Laser hair removal is a very popular and effective way to get rid of unwanted hair, and it’s usually done by a dermatologist or a certified beautician. During the procedure, powerful beams of light are focused on your hair follicles to destroy the hair and prevent it from growing back.
This treatment is often used on areas like your:
- Face
- Chest
- Underarms
- Back
- Bikini line
- Legs
Because of advancements in long-pulsed lasers, laser hair removal isn’t just for light skin anymore but for dark hair too.
But even with these great advances, laser hair removal is still a procedure that requires careful aftercare. Taking proper care of your skin after the treatment can help reduce the chances of side effects, including redness and bumps.
Let’s look at what you should do after your laser treatment to keep your skin happy and healthy.
Do’s for Laser Hair Removal Aftercare
Your dermatologist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your skin after the procedure, but here are some general tips to help your skin heal and reduce side effects:
- Apply Cool Compresses
After your treatment, it’s normal to feel some swelling and discomfort. Therefore, in order to soothe your skin, place a clean, soft washcloth soaked in cool water on the treated area for several minutes. You can also use an ice pack wrapped in a towel. This helps reduce swelling and pain, making you feel more comfortable. - Use Prescribed Creams as Directed
Your doctor may give you a steroid cream to calm any discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relief like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or anti-inflammatory meds can also help manage any pain. - Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Laser hair removal makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s important to avoid direct sun exposure for at least a month after your treatment. After that, remember to wear sunscreen on the treated area daily to protect your skin from further damage.
Can I Shave After Laser Hair Removal?
Yes, you can shave after laser hair removal, but you’ll need to wait until the redness or discoloration goes down and that is usually after a few hours. It’s also important to completely avoid shaving any areas that are:
- Swollen
- Red or discolored
- Painful
Laser hair removal is actually designed to reduce the need for shaving in the long run. However, don’t expect it to remove all the hair in one single session as it does require touch up sessions. Most people need multiple treatments (usually around six) spread out over several weeks or months for the best results.
When to Worry About Redness and Bumps
Redness and small bumps are super common after laser hair removal, and in most cases, they go away on their own after a day or two. But if you notice any of these more serious signs, it’s time to call your doctor:
- Severe Skin Reactions: Burning, blisters, welts, bruising, or skin that turns black.
- Excessive Swelling: Swelling that goes beyond the treated area or changes the shape of your face.
- Infection: If you see pus, or the redness spreads with fever or flu-like symptoms.
- Contact Dermatitis: A red or purple rash.
- Persistent Pain: If the pain doesn’t get better or keeps getting worse.
- Pigmentation Changes: If you notice light or dark spots that don’t fade.
- Allergic Reactions: Hives, difficulty breathing, or other signs of an allergic reaction.
When to See a Doctor
Even though laser hair removal is generally safe and minimally painful, it’s still important to monitor your skin afterward. Reach out to your doctor if you experience:
- Increased swelling
- Blisters or burns
- Pain that doesn’t improve with treatment
- Any signs of infection or changes in pigmentation
Final Thoughts
Laser hair removal is one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments because it’s both effective and safe. To get the best results, though, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions carefully.
By looking after your skin post-treatment, you can reduce the chances of side effects. But remember, not all risks are avoidable. Consult your doctor about any concerns you have before getting the treatment, and if anything feels off afterward, don’t hesitate to contact them.
FAQs
Yes, laser hair removal is generally safe when done by a professional, but you should follow aftercare instructions to avoid complications.
Redness typically fades within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on your skin type and how well you care for it.
It’s best to avoid makeup for at least 24 hours to let your skin heal and reduce the risk of irritation.
Most people need about 6 sessions to see permanent results, spaced a few weeks apart.
You can usually resume normal activities, but avoid intense sun exposure and hot showers for a few days to protect your skin.