Deciding to begin laser hair removal is an exciting step toward smoother, hair free skin. The process is straightforward and highly effective, but proper preparation is key to ensuring your first session is safe, comfortable, and successful. Knowing what to do and what to avoid in the days and weeks leading up to your appointment will maximize your results and minimize potential side effects.
This guide provides a comprehensive timeline for preparing for your first laser hair removal treatment. We will cover everything from adjusting your skincare routine to what you should wear on the day of your appointment. Following these steps will help you arrive at the clinic feeling confident and ready.
Four to Six Weeks Before Your Session
Long term preparation sets the stage for a successful treatment. The most important actions at this stage involve your hair removal methods and sun protection.
Stop Plucking, Waxing, and Threading
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment within the hair follicle. For the laser to be effective, the hair root must be present in the follicle. Methods like waxing, plucking, tweezing, and threading remove the hair from the root entirely. If there is no hair in the follicle, the laser has nothing to target, and the treatment will be ineffective.
You must stop all forms of hair removal that pull hair from the root at least four weeks, and ideally six weeks, before your appointment. Shaving is the only acceptable method of hair removal during this period, as it leaves the root intact beneath the skin’s surface.
Begin a Consistent Sun Protection Routine
Sun exposure is the number one enemy of safe laser hair removal. When your skin is tanned, it has more melanin. The laser cannot easily distinguish between the melanin in your hair and the melanin in your tanned skin. This confusion can lead to serious side effects, including burns, blisters, and permanent skin discoloration.
Start being diligent about sun protection on the area you plan to have treated. This means:
- Applying a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
- Reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.
- Covering the treatment area with protective clothing whenever possible.
Avoiding a tan is not just a suggestion; it is a critical safety requirement.
One Week Before Your Session
As your appointment gets closer, you will need to make some adjustments to your skincare routine and medication usage.
Pause Certain Skincare Ingredients
Many popular skincare ingredients increase cell turnover and skin sensitivity, which can make your skin more vulnerable to irritation from the laser. One week before your session, you should stop using products on the treatment area that contain:
- Retinoids, including retinol, tretinoin, and adapalene.
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acid and lactic acid.
- Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), like salicylic acid.
- Harsh physical exfoliants or scrubs.
Switch to a simple, gentle skincare routine that focuses on cleansing and moisturizing. This will ensure your skin barrier is healthy and calm on treatment day.
Disclose All Medications
During your consultation, you should provide a full list of your medications, vitamins, and supplements. Some medications, including certain antibiotics and even herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort, can cause photosensitivity. This condition makes your skin highly reactive to light. If you start any new medication after your consultation, be sure to inform the clinic before your session. Your provider needs this information to assess your safety and may need to reschedule your appointment.
Avoid Self Tanner
Just like a natural tan, self tanners and spray tans darken the skin by adding pigment to the top layers. This presents the same safety risks as a sun tan. You must stop using all self tanning products on the treatment area at least one to two weeks before your appointment. Ensure that all residual tanner is fully exfoliated and gone from your skin before you arrive.
24 to 48 Hours Before Your Session
The final day or two before your treatment involves some very specific and important steps.
Shave the Treatment Area
You should shave the area that will be treated approximately 24 hours before your appointment. Shaving cuts the hair at the surface while leaving the follicle intact for the laser to target. This timing is ideal because it prevents any surface hair from absorbing the laser’s energy, which could singe the hair and cause discomfort. It also ensures there is no visible stubble, which can interfere with the laser’s path to the follicle.
Use a clean, sharp razor and a gentle shaving cream to avoid razor burn or irritation. Do not shave on the morning of your appointment, as this can leave your skin slightly more sensitive.
Hydrate and Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
Well hydrated skin responds better to laser treatment and recovers more quickly. Focus on drinking plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up to your session. At the same time, it is a good idea to avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine. Both can dehydrate the body and may make your skin feel more sensitive during the procedure.
On the Day of Your Appointment
You are almost there. A few final preparations on the day of treatment will ensure everything goes smoothly.
Arrive with Clean Skin
Your skin in the treatment area should be completely clean and free of any products. Do not apply any lotions, creams, oils, deodorant, or makeup to the area before you arrive. Product residue on the skin can block the laser or cause an adverse reaction. Most clinics will have wipes available if you need to clean the area upon arrival.
Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing
Choose loose fitting and comfortable clothing to wear to your appointment. After the session, your skin may feel warm and sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. Tight clothing can rub against the treated skin and cause irritation. Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton are an excellent choice.
Discuss Pain Management Options
Pain tolerance varies from person to person. Many people describe the sensation of the laser as a quick snap of a rubber band. If you are concerned about discomfort, you can discuss options with your provider. Some clinics offer topical numbing creams. If you plan to use one, you typically need to apply it 30 to 60 minutes before your session begins. Always follow the clinic’s specific instructions for use. Modern laser devices also have built in cooling systems that blast cold air onto the skin to keep you comfortable.
Quick Preparation Checklist
- Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds on the treatment area.
- Stop using retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs one week prior.
- Stop using self tanner one to two weeks prior.
- Shave the treatment area 24 hours before your appointment.
- Arrive with clean, product free skin.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes.
Following these guidelines will help you have a safe and positive experience. Your preparation plays a significant role in the quality of your results. The team at renew you medical wellness is dedicated to guiding you through every step of your journey. When you visit our med spa in broomfield for your consultation, we will create a personalized preparation plan and ensure all your questions are answered, setting you up for the best possible outcome.

