
8415 Pineville-Matthews Rd
Charlotte, NC 28226
Painless Laser Hair Removal
Pre and Post-Care
Laser Hair Removal Pre-Care
Proper pre-care ensures safe, effective, and long-lasting results from your Laser Hair Removal treatment. Follow these steps to prepare your skin and maximize the benefits.
2-4 Weeks Before Treatment
Avoid Sun Exposure & Tanning – Laser works best on untanned skin. Use SPF 30+ daily on treated areas.
No Waxing, Plucking, or Threading – These remove hair from the root, making the laser less effective. Shaving is allowed.
Stop Using Self-Tanners & Tanning Beds – Sunless tanning products can increase skin sensitivity and risk of burns.
Avoid:
Spray Tans & Bronzing Lotions – Can interfere with laser energy absorption.
Bleaching Hair in the Treatment Area – The laser needs pigment in the hair follicle to target it effectively.
3-7 Days Before Treatment
Gently Exfoliate the Skin – Helps remove dead skin cells for better laser penetration.
Hydrate & Moisturize – Keep the skin well-hydrated for optimal laser effectiveness.
Avoid:
Harsh Exfoliants or Chemical Peels – No retinol, glycolic acid, or strong exfoliating treatments for at least 1 week.
24 Hours Before Treatment
Shave the Treatment Area – Shave as close to the skin as possible without causing irritation. The laser targets the hair follicle, not the hair above the skin.
Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing – Prevents friction or irritation post-treatment.
Stay Hydrated – Well-hydrated skin responds better to laser treatments.
Avoid:
Applying Lotions, Oils, or Deodorants – Skin should be clean and product-free before the appointment.
Taking Blood-Thinning Medications or Alcohol – If possible, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or alcohol to reduce bruising and irritation.
Day of Treatment
Arrive with Clean, Dry Skin – No makeup, lotions, deodorants, or perfumes on the treatment area.
Discuss Any Skin Concerns with Your Provider – Inform us of any new medications, skin conditions, or recent sun exposure.
Relax & Stay Comfortable – The procedure is quick and well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.
Avoid:
Caffeine Right Before Your Appointment – Can make skin more sensitive.
Overexposure to the Sun – UV exposure can increase the risk of irritation post-treatment.
Key Takeaways:
Shave Before Treatment – No waxing, plucking, or threading for at least 4 weeks before.
Avoid Sun & Tanning Beds – Protect your skin with SPF 30+ daily.
Keep Skin Hydrated & Exfoliated – Helps ensure optimal laser penetration.
Arrive with Clean, Product-Free Skin – No lotions, deodorants, or oils on the treatment area.
Laser Hair Removal Post-Care
First 24 Hours Post-Treatment
Mild Redness & Sensitivity is Normal – Skin may feel warm, slightly swollen, or sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn.
Apply a Cold Compress (If Needed) – Use a cool (not frozen) compress for 5-10 minutes every hour to reduce discomfort.
Moisturize with a Gentle Lotion – Apply aloe vera or fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe the skin.
Wear Loose Clothing – Avoid friction on treated areas.
Avoid:
Hot Showers, Steam, or Saunas – Stick to lukewarm water to prevent irritation.
Sun Exposure & Tanning Beds – Laser-treated skin is extra sensitive to UV rays.
Makeup, Deodorant, or Harsh Products – Avoid applying anything to the treated area for at least 12-24 hours.
Intense Exercise & Sweating – No gym, hot yoga, or activities that cause excessive sweating.
Days 2-7: Healing Phase
Mild Itching, Bumps, or Shedding is Normal – Treated hairs will gradually fall out over 1-3 weeks.
Keep the Skin Hydrated – Continue using a fragrance-free moisturizer.
Exfoliate Gently After 5 Days – Use a soft washcloth or mild scrub to help loosen shedding hair.
Continue Avoiding Sun Exposure – Wear SPF 30+ daily on treated areas.
Avoid:
Plucking, Waxing, or Threading – Let hair shed naturally to avoid interfering with the laser process.
Harsh Skincare Products – No retinol, glycolic acids, or chemical exfoliants for at least a week.
Weeks 2-4: Hair Shedding & New Growth Phase
Shedding Continues – Some treated hair will fall out naturally, while new hair growth may appear finer and lighter.
Maintain Sun Protection – Laser-treated skin remains sensitive to UV exposure for several weeks.
Schedule Follow-Up Sessions – Laser Hair Removal is most effective in a series of 6-8 treatments spaced 4- 6 weeks apart.
Avoid:
Skipping Treatments – Hair grows in cycles, and missing sessions can reduce long-term effectiveness.
When to Contact Us
If you experience:
Excessive redness, swelling, or prolonged discomfort beyond 5 days
Burning, blistering, or scabbing
Signs of infection (pus, extreme tenderness, or unusual discharge)
For any concerns, contact Bright Diamond Medical Spa and Wellness immediately.
Key Takeaways:
Hydrate & Protect the Skin – Use moisturizer and SPF 30+ daily.
Do Not Pick, Wax, or Pluck Hairs – Let shedding happen naturally.
Be Patient – Hair Reduction is Gradual – Full results take multiple sessions over several months.
Follow Your Treatment Plan – Maintain consistency with 6-8 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal, long-lasting hair reduction.
Ready for silky, hair-free skin? Book your next Laser Hair Removal session at Bright Diamond Medical Spa and Wellness today!