How to Care for Your Skin After Laser Hair Removal

Eliminating unwanted hair is often painful, messy, and expensive. Many Americans spend hours every week removing unwanted facial and body hair for temporary results, often with uncomfortable and unsightly side effects like rashes, ingrown hairs, swelling, and scarring.

Laser hair removal treatments are gentler, with the bonus of the results lasting much longer than the average shave or wax.

Mahdis Pedram, BSN, RN, and our team at Artem Med Spa offer a range of cosmetic treatments for healthier and younger-looking skin at our office in San Diego, California.

How laser hair removal treatments work

Laser hair removal targets the pigment in the hair follicle, damaging it and causing it to fall out. The laser emits a gentle light beam, which is transformed into heat and absorbed by the hair. 

Unlike shaving and waxing, the hair falls out on its own, so you won’t experience the pain and irritation typical of at-home hair removal products.

Once the hair follicle is damaged with laser treatment, it takes longer to grow back and may return thinner than before. Most people need multiple treatments for complete hair removal and lasting results.

How to care for your skin after laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is gentle and non-invasive. But while most people report little to no side effects, everyone is different. A little self-care after your laser hair removal treatments will help you get the best results.

Some common side effects after laser hair removal include temporary skin irritation and redness for a few hours after the procedure and possible pigmentation changes to the hair and skin around the treatment area.

To ensure the best results from your laser hair removal treatments, here are a few tips to care for your skin:

• Apply an ice pack or cold compress to reduce swelling and irritation
• Take medication like steroid cream if prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers
• Avoid direct sun exposure to the treatment area before and after your treatment
• Wear sunscreen 
• Avoid shaving immediately after your laser hair removal

Our team will discuss what you can expect from your laser hair removal treatment before your procedure and provide detailed aftercare instructions. If you develop any side effects or have concerns after treatment, contact us for more information.

For more information about laser hair removal and the cosmetic treatments available at Artem Med Spa, contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in San Diego, California.