Preparing for laser hair removal is not rocket science. Congrats! You’ve booked your first-ever laser hair removal session? Now it’s time to get the most out of your time and money. Just a few considerations and all will fall into place.
Equally important is to know when to schedule your next session – you have to visit your therapist at the right time. Not too early, not too late.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare for your first laser hair removal treatment and how to determine the perfect time for your next session.
Preparing for laser hair removal sessions easily
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in hair follicles to stop them from growing back. However, for the treatment to be safe and effective, you need to follow a few preparation steps.
1. Stop waxing, plucking, and threading 4-6 weeks before
Laser hair removal works by emitting light energy that targets the melanin in the hair follicle. If you remove the hair from the root (by waxing, plucking, or threading), the laser won’t be effective because there won’t be anything to target. Waxing and plucking not only make the laser ineffective but can also stimulate the hair follicle, potentially leading to stronger regrowth.
Instead, switch to shaving in the weeks leading up to your session.
2. Shave 24 hours before the appointment
We’d go a step further and even suggest shaving 12 hours before the appointment. Shaving ensures the laser focuses on the follicle rather than burning the hair on the surface. Burning the hair on the surface can cause discomfort, redness and swelling.
Also, try not to shave right before the treatment to give the skin some time to recover from the blades. Shaving immediately before can leave the skin sensitive and increase the risk of irritation.
Make sure to:
- Use a sharp razor to avoid irritation.
- Avoid using any perfumed shaving creams that can cause sensitivity.
3. Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 2-4 weeks
Tanned skin increases the risk of burns, pigmentation changes, and less effective results. It also reduces the contrast between the melanin in the hair follicles and the surrounding skin which makes it even harder for the laser to target the hair effectively. By avoiding sun exposure, the laser can more accurately target the hair follicles for better results.
If you must be in the sun, apply SPF 50+ sunscreen on the treatment area daily.
4. Stop using retinoids, acids, and harsh skincare 5-7 days before
If you use products with retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or other exfoliating agents, pause them a few days before your session to avoid excessive skin sensitivity. Retinoids and exfoliating acids like AHAs and BHAs increase skin sensitivity by speeding up cell turnover and thinning the skin’s outer layer.
These ingredients can cause the skin to react more strongly to the heat generated by the laser, increasing the risk of burns, hyperpigmentation, or scarring. Avoiding such products helps minimize potential complications during the healing process after laser hair removal.
5. Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Tight clothing can irritate freshly treated skin, especially after laser on areas like the bikini line or legs. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics. Loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or silk help prevent overheating and sweating, which can lead to irritation or infection. These materials allow the skin to breathe and recover more comfortably
6. Inform your practitioner about any medications
Certain medications, like antibiotics or acne treatments, can increase skin sensitivity. Always consult with your specialist before the session.
Medications to Avoid:
- Photosensitizing medications: Antibiotics (fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines), antifungals, isotretinoin (Accutane), and retinoids increase skin sensitivity, risking burns or pigmentation changes.
- Antidepressants: May alter skin sensitivity; a patch test may be needed.
- Hormonal treatments: Can impact hair growth and reduce treatment effectiveness.
- Vitamins and supplements: High doses of Vitamin A, garlic, and ginkgo biloba may increase skin sensitivity or bleeding risk.
Conditions to Avoid:
- White or gray hair: If your hair is very light or even white, better avoid as laser won’t be helpful.
- Active skin conditions: Acne, psoriasis, or eczema should be controlled before treatment.
- Recent sun exposure or tanning: Increases risk of burns and pigmentation issues.
- Skin Lesions and Infections: Avoid treating areas with active infections, warts, or lesions.
- Pregnancy: Not recommended due to limited safety data.
- Keloid scarring: Higher risk of excessive scarring post-treatment.
- Bleeding disorders: Conditions like hemophilia can lead to complications.
- Autoimmune Diseases (like lupus): Laser may trigger flare-ups.
- Epilepsy: Some lasers with flashing lights can trigger seizures.
How to know when it’s time for your next session
Part of preparing for laser hair removal is knowing what’s the right time to visit the clinic. Hair grows in cycles, and the laser is most effective during the active growth phase (anagen phase). Since not all hairs are in this phase at the same time, multiple sessions are needed for complete hair reduction.
Since hair is always cycling through these phases at different times, not all hairs are in the anagen phase at once.
Signs you’re in the anagen phase
- Hair is clearly visible above the skin and feels firmly rooted.
- When shaving, hair grows back evenly.
- Hair is thick and dark, meaning it contains enough pigment for the laser to work.
Signs you’re in the wrong phase:
- If hair falls out easily (you might be in the catagen/telogen phase).
- If there’s no visible hair growth for a long time, follicles are dormant.
- If hair is thin, light, or barely growing, the laser won’t be as effective.
The best way to ensure you’re in the right phase is to stick to your recommended laser schedule (4-10 weeks between sessions depending on the body area). This timing secures the new hair to enter the anagen phase for effective treatment.
1. Follow the recommended schedule
On average, laser hair removal requires 6-8 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart for the face and 6-8 weeks apart for the body.
| Area | Session Interval |
|---|---|
| Face | 4-6 weeks |
| Underarms | 6 weeks |
| Bikini | 6-8 weeks |
| Legs | 8-10 weeks |
If you go too early, your hair may not be in the right growth phase. If you wait too long, new follicles may become active, requiring additional treatments.
2. Look for hair shedding (Exogen phase – 2-3 weeks after treatment)
After each session, treated hairs will begin to shed (fall out) in about 2-3 weeks. If this is happening, it means the laser is effectively destroying hair follicles.
3. Check for new hair growth
As hair regrows, it will appear thinner and lighter with each session. Once you start noticing new, darker hairs, it’s a sign you’re entering the next cycle, and it’s time for your next session.
4. Assess skin sensitivity
If your skin is still red, irritated, or sensitive from the last session, wait until it fully heals before scheduling another appointment. This is rare, but some individuals with sensitive skin may need longer recovery times.
Final guidance
Preparing for laser hair removal properly and following the right session schedule can significantly improve your results. The key takeaways:
✅ Shave, but don’t wax or pluck before your session.
✅ Avoid sun exposure and harsh skincare before treatment.
✅ Sessions should be spaced 4-10 weeks apart, depending on the area.
✅ Look for hair shedding and new growth to time your next session.
If you’re ready to start your laser hair removal journey, book a consultation with 7 Derma Center today! Our experts will create a customized plan to help you achieve silky-smooth, hair-free skin safely and effectively.
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