Permanent Laser Hair Removal – Aftercare Tips

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Care After Laser Hair Removal Surgery

Undoubtedly, laser hair removal surgery is a very effective and efficient process to give you permanent relief from unwanted hair. But it is after all a medical procedure involving removal of something from your body. Like every such medical procedure, certain care (though mostly minimal in this case) is required to ensure proper healing and to ensure the best results.

Generally, the following care should be taken post laser hair removal.

  • There are no mandatory medications or bandages, but follow the doctor’s instructions closely in this regard.
  • Use cold compresses to soothe the skin surface.
  • No rubbing, scrubbing, picking or scratching of the treated skin.
  • Use a mild cleanser to the treated area when cleaning it in place of strong soaps (cause dryness) and perfumed soaps (cause irritation).
  • Apply a hydrating and anti-redness cream after the procedure. To reduce redness and swelling emollients, topical corticosteroid creams, 1% hydrocortisone or Aloe Vera can be used. They will also keep the treated areas moist. Your laser clinic should advise on correct use.
  • Make it a point to avoid exposure to the sun for several weeks after the treatment. The exposure might affect the results.
  • If exposure to the sun is unavoidable, don’t forget to apply an effective sun screen of SPF 25 or more for a couple of weeks on all treated areas.
  • It is advisable to avoid shaving the treated area as it can slow down the recovery of the skin. Shaving should be resumed only after consulting the physician.
  • Bleaching, plucking, waxing or tweezing hair is not permitted at all as they can lead to skin irritation and slow down the healing process.
  • You can use a loofah or washcloth to encourage hair shedding.
  • Although permanent laser hair removal surgery is a safe process, if you experience severe blisters and crusting of the skin you must contact the laser clinic as soon as possible.
  • Antibiotic ointment can be used to treat normal blisters and crusting. The clinic should advise.
  • Exercises and exertion for the first 24 hours should be avoided as perspiration can cause skin irritation. Therefore, avoid exercises for a while.
  • The other necessary care that you should take is to avoid applying deodorant on the treated area for up to 48 hours. Also stay away from sauna or steam baths until your skin is normal.
  • Visit your doctor in a week or so after the treatment to check out how your skin and hair has reacted to the treatment. Take all these necessary care steps to get the best results.

You need to go back to the doctor to have him/her take a look at the treated areas to check out the progress post treatment. Ask any further questions you may have about recovery and care. Then decide, in consultation with the doctor on how and when further treatments will be conducted.