Laser hair removal is a safe, effective, and popular way to permanently get rid of hair where you don’t want it, including your face, arms, back, and other areas of your body. But while laser hair removal can give you great results, taking care of your skin following treatment is important to avoid irritation.
At South Lake Medical Spa, Nicole Casavant, PA-C, and her team help patients in Clermont, Florida, get the most from their laser hair removal treatments with personalized guidance to maximize benefits while minimizing skin issues. In this post, you’ll learn some simple tips for caring for your skin after your treatment.
Use cool compresses
Right after treatment, it’s normal for your skin to be tender, red, and irritated temporarily. Applying a cool compress to the area helps relieve these effects while soothing your skin. Ice packs are fine, too, as long as you wrap the pack in a cloth to avoid damaging your skin.
Apply ointment as prescribed
If we prescribe any ointment or cream (including over-the-counter products), be sure to use it as directed. Some products prevent infection, while others support early skin healing. These products can also provide added soothing.
Avoid direct sun exposure
It’s important to limit sun exposure in the month before treatment, and it’s also important to avoid the sun for about a month afterward. That’s because the effects of the sun’s UV rays can intensify following laser treatment, and unless you’re careful, you could wind up with a serious sunburn or scarring.
Skip tanning treatments
Avoid tanning beds and booths during the healing phase of your treatment because they can be as harmful to healing skin as direct sun exposure.
Skip workouts for 48 hours
Whether you prefer to visit the gym, run, or perform other types of exercise, it’s best to avoid these activities for at least a couple of days after your treatment. That’s because when you exercise, you sweat, and perspiration can irritate the treatment area in the early stages of healing.
Delay exfoliation
It’s also a good idea to avoid exfoliating the area for 5-7 days after treatment. Like many other tips on this list, delaying exfoliation prevents irritation that can lead to more redness, swelling, and discomfort.
Use sunscreen
Even if you do your best to avoid the hours when the sun’s rays are strongest, you should still wear sunscreen every day while your skin heals. Your skin is especially prone to irritation from the sun’s UV rays, and sunscreen protects your skin from damage that could lead to changes in pigmentation.
Avoid harsh chemicals and perfumes
Before you apply any product to your skin, read the label. Make sure the products you use are gentle and non-irritating. Avoid products with menthol, sodium lauryl sulfate, or alcohol, each of which can be drying or irritating.
Cleanse gently
Washing the treatment area on the same day as your treatment is fine, but be gentle. That means avoiding drying soaps, skipping the washcloth, and blotting your skin dry rather than rubbing it.
Most people need several laser hair removal sessions during the hair growth cycle to eliminate hair completely . That’s why scheduling your appointments now is important to enjoy smoother, sexier skin this summer.
If you’re ready to learn more about laser hair removal treatment, call 352-656-6680 or book an appointment online with the South Lake Medical Spa team today.
