What to know before laser hair removal

What a laser session usually looks like

Each session follows a familiar pattern. The area is shaved beforehand, often at home. You and the provider wear eye protection. The provider may apply a cooling gel or use a device with built-in cooling. They then move the handpiece across the area in a pattern, sending short pulses of light.

People often describe the sensation as a snap against the skin, and providers can talk about comfort options. Aftercare usually involves sun protection and avoiding heat on the area for a short while. The full plan is a series of these sessions, with the number varying from person to person.

Matching the device to your skin and hair

Device choice is one of the biggest decisions in laser hair removal. Lasers work at different wavelengths, and each suits some combinations of skin tone and hair color more than others. Using the wrong one for deeper skin tones can raise the risk of burns or changes in skin color.

Ask the provider which device they use and why it suits you. Ask whether they have more than one type, and how they choose settings. Some providers do a test patch first. If you have very light hair, ask plainly whether laser is an option at all, since many devices have trouble with it. A licensed provider decides what is suitable.

What to ask the office before you go

Some offices give instructions ahead of a laser consultation, especially if a test patch might happen. It is worth calling or emailing to ask:

• Should I shave the area beforehand, and when?
• Should I avoid waxing, plucking or hair removal cream?
• Should I avoid sun or self-tanner first?
• Do I need to skip lotion or deodorant on the day?
• Will there be a test patch?

Follow the office's own instructions over anything general. Do not stop any prescribed medicine without checking with whoever prescribed it.

Questions about laser hair removal

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