What to expect after your treatment

It is normal for the treated area to feel slightly sensitive, warm or similar to mild sunburn for a few minutes to a day after your treatment. You may also notice temporary redness or small red bumps around the hair follicles (perifollicular oedema). This is a normal response and usually settles within a short period.

Following the aftercare advice below will help support your skin, reduce irritation and optimise your treatment results.

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Immediately after your treatment

• Avoid hot water on the treated area for 24–48 hours.

• Avoid deodorant or fragranced products on treated areas for 48 hours.

• Avoid exercise until any redness or follicular swelling has settled.

• Avoid Jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms until the skin has returned to its normal condition.

• Avoid products containing active ingredients such as glycolic acid, retinoids or Retin-A on the treated area for 5–7 days.

• Avoid tanning and unnecessary sun exposure for 2–6 weeks and always use appropriate SPF on exposed treated areas.

• If the area feels uncomfortable, you can apply Aloe Vera or use a cool compress/ice pack wrapped in a thin towel until any redness, swelling or discomfort has settled.

 

Hair removal between treatments

You may shave between treatments.

However, please avoid waxing, tweezing, threading or using depilatory creams on the treated area. Laser hair removal works by targeting the hair follicle, so the hair needs to remain in the follicle for your next treatment.

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If crusting occurs

Occasionally, small areas of crusting may develop following treatment. If this happens:

• Do not pick, scratch or remove the crusts.

• Wash the area gently with your fingertips and a mild, non-irritating cleanser.

• Keep the area moisturised with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser.

• If needed, a suitable soothing product such as Aloe Vera may be used.

• Allow the area to heal naturally. Crusting will generally resolve within around a week.

If you experience anything unusual or have concerns about how your skin is healing, please contact Studio26 for advice.

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Your treatment schedule

Laser hair removal requires a course of treatments for optimal results. The number of treatments needed varies from person to person and depends on factors including:

• Hair colour and thickness

• Skin type

• The treatment area

• Hormonal factors

• Previous hair removal methods

Treatment intervals can range from approximately 3–12 weeks, depending on the area being treated and your stage within the treatment course.

Results may become more noticeable after your second or third treatment, although individual results will vary.

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Shedding after treatment

You may notice treated hairs appearing to grow or resurface a few days to several weeks after treatment. This does not necessarily mean the treatment has not worked — these hairs may be shedding from the follicle.

Once your skin has returned to its normal condition, gentle exfoliation can help remove shedding hairs. You can begin gentle exfoliation a few days to a week after treatment, provided there is no redness, irritation or sensitivity.

A gentle exfoliating mitt, loofah or washcloth can be used without applying excessive pressure.

 

Most importantly

Be gentle with your skin after laser treatment. Avoid heat, friction, tanning and irritating products while the skin is settling, and follow the recommended treatment schedule for the best possible results.

If you are unsure about anything following your treatment, please contact Studio26 Cheltenham before applying any new product or carrying out further hair removal.