Laser Pre and Post Treatment Care

Laser Pre and Post Treatment Care

Prior to your Treatment:

  • Do not pluck, wax, thread, tweeze or undergo electrolysis in the areas you would like to have treated for 4 weeks prior to having laser done.
  • The area that is being treated must be shaved prior to treatment.
  • For better results, patients are to avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and self-tanning creams. Do not tan the areas to be treated for 2-4 weeks prior to treatment and throughout the course of your treatment. A broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sun block with an SPF of 30 or greater should be applied to the area(s) to be treated whenever exposed to the sun. However, if sun exposure is not avoidable, a reduced energy fluence may be used for your treatment, and in this case sessions need to be increased. Very recent sun exposure may result in the cancellation of your appointment.
  • Optional Topical anesthetics such as Zensa can purchased at Bare Essentials. Zensa is a topical anaesthetic formulated with maximum strength 5% lidocaine. The numbing cream works in just 20 minutes and lasts 2-3 hours. Zensa is pH neutral meaning it can be used on the most sensitive of skin including the bikini area. It also contains natural ingredients like calendula, shea butter and green tea extract to ease irritated skin post-procedure
  • Wear loose fitting, comfortable and washable clothing.
  • For pain relief, you may take regular strength Tylenol if prescribed by your physician and it does not interfere with other medication you may be taking.

After Treatment:

  • Some redness, swelling and a mild sunburn like sensation may be noticed in the area for up to 2 hours afterwards. Clients should not feel significant discomfort after the treatment.
  • Apply a Vitamin E or Aloe gel to the area twice daily for 5-7 days or until the sunburned feeling subsides. Gently clean the area twice daily.
  • You may apply a cold compress to the area to reduce redness and swelling, however do not use chemical cold packs. This is highly recommended for darker skin types.
  • Apply sunscreen for 6 weeks to treated area and throughout the course of your treatment. A broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunblock with a minimum of 30 SPF can be applied 15 minutes before casual sunbathing with prolonged exposures requiring reapplications every 2 hours and immediately after swimming.
  • Avoid perfumes, strong soaps, makeup and deodorant until the stinging and redness has subsided. Avoid hot baths, hot tubs and working out for 24 hours after your treatment. Avoid any facial irritants such as glycolic, retinoid creams, chemical peels, microdermabrasion etc. for 7 days after treatment.
  • Do not pluck or wax after your treatment. Hair should appear to grow after the treatment as the hair is being extruded. It should spontaneously fall out approximately 4-14 days later. Shaving between appointments is allowed, however please wait 3 days after your appointment to do so.
  • Blistering can occur during the first 3 days following the treatment. The area should be kept clean and treated with care. If a blister or open wound occurs, use a topical antibiotic ointment, like polysporin, to keep it moist until it has healed. For facial blisters, use extreme caution when applying or removing makeup. Roughness on the area can increase the incidence of post treatment complications
  • When bathing, do not rub the affected area with a face cloth or towel. The area should be pat dry.
  • Pustules or pimples may develop in the first few days following treatment. These areas should be kept clean and treated with care. Avoid access sweating.
  • Histamine/Hives: some patients develop raised papules similar to hives. This irritation usually subsides in a few hours.
  • With bikini areas, panty elastic at the leg should be avoided for several days after treatment. The irritation of the elastic can lead to rash/blistering.
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Need more information?

Check out our frequently asked questions and our aftercare page for more information!