damage.
Don’ts for Laser Hair Removal
Some of the most important things to avoid before laser hair removal are:
- Skin Irritants: If you use skin care products like Retin-A or glycolic acid, stop at least one week before your first session. These products can increase skin sensitivity, increasing the risk of irritation during the procedure.
- Waxing, Tweezing, or Sugaring: While you must shave just before laser hair removal, you must avoid other hair removal techniques for at least two weeks before each session. These methods pull hair out from the root and make the laser unable to target melanin in the hair follicles.
- Lotions or Creams: Avoid applying lotions, oils, deodorants, sunless tanners, or makeup to the treatment area on the day of your session. These products can prevent the laser from working efficiently.
Laser Hair Removal in Mt Vernon, WA
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can get on the path to smooth, sleek, and touchably soft skin — and leave shaving or waxing behind forever. Call Dr. Jonathan Grant at 360-336-1947 in Mt Vernon to book your consultation today.
