Why Shave Before Laser Hair Removal?

The idea behind laser hair removal is that it eliminates the need for shaving. So why do you need to go through the hassle of shaving before your appointment?

We explain why shaving prior to your laser hair removal appointment will make the process smoother.

Shaving Before Laser Hair Removal

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Having a brief understanding of how laser hair removal works may help you better make sense of why you need to shave beforehand.

It is a medical procedure where light energy (the laser) is shone on the areas of skin you want hair removed from. This light energy turns to heat, which then damages the hair follicles beneath your skin. This then prevents, or at least slows, future hair growth.

Why Do I Need To Shave?

If the laser is producing heat, then it only makes sense that it will heat up what it comes into contact with.

While this is, of course, the desired effect when it comes to your hair follicles, heating up the strands of your hair is definitely not the goal. Not only will it irritate your skin, but your hair can actually burn, leaving that not-so-pleasant burnt hair smell behind.

How Far In Advance Do I Need To Shave?

It is recommended that you shave approximately 24 hours before your laser hair removal appointment. This relatively short timeframe allows for any irritations that resulted from shaving to settle while also not being so long that hair has already started to grow back.

It is also suggested that you get as close a shave as possible to your skin. Handheld razors are often recommended over electric ones, as electric razors risk leaving the hairs too long.

Do The Rules Change After My First Appointment?

It will take a few visits to see results. In the meantime, hair may continue to grow on your targetted area.

It’s important that you continue to stick with shaving. Plucking, waxing, or anything in between can compromise the process.

If your next appointment is coming up and you feel there is too much surface-level hair, definitely feel free to shave. It’ll prevent that aforementioned irritation and burning.

Laser hair removal affects each body differently. Take the time to care for your skin before and after each visit.

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