How do I prepare for laser hair removal?
Before undergoing laser hair removal, your surgeon will provide you with pretreatment instructions and answer any questions that you may have.
In advance of your procedure, your surgeon will ask you to:
- Wear sunscreen and avoid the sun.
- Use a bleaching cream if you have darker skin.
- Avoid pretreatment plucking, waxing, or electrolysis.
- Stop smoking before undergoing surgery to promote better healing.
- Avoid taking aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal medications that can cause increased bleeding.
- Hydrate before and after surgery for safe recovery.
Laser hair removal is an outpatient procedure. You should be able to drive yourself home following your treatment.
What can I expect the day of my laser hair removal?
Be sure to consult with your surgeon before your treatment so you have the most accurate expectations.
- Your surgeon may apply a topical anesthetic gel before your treatment, and skin cooling during your procedure to help keep you comfortable.
- Most laser hair removal procedures take fifteen to thirty minutes but may take longer depending on the area being treated.
- In most cases, you will experience minimal pain and may feel a slight stinging sensation during the procedure.
- After your procedure is completed, you will be able to return home and resume your normal activities.