A GUIDE TO LASER HAIR REMOVAL SKINCARE AFTERCARE

WHAT IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL?

Laser hair removal is a permanent hair reduction method which produces results usually between 6-12 sessions in total, each of which must be spaced between 4-8 weeks apart. The number of sessions and spacing is dependent on your skin tone and hair growth cycle, which varies from person to person.

HOW DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORK?

During a laser hair removal session, a laser machine emits powerful light absorbed by the hair’s melanin (pigment). The energy from the laser is converted to heat within the hair follicle, which creates damage that either delays or inhibits future hair growth as well as causing current hairs to fall out.

Because not all hairs on the body are in their growth cycle at the same time, multiple sessions are needed to successfully target all hair in the procedure area. It’s also important to shave before your appointment for optimal results. The results are long lasting but not always permanent, so maintenance procedures may be required to maintain the result achieved by the initial series of appointments.

WHO BENEFITS FROM LASER HAIR REMOVAL?

Laser hair removal can be beneficial for most people, although the patience required does depend on the darkness or lightness of the hair in comparison to the skin. Technological innovations in recent years also mean that all skin tones can now use the treatment as different types of machines are used depending on skin tone.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER LASER HAIR REMOVAL?

In terms of what happens after hair removal, there is usually little more than a slight sense of discomfort in the days following this procedure. Minor redness or bumps are normal, but any symptoms more major require consultation with a medical professional. Hair shedding is also normal after your appointment, as dead hairs fall out of the damaged follicles.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Understanding normal versus concerning reactions after laser hair removal helps for proper aftercare. The treated area may experience temporary discomfort similar to a mild sunburn, which typically subsides within a few hours to a few days.

NORMAL, EXPECTED REACTIONS

• Redness: Mild redness is common immediately after treatment and usually resolves within 24-72 hours. This resembles a sunburn-like reaction and indicates the laser is working effectively.
• Itching: Mild itching may occur for 2-4 days as the skin heals. This is a normal response and can be addressed with our Phyto Corrective Gel Serum containing cucumber and thyme.
• Red Bumps: Small red bumps or a folliculitis-like reaction may appear, especially in sensitive areas like the bikini line, underarms, or neck. These typically resolve within a few days.
• Hair Shedding: Dead hairs will gradually fall out over 1-3 weeks post-treatment. This is the desired result, not hair regrowth.

SIDE EFFECTS REQUIRING ATTENTION

• Hyperpigmentation: Temporary darkening of the skin may occur, particularly in those with darker skin tones or recent sun exposure. Strict sun protection and gentle skincare are essential.
• Blisters or Crusting: While rare, these may develop if aftercare instructions aren't followed properly. They typically resolve within 3-7 days but require careful monitoring.
• Persistent Redness: If skin redness or swelling lasts more than 3 days, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

WHAT TO DO AFTER LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Knowing what to avoid after laser hair removal is the key to avoiding further discomfort and maximising results. Be sure to wash the area regularly with a mild soap (for the body) or a gentle cleanser (for the face) and follow the below recommendations in the days and weeks after your procedure.

CAN I EXERCISE POST-LASER

Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours after laser hair removal. Physical activity raises body temperature and causes sweating, which can irritate the sensitive treated skin and increase the risk of inflammation and infection. Friction from tight workout clothing can also worsen irritation.

Why exercise should be avoided:

• Elevated body temperature stresses already heated skin
• Sweat can irritate sensitive, treated areas
• Tight athletic wear creates friction against vulnerable skin

Light activities such as walking are generally acceptable, but monitor your skin's response carefully.

SWIMMING AND WATER ACTIVITIES

Swimming should be avoided for 48-72 hours after treatment. This includes pools, hot tubs, lakes, and ocean swimming.

Reasons to avoid swimming:

• Chlorine irritation: Pool chemicals can cause significant irritation to freshly treated skin
• Bacterial risk: Public water sources harbour bacteria that can cause infections in vulnerable skin
• Sun exposure: Swimming often involves sun exposure, which must be strictly avoided
• Heat exposure: Hot tubs and heated pools can aggravate the heat response from laser treatment

SAUNA AND HEAT EXPOSURE

Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, and hot showers for 24-48 hours post-treatment. Excessive heat can aggravate the treated skin and potentially cause adverse reactions.

AVOID MAKEUP

If the procedure area involves the face, skipping your regular makeup routine is essential for at least 24 hours post-procedure. Although the area may look quite normal, the pores will be left open and able to be easily clogged by products applied to the face.

