At Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center, we know unwanted body hair has long been the cause of low self-esteem in many people, especially females. But, not anymore, with the advent of laser hair removal, this age-old problem has been taken care of in an impeccable manner. Today, women need not go to a salon for a wax every fortnight, nor do men with abundant chest hair need to shy away from showing off their lean bodies.
But, as is the case with any cosmetic procedure, you will need to take steps towards maintaining the health of your skin post laser hair removal.
Here is a small list of tips to help you in this:
- For a span of 48 hours, post your Laser Hair Removal Treatment, make sure that you do not take a hot bath. You must also stay away from steam rooms and saunas during this time. Your skin will need some time to settle, and exposing it to heat wouldn’t help.
- In case of any redness or pain, it is advisable to apply an ice-pack on the treated skin.
- After facial hair removal, you must avoid using makeup for at least 1-2 days. If necessary, opt for mineral-based makeup only.
- After underarm’s hair removal treatment, it is recommended not to use deodorants for 24 – 48 Hours because it may cause discomfort.
- Skin exposed to lasers is often sensitive, and is prone to darkening. It’s for this reason you must always put sunscreen before going out in direct sunlight, especially if you are dark skinned. Ideally, a sunscreen with SPF 20 or upwards should be used.
- If there is need, a post-care calming cream can be used, especially if your skin is very sensitive. You may ask your doctor to prescribe you one.
- In case of facial hair removal, it is best that you stay away from topical medications and/or anti-acne creams for at least a week or two.
- Avoid sport activities and extensive exercise in order to avoid sweating and heating up your body because it may cause irritation in the treated area.
4 Tips for Looking After Your Skin In Between Laser Hair Removal Sessions
Laser hair removal works by targeting the hair follicle and eliminating it. When performed by a skilled professional at Atlantic Endocrinology & Diabetes Center in New York, this is a very safe treatment. However, in some cases, it may irritate your skin, so it’s important to follow the right after-care tips following your procedure.
Here are 4 simple steps to ensure you get the best results from your laser hair removal treatment:
- Always Protect Your Skin From the Sun
While it is always recommended that you use sunscreen when you’re outside, this is an absolute must if you’ve had a laser hair removal treatment.
Why? Even if you are exposed to the sun for just short periods of time, recently lasered skin is at a higher risk of:
- Photodamage
- Darkening
- Premature Aging
- Pigmentation
Extra Tip: Always use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 to cover the treated area. Also, remember to re-apply so the efficacy of the lotion won’t diminish.
- Keep Away From Other Heat Treatments
Once you have had your laser hair removal procedure, you must avoid other heat treatments for at least 48 hours. This is because heat will open up your pores and may even irritate your skin and cause discomfort.
Make sure to avoid:
- Hot showers and baths
- Saunas
- Steam rooms
Don’t forget about the swimming pool: In addition to heat treatments, stay away from any place that involves chemicals or chlorine for at least 48 hours after your procedure. This includes swimming pools.
- Don’t Use Conventional Makeup
It’s very natural that after your treatment, the tiny follicles in the treatment area will be highly sensitive, so try to limit the number of products you use. This will help you prevent any breakouts or reactions.
Do I have to avoid makeup? It’s recommended to avoid applying normal makeup. However, you may use mineral makeup to cover up any redness, just remember to remove it fully in the evening to allow your skin to recover.
How to clean your skin after using makeup:
- Use tepid water
- Use a fragrance-free cleanser
- DON’T use harsh scrubs or exfoliators
- Use some aloe vera to cool your skin and reduce any redness
- Don’t shave or use any hair removal creams on the treated area
- Use an Ice Pack
There are few side effects associated with a laser hair removal treatment, but you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the area for at least 1-2 days. This is very normal and there are ways to ease your discomfort, including:
- Using an ice pack
- Applying aloe vera to the treated area
- Talking to your doctor about any post-care numbing or calming creams
Always consult with your skin care specialist: To protect your skin, you must discuss any skin care products you intend to use with your specialist. They can advise on whether it is safe to use them.