Discover how to achieve the best possible results from your laser hair removal treatment while keeping your skin healthy and well cared for. Below, our clinical trainers at Cosmeditech share some advice on what to do — and what to avoid — before, during, and after your treatment. In this guide, we outline everything you need to know to prepare for and recover from your treatment.
Before Laser Hair Removal
Do… apply SPF when your skin is exposed to sunlight
Using sunscreen is important year-round, but it’s especially essential before laser hair removal. SPF helps protect your skin from damage or irritation prior to treatment. We advise applying SPF 30 or higher at least twice daily whenever your skin is exposed to direct sunlight.
Don’t… expose the treatment area to sun or sunbeds
Sun exposure or tanning beds in the weeks leading up to your appointment can significantly increase the risk of burns, pigmentation changes, or skin damage. Avoid tanning and sunbeds for up to six weeks before your laser hair removal session.
Do… shave the treatment area the day or evening before
Shaving the area the night before or on the day of treatment is recommended. This prevents surface hair from absorbing the laser energy, reducing the risk of heat damage to the skin. Shaving also allows the laser to focus directly on the hair follicle, ensuring more effective results.
Don’t… pluck, wax, or bleach hair for six weeks beforehand
Refrain from waxing, plucking, or bleaching the hair in the treatment area for at least six weeks prior to your appointment. Laser hair removal targets pigment within the hair follicle, so both the root and colour must be intact for the treatment to work effectively.
During Laser Hair Removal
Do… wear protective eyewear throughout
Everyone in the treatment room must wear protective eyewear to shield their eyes from the high-intensity laser. Your practitioner will supply this before treatment begins. While the risk is minimal, eye protection is an essential safety precaution.
Don’t… move or fidget during treatment
Try to remain still during your session. Sudden movements may lead to unintended skin contact or uneven results. If you need to adjust your position, simply let your practitioner know so the treatment can be paused safely.
Do… keep the area cool during treatment
Most clinics use a stream of cool air during treatment to improve comfort and protect the skin’s surface. This cooling method helps minimise heat sensation and reduces the risk of epidermal irritation.
Don’t… hesitate to ask questions or speak up
If something feels uncomfortable, painful, or unclear, let your practitioner know immediately. Your comfort and confidence are a priority, and your concerns will always be addressed with care and professionalism.
Do… request a local anaesthetic if needed
Pain tolerance varies from person to person. If you are sensitive to discomfort, you may request a local anaesthetic before treatment begins.
After Laser Hair Removal
Do… use ice or cool compresses to ease discomfort
Mild redness, tenderness, or swelling is common after treatment. Applying a cold compress or ice pack can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. You may repeat this as often as needed.
Don’t… pluck or wax hairs in the treated area
Avoid removing hair by plucking or waxing after treatment, as this can stimulate the follicle and interfere with results. It’s best to leave the area undisturbed for up to one month.
Do… use over-the-counter pain relief if required
If you experience discomfort, paracetamol or a soothing topical cream may help. Our specialists can recommend suitable products if needed.
Don’t… use hot baths, showers, or steam rooms for 48 hours
For the first 48 hours after treatment, avoid excessive heat, including steam rooms and very hot baths or showers. If showering is necessary, keep the water lukewarm or cool to protect the treated skin.
Do… shield your skin from sun exposure for up to a month
While you don’t need to avoid the sun entirely, limiting exposure for 2–4 weeks after treatment is important. If you are outdoors, apply SPF 30 or higher to prevent burning and pigmentation changes.
Don’t… apply lotions, perfumes, or fragrances to the area
Avoid applying products such as scented lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or fragranced skincare for up to one month. The treated follicles are vulnerable, and these products may cause irritation or increase the risk of infection.
Do… gently exfoliate once redness has settled
After around two weeks, when redness has fully subsided, you may begin gentle exfoliation. If you’re unsure whether your skin is ready, consult your practitioner for advice.
Don’t… engage in intense exercise for 48 hours
Avoid strenuous exercise for up to 48 hours after treatment, as sweat and friction can irritate sensitive follicles. If possible, exercise before your appointment and allow your body time to recover afterward.
Clinical Training with Cosmeditech
For our range of aesthetics and laser devices we provide CPD Certified training to all of our clients at Cosmeditech. For Eneka PRO Laser Hair Removal, this includes Core of Knowledge / Laser & Light Devices training for all practitioners. We also provide articles and content just like this blog post for practitioners to share with their customers, to promote safe laser treatments at all times.