Body

9 Things to Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal

Thinking about permanent hair removal? Read this first.

by Melanie Rud Chadwick | COMMENT

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What Should I Do Before and After the Treatment? The night before your appointment, shave any spots that will be zapped (avoid waxing, since you don't want to pull out the hair entirely, as that's the laser's target). Thanks to new innovations and technologies, the process itself is faster and less painful than ever, so you'll be in and out quickly; a full leg can be done in as little as 15 minutes, says Frank.

Some minor redness afterward is normal, though be sure to stay out of the sun and avoid using any harsh ingredients or products on the lasered area for two weeks afterward, including retinoids, alpha and beta acids or topical acne medications, advises Young.

But remember that laser hair removal isn't a one-and-done situation: "There are three different stages of hair growth, and the laser can only a knock out a hair when it's in the active growth phase," explains Kauvar. "To catch all the hairs in any given area in that phase, you'll need about six sessions." How far apart those are spaced depends on which part of the body you're treating -- hair grows at different rates in different areas -- but as a rule, plan on going in every four to six weeks, says Frank. That's why it's a good idea to book your laser hair removal treatments in the fall or winter so that you'll be ready to bare your newly smooth skin come summer.

Image via Getty

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