Good preparation for laser hair removal takes a few minutes, but it largely decides how comfortable the session is and how well it works. In short: don't tan for a couple of weeks, shave the area the day before or that morning (don't wax or pluck), and arrive with clean skin - no creams or deodorant. Here is each point in detail, from our 7+ years of experience.
When to start
Preparation is not a one-day thing. The sun affects your skin for about two weeks before a session, while shaving is done a few hours before or the night before. If you have a sunny holiday planned, leave a buffer: it's better to come back to laser about two weeks after an active tan.
Stop using self-tanner a few days before your visit. It changes your skin colour, and the specialist won't be able to set the power safely and accurately.
Why you shave, not pluck
The laser targets the hair root - the pigment inside the follicle. If you pull the hair out with wax, tweezers or an epilator, the root isn't there and the beam has nothing to act on. So for 3-4 weeks before a session, don't wax, sugar or pluck.
Shaving, on the other hand, is exactly right. It removes only the visible part and leaves the root in place. Shave the area a few hours before your visit or the evening before - then the laser works on the skin, not on long hairs, with no extra heat.
Tanning, sunbeds and SPF
A fresh tan is the main reason sessions get postponed. Tanned skin has more pigment, so to avoid a burn we have to lower the power - and the effect drops with it. For about two weeks before and after a session, avoid strong sun and sunbeds, and use SPF on exposed areas.
This doesn't mean laser is off-limits in summer. Just plan sessions between tanning periods and protect the treated area from the sun. Bikini and underarms are especially popular in summer - the sun barely reaches these areas, so they are safe to treat even in the warm months.
On the day
Come with clean, dry skin. On the day of the session, don't put creams, oils, lotions, deodorant or powder on the area - they form a film and get in the way of the pulse. A shower before your visit is ideal.
For facial areas, come without make-up. It's best to remove jewellery around the treated area.
Wear loose clothing. After the session the skin can be slightly irritated, and tight clothes can rub and feel uncomfortable - a loose fit avoids that.
When to postpone
Reschedule if the skin is irritated, has fresh cuts, an active cold sore or a strong sunburn. Always tell the specialist if you take medication that increases light sensitivity (some antibiotics, retinoids), and about pregnancy or chronic skin conditions - these are handled individually at the consultation.
What to expect at your first visit
Your first visit starts with a free consultation: we look at your skin and hair type, ask about your health and any contraindications, and do a test flash on a small area to set a comfortable, safe power. We work with a hybrid laser (diode + alexandrite) and contact cooling, so even delicate areas feel calm.
Reviewed by: MEDULLA team