PASS ON THE DEODORANT

If the procedure area involves the underarms, it’s advisable to take a break from deodorant for at least 24 hours after your appointment. While this particular measure can be more inconvenient, giving this sensitive area time to recover is important.

SKINCARE PRODUCTS TO AVOID POST-LASER

Fake tan products: Avoid all self-tanning products, spray tans, and tanning accelerators for at least 2 weeks after treatment. These products can cause uneven pigmentation and skin irritation on the sensitised treatment area.

Heavy moisturisers: Rich, thick moisturisers can be too heavy for post-procedure skin with open pores. Avoid thick moisturisers or creams for 24-48 hours after your appointment.

Harsh ingredients: Steer clear of products containing:

• Retinoids or retinol
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Alpha and beta hydroxy acids
• Strong fragrances

AVOID APPLYING HEAVY MOISTURISER

In terms of what creams to apply after hair removal, the lighter the better. Moisturisers with rich formulas can be too heavy for post-procedure skin with open pores. Avoid thick moisturisers or creams for 24-48 hours after your appointment and opt instead for hydrating gel or mist formulas.

LET YOUR SKIN REST

Number one on the list of what not to do after laser hair removal is excessively touching or otherwise disturbing the skin on and around the area. It can be tempting to run your fingers over your newly smooth skin, however post-procedure skin has increased vulnerability to harmful bacteria. Laser hair removal leaves your pores open, so it’s even more important than usual to avoid picking or scratching as your skin recovers.

The same logic applies to utilising other hair removal methods in the weeks following your laser procedure. The skin should be left alone as it goes through the post-laser process, so waxing, tweezing and most other hair removal methods or products are recommended against. Shaving, however, is still acceptable because it acts only on the skin’s surface.

AVOID CLINICAL SKIN PROCEDURES

The same logic applies to utilising other hair removal methods in the weeks following your laser procedure. The skin needs to be left alone as it goes through the post-laser process, so waxing, tweezing and most other hair removal methods or products are recommended against. Shaving, however, is still acceptable because it acts only on the skin’s surface.

AVOID DIRECT SUNLIGHT

Because laser hair removal essentially creates heat within the skin, it’s recommended to avoid direct sun exposure to the procedure area for at least several days prior and two weeks after your appointment. This is because the skin is already moving through a heat response from the laser, so any additional heat has the potential to place too much stress on the skin.

After approximately 24 hours you can begin using a high protection sunscreen such as our Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50+ to help protect skin that may be extra sensitive to the sun.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.
Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.

EXFOLIATE REGULARLY

Once at least two days have passed, gently exfoliating the hair removal area regularly for at least two weeks can help achieve optimal results from your procedure. The benefits of consistent exfoliation after your laser procedure are twofold. Firstly, exfoliating helps prevent ingrown hairs. Secondly, exfoliating can also help speed up the pace of any hair shedding post-procedure.

IMPLEMENT A GENTLE SKINCARE ROUTINE WITH SKINCEUTICALS PRODUCTS

In terms of what to use 24-48 hours after laser hair removal, we recommend a gentle yet effective routine: Start with our Gentle Cleanser, formulated with allantoin to promote a healthy skin barrier. This cleanser is comforting and hydrating, making it well suited to sensitive and post-procedure skin. Next, tone with our Phyto Corrective Essence Hydrating Mist with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to help visibly reduce redness.

Further hydrate your vulnerable skin without clogging pores by gently smoothing on a few drops of the SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel Serum. This corrective serum is formulated with cucumber and thyme as well as hyaluronic acid to comfort and hydrate. For intense hydration, try a masque designed for post-procedure skin such as our Phyto Corrective Mask.

ACCELERATED RECOVERY WITH ADVANCED GEN 6 SKIN REPAIR CREAM

For enhanced post-laser recovery, consider incorporating our Advanced Gen 6 Skin Repair Cream (Advanced RGN-6) into your aftercare routine. This physician-tested, repair & anti-ageing cream is specifically formulated to complement post-laser recovery and daily skin cell renewal. The formula combines six bioactive ingredients to amplify six visible rejuvenation outcomes of skin repair, helping reduce redness, discolouration, and fine lines while promoting visible rejuvenation.

For personalised skincare advice on whether laser hair removal is the right option for you or you are looking for a personalised skincare routine for post laser after-care, consult a skincare professional in clinical procedures. Our SkinCeuticals skincare professionals are also available to discuss a personalised aftercare plan. Always consult with your Local Clinic for individual at-home advice.