Shaving before laser hair removal is an important step because it greatly enhances the treatment's effectiveness and reduces the risk of side effects. Keep reading to learn more about shaving before laser hair removal treatments and get the best possible outcome from your sessions.
Shaving Before A Laser Hair Removal Treatment
It's highly recommended that you shave approximately 24 hours before your laser hair removal appointment. Several benefits come with shaving before your permanent hair removal treatment, including:
A better target for the laser treatment
The laser used in hair removal treatments is attracted to the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. When hair is shaved, the laser beam can reach the base of the follicle more easily and accurately, providing better results and a more permanent hair removal treatment.
Reduced risk of burns
If hair is too long, it can scatter the laser energy, which may cause burns on the surrounding skin. Shaving the treatment area minimizes the amount of hair present, reducing the risk of scattered laser energy and marginalizing the risk of burns. With shaved legs, the worst most patients can expect is the feeling of a mild sunburn.
Improved comfort
During laser hair removal, the laser energy heats up the hair follicle, causing the hair to be removed from the root. If hair is too long, it can cause discomfort during the treatment as it is pulled from the root. Shaving the area minimizes the amount of hair present and makes the treatment more comfortable and efficient for the patient.
More accurate assessment
Shaving allows the practitioner to accurately assess the density and thickness of the hair, which is important in determining the appropriate laser settings for the treatment. This can help achieve better results by ensuring that the laser energy is correctly targeted and of the appropriate intensity.
What Happens If You Don't Shave?
If you don't shave before a laser hair removal treatment, the laser may not be able to effectively target the hair follicles as the hair may get in the way. Unshaved hair follicles may also cause excess heat in the treatment area or damage to the surrounding skin. This can lead to reduced efficacy of the treatment and potential discomfort, which is why our professionals recommend shaving the day prior.
It's important to follow the instructions the practitioner provides to minimize the risk of side effects and achieve optimal results from your laser hair removal session. This may include shaving the area to be treated just before the treatment, avoiding sun exposure before and after the treatment, and avoiding other hair removal methods (such as waxing or plucking), that can interfere with the results of laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal works much better with patient cooperation, so schedule your consultation today and receive detailed preparation instructions from Blissfusion's knowledgeable providers.
Related Articles:
