How to Prep Your Skin For Laser Hair Removal

How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal: 9 Dos and Don’ts

Laser hair removal in Dubai is commonly considered a painless and safe procedure, but there are certain activities before the treatment that can increase the risk of side effects. It is essential to discuss with your chosen cosmetic provider beforehand to understand and prevent any potential risks.

Here are some recommendations to follow before undergoing a laser procedure:

1. Ensure Your Skin is Clean: Before visiting your selected salon or medical spa, make sure the area to be treated (e.g., legs, underarms, bikini area) is clean. Impurities such as lotions and dirt on the skin can reduce the effectiveness of the laser. Clean skin allows the laser to directly target the hair follicles.

2. Avoid Waxing or Plucking: Hair removal methods like waxing and plucking remove hair from the root. If you perform these activities before a laser session, the laser will not be able to target the hair pigment as the hair has been removed. 

3. Before laser hair removal, it is recommended to shave the treatment area one or two days in advance, in contrast to waxing and plucking. Shaving doesn't uproot the hair, allowing the laser to effectively target the hair pigment. Additionally, shaving removes hair from the skin's surface, reducing the risk of burns from the laser.

4. Minimize sun exposure: The risk of laser burns is higher when the skin is tanned because traditional lasers rely on a noticeable contrast between the color of the skin and hair to target the hair pigment effectively. If the skin has darkened due to tanning, there is a risk that the laser might unintentionally target the melanin in the skin instead of the hair. Avoid the beach, tanning beds, and self-tanning products for several weeks before the treatment to minimize the risk of burning the skin.

5. Be Cautious with Medications: Certain medications can interfere with laser hair removal by making the skin more sensitive and increasing the likelihood of side effects. These medications include blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, topical products with retinol, acne products, and hormone treatments. Consult your doctor about the potential risks if you are using any of these medications before undergoing laser hair removal.

6. Use Skin Products with Care: Consult your cosmetic provider regarding the safety of using skincare products before laser hair removal. Some ingredients in these products can make the skin more susceptible to pain and increase the risk of side effects like discoloration and redness. 

Your provider may recommend discontinuing certain products such as AHA/BHA exfoliating creams, products with retinol or retinal, products with benzoyl peroxide, and products that dry out the skin for a week or two before the treatment. In the days leading up to your laser hair removal appointment, it is advised to exclusively utilize gentle cleansers and mild moisturizers. 

7. Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Refrain from consuming excessive alcohol within 24 hours before the laser hair removal procedure as it can dehydrate the skin and make the procedure more painful.

8. Steer Clear of Coffee: Avoid consuming coffee for several hours before your laser treatment. Coffee can increase skin sensitivity and potentially enhance discomfort or pain, similar to alcohol.

9. Wait after Botox and Dermal Fillers: Allow at least two weeks to pass after receiving Botox or dermal filler treatments before undergoing laser hair removal. If the injectables haven't settled, the laser treatment may disrupt their effects, leading to swelling and redness.

In conclusion, full-body laser hair removal in Dubai is a popular method for achieving long-lasting or even permanent hair reduction. By following the guidelines provided by your cosmetic provider, you can ensure safe treatment and enjoy smooth, hairless skin.