What to Do Before a Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Hair removal is tedious and can feel like a waste of valuable time. Put a stop to the annoying cycle with laser hair removal. This treatment can eliminate unwanted hair with long-lasting results.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal targets the pigments that give your hair its color. Each hair grows from a hair follicle, a living structure that goes through cycles of resting and growth. 

At Laser Skin Care Center, we use the Cynosure Elite MPX laser for hair removal. This dual-wavelength laser treats more hair and skin tones than other lasers with minimal discomfort. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigments in the hair, heating and damaging the follicle. 

What to Do Before a Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Because laser hair removal targets the roots of your hair, treatment works best if you preserve all your hair roots. Here are a few tips for achieving the best possible results:

No Waxing

You will need to avoid waxing, plucking, epilating, or any other method that pulls out the hair roots. Avoid these treatments for four weeks before treatment. You can still shave during this time and should shave the day before your session. 

No Bleaching

Bleaching has the same effect as removing the hair root. It makes the hair invisible to the laser. Stop bleaching four weeks before treatment to let pigmented roots grow back. 

Avoid Sun Exposure

Sun exposure makes the skin more sensitive to laser energy. In addition, tanning decreases the contrast between hair and skin. Avoid tanning and even artificial tanning before treatment. 

Is There Any Downtime After Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal with the Cynosure Elite MPX has no downtime. You can return to work or other activities immediately after treatment. You may notice minor swelling or redness lasting up to a day or two. Avoid using harsh products on the area until any redness or sensitivity goes away. 

What Results Will I See With Laser Hair Removal?

You will need several treatments to achieve hair-free skin. Laser hair removal results last a long time, but you will eventually see some hair regrowth. Hairs that regrow are softer, finer, and less noticeable. Most people find that yearly maintenance treatments keep their skin smooth and eliminate the need for constant hair removal. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Good candidates for laser hair removal have reasonable expectations and are prepared for several treatments. Ideal candidates have good contrast between hair color and skin color. However, even darker tones can be treated safely and effectively with the Cynosure Elite MPX.

Take the Next Step

If you’d like to learn more about laser hair removal, please fill out the form on this page or call (562) 997-1144. Laser Skin Care Center proudly serves the Long Beach, CA, area and offers various cosmetic dermatology services.

*Individual results may vary.