Laser Hair Removal: A Guide to Post-Treatment Care

Laser hair removal is one of the most efficient methods for getting rid of unwanted hair. It works with concentrated beams of light aimed at the hair follicle, so no further growth is possible. Although the treatment process is relatively swift and not painful, post-treatment care is really important for maximising results while minimising discomfort. 

This guide will walk you through what happens after laser hair removal and provide many tips on taking care of your skin after the procedure. 

Here’s What You May Expect After Laser Hair Removal 

1. Redness and Swelling

Right after the treatment, you may experience redness and swelling around the follicles, which is normal; it usually subsides a couple of hours or days later. The area might be as sensitive and warm as a mild sunburn.

2. Temporary Darkening or Crusting of Skin

In other cases, the skin turns dark or develops tiny scabs over the treated area. This is normal skin healing. Scabs will flake off in a few days.

3. Loss of Treated Hair

One observes newly growing hair in the next days or weeks; however, the fact is that the observed hair strands are treated and fall out of the follicles. This indicates that the laser hits the hair and that the follicle is letting it out for healing.

4. Sensitivity to Light

Your skin will become sensitive to the sun during the course of laser hair removal. Treated skin must avoid sunlight since UV rays could, at times, cause the appearance of pigment changes on the skin and might even give you a sunburn; thus, be more careful for a few succeeding weeks in the sun.

Remember that laser hair removal will take a few sessions before achieving full results. Hair grows in cycles, and the laser can only target hairs that are in the active growth phase. Aftercare is important not only to protect the skin but also to prepare it for any upcoming sessions.

Experiences after a laser hair removal session varies from person to person. If you don’t experience any change mentioned above, do not worry! It’s normal, you will still achieve hair free and smoother skin. 

Take Care Of Your Skin After Laser Hair Removal With These Tips

Proper care for your skin after the treatment can actually help decrease irritation and recover faster. Here’s what you can do:

1. Cold Compresses To Soothe Your Skin

To address any kind of redness and swelling, use an ice pack inside a soft cloth in the event that the cloth touches the skin.

Allow applying it over the affected portion for 10 to 15 minutes periodically within your lifetime.

Due to its soothing properties and healing nature, a thin layer of aloe vera gel can be applied to the treatment area post-laser hair removal. Ensure it is pure and fragrance-free to avoid extra irritation on the treated area. This aloe vera gel is applied several times daily when the treated area feels tight or even itchy.

2. Hot Showers, Saunas, or Steam Rooms Should Be Avoided

For at least 48 hours after treatment, avoid hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms since heat will raise redness and swelling. Instead, take cool or lukewarm showers to cool your skin.

3. Resume Gym & Workout 2 Days Later

Steer clear of vigorous exercises for 24-48 hours after laser hair removal, as sweat can irritate freshly treated skin. The reason is that a highly intense workout increases blood flow and body temperature, which may cause increased redness, irritation, or even small pimples in the treated area.

4. Moisturise Your Skin With Gentle & Fragrance Free Products

The skin should be moisturised at all times after laser hair removal. Use well-chosen products. Only if the treated areas are moisturised from time to time using a fragrance-free and gentle moisturiser are one assured of softer skin and lesser chances of dryness. Avoid rich lotions containing fragrance, alcohol, and retinoids, as these can damage sensitive skin. 

5. Say No To Scratching Or Picking At

If you experience scabbing and flaking, avoid scratching or picking to avoid scarring or infections. Allow the affected skin to heal on its own. A moisturiser to prevent dryness or itching.

6. Follow Up On Time 

Optimal results with laser hair removal are achieved when you follow up with upcoming laser sessions on time. The practitioner schedules sessions according to your hair growth cycle. When you attend the session on time, it effectively addresses your hair growth and promotes reduction. You may be wondering how long does laser hair removal last, know that it depends on your hair growth, colour and skin tone. 

7. Handling Hair Removal Carefully

Some thinning may be visible between treatments. You mustn’t use wax, pluck, or hair removal creams since this damages the follicle. You can shave whatever growth and still have a completely intact follicle so that it will not be damaged when you have your next treatment. 

8. Keep the Area Clean

The treated area needs to be clean. To avoid having bacteria and other items enter your hair follicles, potentially causing irritation, use a mild cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat dry after gently cleaning. Do not use harsh scrubs, exfoliants, or abrasive towels.

9. Continue With Sunscreen

You can also wear sunscreen on the treated skin even after your skin heals to prevent ultraviolet damage, which would preserve your results. Sun protection also helps prevent skin darkening, sunspots, and other side effects that could surface from exposure to sunlight on freshly lasered skin.

Bottomline on Laser Hair Removal AfterCare

To enjoy hair-free and smoother skin, consult for laser hair removal in Bradford. It is often done in several procedures, with intervals between them measured in weeks. The post-treatment care tips assist you in maintaining your skin in between the different sessions to get the best out of each treatment. Providing adequate care after each treatment will ensure that you achieve better and longer-lasting results and maintain smooth, healthy, and vibrant-looking skin.