If you’re curious about what your skin will look like after laser hair removal, this detailed guide is here to help. It covers every aspect of the process, from what happens immediately after the procedure to the long-term effects on your skin.
Table of Contents
What To Expect Immediately After the Procedure
Once the laser hair removal session is over, you might feel a sense of relief. However, it’s essential to note that your skin will show some immediate effects.
Redness and swelling are almost guaranteed and are your skin’s natural reaction to the laser’s heat. This redness is generally similar to what you might experience after a mild sunburn. The Mayo Clinic notes that this irritation is short-lived, often disappearing within a few hours. If you feel a tingling or mild burning sensation, don’t panic; this is also common and should go away soon.
To alleviate these symptoms, many professionals recommend applying a cold compress or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to soothe the skin.
You can get this Equate Maximum Strength Hydrocortisone Cream from Walmart.
What Does Skin Look Like After Laser Hair Removal in the Following Days?
In the first few days following your laser hair removal treatment, your skin will continue to react. The redness might remain and could be accompanied by slight swelling or puffiness.
During this period, your skin remains sensitive, and it’s imperative to keep it protected from the sun. Sun exposure can exacerbate irritation and may even lead to skin discoloration. WebMD advises using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 like this Walmart-listed Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion when going outdoors.
You may also notice that the treated hairs begin to fall out during this time; this is normal and a sign that the treatment is taking effect. Keep the area clean and moisturized, but avoid using any abrasive skin products.
What Should My Skin Look Like One Week Later?
About a week post-procedure, your skin should be showing signs of normalcy. The redness, puffiness, and any burning sensations should be nearly or entirely gone. However, this doesn’t mean you should return to your regular skincare routine just yet.
Some people might experience lingering sensitivity. It’s wise to continue avoiding harsh skincare products or any forms of hair removal until your skin has fully recovered, which a healthcare provider can confirm. Also, continue to use sunscreen on the treated area to prevent any adverse effects from sun exposure.
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Long-term Effects on the Skin
After undergoing a complete series of laser hair removal treatments, you’ll notice a significant reduction in hair growth in the targeted areas. Over time, the skin in the treated areas often becomes smoother due to the absence of hair and less frequent shaving or waxing.
However, it’s essential to understand that laser hair removal often requires multiple sessions and maintenance treatments for prolonged effectiveness. It’s highly recommended to follow all post-treatment care instructions provided by your healthcare provider. These often include avoiding sun exposure on the treated areas and using specific skincare products that are gentle on the skin.
