Can You Wax Before Laser Hair Removal

If you’re planning on getting laser hair removal done, you’ve probably seen some buzz about how it’s important to not get waxed before your appointment. But what does that mean? Why would anyone want to get their body waxed at all? And how can you be sure that you won’t mess up your laser hair removal appointment if you do?

We’re here to help. We’ll talk about why people get laser hair removal done in the first place, and then we’ll explore whether or not waxing before a laser treatment is safe for your skin and body.

One crucial recommendation from dermatologists is to **avoid waxing for at least a month** before undergoing laser hair removal. The rationale behind this advice revolves around ensuring that the laser can effectively target and remove hair from the intended area.

The Mechanism of Laser Hair Removal

The process of laser hair removal operates on the principle of **Selective Photo Thermolysis (SPTL)**. This term describes how the laser light is selectively absorbed by the skin tissues where it is aimed. Here’s how it works:

1.Laser Targeting: Concentrated beams of laser light focus on the melanin in hair follicles.
2. Localized Damage: The laser generates heat, which causes damage to the cells in the hair follicle.
3. Prevention of Hair Growth: As the roots of the hair get damaged, the hair’s ability to grow back is inhibited.

If a person waxes before the treatment, the hair may not regrow in the area for a period. Without the presence of hair follicles under the skin, the laser has nothing to aim for, leading to suboptimal results.

The Hair Growth Cycle

Understanding the hair growth cycle is essential, as each hair strand exists in its own developmental stage. The cycle can be outlined as follows:

1. Anagen Phase: This is the active growth stage where hair is firmly anchored in the follicle.
2. Catagen Phase: This is a transitional phase where hair growth slows down, and the follicle begins to shrink.
3. Telogen Phase: The resting phase where hair eventually falls out and a new cycle starts.

Over time, factors such as **gender, age, genetics, and environment** can influence hair growth rates. Generally, **six to eight sessions** of laser hair removal are recommended for optimal results.

Session Considerations

The number of sessions for laser hair removal varies per individual and the location of hair on the body. Typically:

– Session Timeline: The laser hair removal sessions can span from **12 to 24 months** for lasting effects.
– Spacing: Sessions are scheduled according to the hair growth cycle to maximize efficiency.

Preparation for the Procedure

Before the laser hair removal procedure, dermatologists advise:

–Shaving the Target Area: Shaving is encouraged as it removes surface hair while leaving roots intact. This is important because:
– The laser does not impact surface hair or skin surrounding the follicles.
– It allows the laser to focus on the roots for effective treatment.

In summary, refraining from waxing prior to laser hair removal is critical for achieving the most effective results. By following these guidelines and understanding the underlying mechanics of the procedure, individuals can optimize their hair removal experience.

What to Do Before Laser Hair Removal on Face

Before undergoing laser hair removal, it is crucial to avoid sun exposure and use a sunscreen of SPF 30 or a total sun block of SPF 50. Avoid plucking, waxing, or bleaching the hair for six weeks to preserve its root and pigment. Shave the area to be treated day or night before the appointment to prevent thermal injury and allow the laser to reach the hair follicle.

During the procedure, protective eye wear is necessary to prevent retina damage. A jet of chilled air is used with the laser to minimize epidermal damage and increase patient comfort. A local anesthetic is optional.

After the treatment, the area may show erythema (redness and swelling) around the follicles, similar to large goose bumps. Around 2 or 3 weeks after treatment, 10 to 20% of the treated hairs will fall out. During the healing phase, the area must be treated delicately, not rubbing or scratching. Apply a thin layer of aloe vera ointment to keep the area moist and pat dry.

Apply ice when swelling occurs and wrap it in a clean, soft cloth. Discomfort or stinging can be relieved with Paracetamol, but Ibuprofen or aspirin should not be taken due to potential reactions to the laser light. If applying makeup, apply and remove it delicately to avoid scarring.

Waxing once replaced shaving and tweezing, but laser hair removal offers permanent hair reduction with quick, pain-free treatments that require no downtime. To avoid complications, follow post-treatment skincare instructions and consult a clinic if there are signs of infection.

Know These Before Getting Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a quick and effective treatment that requires patience and regular appointments. It takes two to three weeks for the first treatment, and 8-12 weeks for full results. To ensure optimal results, it is recommended to shave 24 to 48 hours before your appointment to allow the laser to penetrate the skin and target the hair follicles beneath. Waxing removes the hair follicle, making the laser uneffective for permanent hair removal.

Treatments are quick, taking only 25-30 minutes for both legs and 5-7 minutes for underarms. It is also important to avoid the sun, as it can increase skin sensitivity and cause burns and hyperpigmentation during the laser treatment. Exposure to the sun both before and after the treatment increases skin sensitivity and susceptibility to UV rays.

If you forget to shave before laser hair removal, the hair will absorb the energy meant to penetrate under the skin, burning it, leaving marks and scarring, and wasting away on the surface level of the skin. Dry-shaven hair during the day may also make the skin more sensitive and irritated, making it more susceptible to adverse reactions. If you are alone and treating areas like the back that are hard to manage, discuss this with your practitioner, who may offer complimentary shaving the day before the actual treatment.

In summary, laser hair removal is a quick and effective treatment that requires patience, proper preparation, and proper shaven hair.