Procedures like laser hair reduction are safe and non-invasive, but some people are still apprehensive about going to a skin specialist for them. It is understandable; although minimal, there is still the risk of side effects like skin irritation and pigment changes. Here are things to keep in mind when going for this procedure.
You will have a skin patch test
If you go to a reputable clinic, the first thing they will do is analyse your skin so they can understand its needs. Different skin types react to lasers differently, which is why patch tests are necessary before the treatment begins. If they find your skin type suitable for laser hair reduction, the clinician will provide you with a date for your first session.
Abstain from waxing and tweezing
Your laser clinician will inform you of pre-treatment guidelines you must follow. One of the things you must do is refrain from waxing or tweezing your hair since these pull the hair out from the roots. Lasers work on hair follicles, so if you go for waxing or tweezing there will be nothing to treat until the hair grows back. Stop plucking or waxing your hair for at least six weeks before your first appointment.
Shave the area before the treatment
Shave the area that will undergo laser hair reduction treatment 24 to 48 hours before the session. Doing this improves your chances of getting better results since the follicle will still be intact, but it won't be visible above the skin. A smaller strand allows the laser to work directly on the roots instead of the length of the hair.
Keep yourself protected from UV rays
Avoid sun exposure or sunbathing when you're planning laser hair removal treatments. If you have tanned skin, wait until it fades for you to start treatments. Lasers on tanned skin can cause inflammation and lead to blisters, so cover yourself and wear sunscreen if you're going out before your laser appointment.
Avoid creams and cosmetics
Before going to the clinic for your appointment, make sure you had not applied cosmetics on the area that will receive the treatment. Wash it with mild soap and make sure there are no traces of makeup, lotion, deodorant, and the like. Save the moisturising for the days after your treatment; your skin needs to be dry and clean. Also, if you bleach your skin, stop for at least six weeks before the session, so you are sure that the hair reverts to its normal pigment.
Inform your clinician of any medications
Whether you're applying ointments or taking oral medications, you have to inform your laser clinician of any medication you are taking. Some medicines make the skin sensitive to light, which makes it prone to burns or blistering.
Prepare for the treatment itself
The laser clinician will typically complete the treatment over six to twelve sessions, spaced from four to six weeks apart. As such, you have to exercise caution in your other activities. Do not plan beach holidays, avoid sun exposure, and carefully follow instructions for aftercare.
Conclusion - Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair reduction treatments can cause anxiety in some people, but there is nothing to fear about these procedures. As long as you are mindful of what you need to do before and after laser hair treatment sessions, you'll surely see the best results from it in no time.
Discover the secret to great skin at Advanced Laser Clinic. We are a skin laser clinic in Point Cook, offering state-of-the-art, non-invasive procedures suitable for all skin types. Book an appointment today or contact us for more enquiries on 03 8360 9495!
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