How to Care for your Skin after Laser Hair Removal Procedure

This article blog post has critical information to help you take care of your delicate skin after laser hair removal. Taking care of your skin after performing laser hair removal on yourself is essential for the hair removal procedure. It does not help to have beautiful hairless skin but always in pain or having itsy skin. 

Explain laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is considered a medical procedure that requires a concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair. A laser will pass over the hair during the process, and the IPL laser will be absorbed by melanin within the hair follicles. This light energy will be converted to heat and damage the hair sacks inside the hair. With the hair sacs damaged, the hair will stop growing and fall out.

Dr. Dusan Sekulic M.D explained," The laser device works by emitting a beam of light called an Intense Pulse Light (IPL) that gets absorbed by the dark pigments in the hair. The light itself heats the hair follicle and destroys the sacks inside the hair follicle. As a result, the hair stops growing and falls out.

Although there is a delay for further growth, it is not a permanent solution to no hair growth. You will need multiple laser hair removal procedures to find a total hair removal solution for the hair. After laser hair removal you will have to take care of you skin. We will explain how.

Why do you need the procedure?

The main reason is to eliminate and reduce unwanted hair. It is commonly done on the legs, upper lip, chin, bikini, and armpits. These are the common areas, but in truth, laser hair removal can be performed on every body part except the eyebrows and head. We also advise you not to use the device near the eyes as the light may injure your eyes. The Bareskin IPL at-home device comes with a free pair of glasses to protect your eyes from the laser light.

Here are several common reasons why people opt for laser hair removal:

Long-Term Hair Reduction:
Laser hair removal provides a long-term solution for reducing unwanted hair. Temporary hair removal methods such as shaving or waxing do not last long. Laser hair removal targets hair follicles to slow down or inhibit hair growth. It is considered a long-lasting hair reduction technique.

Laser Hair removal is convenient and fast.
Many people choose laser hair removal for the time-saving and convenience aspects. After a few treatments, you start to notice a reduction in hair growth and volume. After a few months, you will see permanent hair loss and no longer need to shave or wax.

Much less Ingrown Hairs:
Unlike other hair removal methods, laser can reduce hair without ingrown hair. Shaving and waxing can cause ingrown hairs. Laser is particularly beneficial for individuals prone to ingrown hairs.

Improved Skin Texture
Shaving and waxing are known to be harsh on the skin. Continuous shaving or waxing can sometimes lead to skin irritation, redness, or bumps. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, is excellent for the skin. It can help those who suffer from acne and improve skin texture. It also reduces the risk of irritation associated with other hair removal methods.

What are the results?

Do not expect the hairs to fall off immediately. They will get a week and fall away for the next few days or weeks. Although it may seem like its continued growth, it is actually on a decline. With repeated procedures, natural hair loss will occur in a cycle.

Therefore, the laser procedure was developed and designed to deal with the hair follicles in the new growth stage. The results may vary widely across the spectrum. Many people will experience an average of a few months or years before they can see more hair. Beware that this procedure does not guarantee permanent removal of hair. For long-term results, you will need frequent treatments.

How to Care for your skin after the laser hair removal procedure

This procedure is becoming more popular as it spreads across the planet. If you are among those who are tired of other forms of hair removal treatment such as tweezing, shaving or waxing, you may want to try laser hair removal. Many people are turning to it and have found a better solution for stubborn hair growth. The critical part is caring for the delicate skin after the laser hair removal procedure. You need to protect the skin and choose the best products for your skin. Following the instruction will allow you to ensure the treated area has been completely healed.  Here are some things to consider.

Treating the Initial Discomfort

Minor discomfort after the procedure is normal. You may feel a sensation like a mild sunburn. You are likely to notice redness or swelling because of the heat. Focus on the treated area and use ice or cold packs to numb the area. Please place the cold packs in the freezer before you perform the procedure on yourself.

All you need to do is wrap the ice cubes in a towel before using them. Direct application to the pack will only result in more irritation. You should keep the ice on the area for up to 10 minutes at least three times daily for full effect. The discomfort will soon be gone, and you will not experience any pain. Be careful not to keep the ice on your skin for too long. Instead, it would help if you took one-hour breaks. You do not want to restrict blood flow to the area, as this will only slow down the healing process.

You may also use Aloe Vera to help soothe the swelling. Some studies have proven that Aloe Vera helps eliminate the discomfort. It is also available at an affordable price in many pharmacies and local stores. Keep it refrigerated as well. Then, apply it directly to the skin. It would be best to wait for some time for it to get absorbed into the skin.

When you notice the drying phase, use a damp washcloth to wipe off the excess aloe vera. Depending on your activity preference, you may choose to leave some of it on your skin. It would help if you repeated this two and three times a day.

Purchase over-the-counter painkillers, especially if the ice packs do not work. Painkillers should be the last option if both initial solutions do not eliminate the pain. You may use OTC drugs but under the direction of a medical practitioner.

We also recommend using OTC painkillers a day after the procedure. If you experience intense pain, consult a doctor. Also, avoid aspirin because it affects blood flow by thinning it. Using aspirin could be delaying your healing time.

How do you protect the skin after the procedure?

• First, apply a cold compress on the areas. Immediately after the procedure, apply a cold compress or ice pack to the treated area. This will help reduce swelling and soothe any discomfort. Avoid direct contact with ice to prevent frostbite, and use a cloth or towel as a barrier.
• Clean the area gently. Clean the treated areas gently using a mild fragrance-free cleanser. Do not use any harsh or abrasive products that could irritate the skin.
• It is self-explanatory but needs to be mentioned. Please refrain from scrubbing or exfoliating the treated area for a few days after the procedure. Let the skin heal naturally to avoid unnecessary irritation.
• Avoid make-up and perfumes for a few days in the area. Refrain from applying makeup, perfumes, or other potentially irritating products to the treated area.
• First, keep away from sunlight, as it will irritate the area. Whenever you are outside, it is essential to keep the area covered. For example, if you have the treatment on the face, use a hat.
• Avoid other areas of excessive light, such as tanning booths, which may be too harsh for the delicate skin. You can only go to such places when you are fully healed.
• You need at least two weeks away from harmful exposure. If you have sensitive skin, you may need up to 6 weeks.
• Use sunscreen often to block the sun if you have to go outside. Suppose you have sweaty skin, the more SPF.
• Avoid heat sources as much as you can. The heat will only irritate the already exposed follicles. Stay away from hot water, steam rooms and saunas. These kinds of places should be avoided for at least a few days.

Post-treatment products to use

• A mild cleanser is one of the most important products to purchase, as it will help you keep the area clean.
• You may need a moisturizer to keep the skin nourished and protected if you have sensitive skin.
• Avoid harsh skin products for makeup if you have a laser facial treatment.
• Stay away from anti-acne creams as well.

Conclusion

As you probably have realised, laser hair removal is easy to do, but it is noteworthy to look out for your skin after your laser hair removal procedure. Most people do not experience any side effects, but it is vital to care for your skin after such a procedure. If you have any questions, please contact us for more information.

This article has been medically reviewed by: Dr. Walters (MD)