Hair Removal

What To Do Between Laser Hair Removal Sessions

The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Skin Between Laser Hair Removal Sessions

Laser hair removal is an amazing way to ditch the razor and say goodbye to waxing, but the process takes a bit of patience—and a little know-how—to get the best results. Wondering what to do between your laser hair removal sessions? Let’s discuss how laser hair removal works, why multiple sessions are essential, and how to take care of your skin before, after, and between treatments.

How Laser Hair Removal Actually Works

Laser hair removal uses targeted beams of light that zero in on the pigment (melanin) in your hair follicles. The light energy gets absorbed by the hair and converts to heat, which damages the follicle enough to prevent future hair growth. But here’s the catch: not all your hair is in the same growth phase at once. Hair grows in cycles, so some follicles are active while others are resting. That’s why you need several sessions to catch each hair at just the right time.

Why Multiple Sessions Matter

The number of sessions you’ll need is based on individual factors that will be determined during your free consultation. Sessions are typically spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. This schedule gives the laser a chance to target hair during its active growth phase each time. Even after you’re done with your initial sessions, you might need an occasional maintenance treatment once or twice a year to keep things smooth. Basically, patience pays off.

How to Prep for Each Session

Before your appointment, a little prep goes a long way:

  • Stay out of the sun: Avoid direct sunlight and tanning for at least two weeks before your session to prevent burns or skin discoloration.

  • Shave, don’t wax: Shave the treatment area about 24 hours before your appointment. Avoid waxing, tweezing, or using depilatory creams starting at least six weeks prior to treatment—your hair follicle needs to be intact for the laser to work.

  • Skip certain skincare: Steer clear of products with retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) a few days before your session, as these can make your skin more sensitive.

How to Care for Your Skin After Treatment

After a session, your skin might feel a bit like it does after a mild sunburn. Here’s how to keep it happy:

  • Cool it down: Apply a cold compress or some aloe vera to soothe any redness or swelling.

  • Avoid heat: Skip the hot showers, saunas, and sweaty workouts for at least 24 hours.

  • Be gentle: Hold off on exfoliants and other harsh skincare for a few days.

  • Protect your skin: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every day to prevent sun damage, since your skin will be extra sensitive.

Our post-care page has more great advice to keep your skin in top shape after a session. 

What to Do Between Laser Sessions

So, what’s the best way to care for your skin between appointments? Here are some tips:

  • Don’t wax or tweeze: These methods remove the hair root, which the laser needs to work. Stick to shaving if you need to tidy up.

  • Moisturize: Keeping your skin hydrated helps it recover and stay healthy.

  • Keep up with sun protection: Even between sessions, avoid tanning and apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from irritation and hyperpigmentation.

  • Be patient with shedding: You might notice hairs falling out a few days to a week after a treatment—this is totally normal! Let them shed naturally and avoid scrubbing or picking.

Stay Smooth and Confident Between Sessions

Laser hair removal can be life-changing, but it’s not a one-and-done deal. Knowing how to care for your skin before, during, and between sessions will set you up for the best results. Stick to the recommended schedule, follow your pre- and post-care instructions, and practice a little patience. Smooth, hair-free skin is just around the corner.

Want to learn more? Book a free consultation with one of our treatment specialists. 

References

  1. “Comparing Traditional and in Motion Nd:YAG Laser in Hair Removal: A Prospective Study,” Medicina, September 2, 2022.
  2. “Integrative and Mechanistic Approach to the Hair Growth Cycle and Hair Loss,” Journal of Clinical Medicine, February 2023.