Is It Safe to Use Lotion on My Skin After Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is one of the most popular aesthetic treatments performed across the country today, thanks to its relative convenience, affordability, and long-lasting results. For many men and women, laser hair removal offers the life-changing opportunity to save many hours (and dollars) each week that would normally be spent on at-home hair removal. At Aurora Bella Plastic Surgery in Miami, FL, Dr. Bella A. Pacheco and our expert team of aesthetic technicians enjoy helping patients just like you regain precious time in their day and achieve clearer, smoother skin they can feel confident about with laser hair removal. Read on to learn more about what you can expect after laser hair removal treatment, including which skin care products and routines are safe, which should be avoided – and why.

What to know before laser hair removal treatment

Prior to your laser hair removal treatment, it helps to know what to expect both during and after your appointment, as well as how to prepare your skin for the most comfortable experience and successful outcome possible.

Before laser hair removal, patients should ensure the treatment area has been shaved and cleansed. Skin irritants and products containing retinol/retinoids, acids, etc., should be discontinued for at least a few days leading up to laser hair removal, and patients should also avoid direct sun exposure.

During the treatment itself, the skin should be clean and dry. A topical numbing agent may be applied to minimize the snapping or pinching sensation often associated with laser hair removal, though most patients tolerate treatment without the need for an anesthetic cream.

After laser hair removal, the skin may be red, irritated, and inflamed. Additionally, the skin will be more sensitive than usual to light and certain products. Your provider will apply a soothing cream or aloe to the skin, along with a sun protectant, before you leave our office.

Can I use my regular lotion and skincare products after laser hair removal?

Following your laser hair removal treatment, you can resume the majority of your normal routines – with a few exceptions. Most important, sun exposure should be avoided, as this can further irritate your sensitive and inflamed skin and delay the healing process. In some cases, sun exposure after laser hair removal can lead to hyperpigmentation, discoloration, or even scarring.

While patients are encouraged to keep their skin moisturized and protected from the sun between laser hair removal appointments, there are a few important things to know:

• Use gentle cleansers
• Do not use harsh exfoliants
• Avoid retinol/retinoid and acid products or serums
• Use lotions and sunscreens that are free of dyes and fragrances
• Consider using natural aloe products to soothe the skin
• Do not pluck, wax, sugar, tweeze, or use hair removal creams between appointments

By following these laser hair removal aftercare tips, you can keep your skin calm, get prepared for your next appointment, and set yourself up for the most successful overall treatment possible.

Join the thousands of men and women who are now living a life without razors with laser hair removal in Miami, FL

Imagine not having to worry about shaving or plucking again. With laser hair removal, you may not have to! For many people, laser hair removal has resulted in years, decades, or even a lifetime of enjoying a dramatic reduction in hair growth – and you can be one of them. Take the first step toward silky smooth skin today by calling Aurora Bella Plastic Surgery to schedule your Miami, FL laser hair removal consultation with Dr. Bella A. Pacheco.