Post Care

Laser hair removal treatments have a very short recovery time and low risk of complications. However, if the skin appears broken or a blister appears after treatment,please apply antibiotic ointment and contact the office immediately. Keep the affected area moisturized and avoid direct sunlight.

In rare cases, hives have been reported after laser hair removal treatments. If you experience an irritated, raised rash after hair removal treatment, please contact the office. Benadryl may be taken to help relieve the itchiness, as long as it is not contraindicated with any of your current medications or medical conditions.

Important: Do not use any other hair removal methods or products on the treated area during the course of your treatments (tweezing, waxing, and depilatories), as it will prevent you from achieving your best results.

If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, please contact 911.

First 24 Hours

• A cold compress or an ice pack can be used to provide comfort if the treated area is especially warm. This is typically only needed within the first 12 hours after treatment.
• Skin may appear red and swollen or have a mild sunburn sensation. This is a normal reaction. It can last from a few hours to days after treatment. Applying an ice pack for the first 24 hours will help minimize swelling.
• Makeup may be applied immediately after treatment as long as skin integrity has not been compromised.

For 1 week

• Vitamin E or Aloe Vera applied to the treatment area may provide a soothing effect. Post treatment discomfort is typically minimal, but if the area is very uncomfortable, oral pain relievers; i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol or Advil, may be used, so long as they are not contraindicated with any of your medications or medical conditions.
• There may be erythema (redness) and slight edema (swelling) around the treated areas. Often they are lighter in appearance and look somewhat smudgy or less defined.
• In the unusual case of crusting of the skin in the treated area, apply an antibiotic ointment twice per day to the affected areas. Do not pick these areas, as this may result in infection or scarring.

For 2 weeks

• Freckles and sunspots may turn slightly darker initially and then flake off within 7-14 days. This is a normal reaction. 
• Strictly avoid any sun exposure to the treated area(s) for a minimum of 14 days after the procedure. The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation changes, which can be permanent. After 14 days, keep the area covered and use a sun block with SPF 30 or above and reapply every 2 hours. Delayed blistering secondary to sun exposure has been noted up to 72 hours post treatment.
• If in the middle of a series of treatments, sun exposure should be avoided between treatments and a sunblock should be used on a daily basis.

Until Fully Healed

• Avoid all of the following:
  • Use of scented lotions or soaps, exfoliant creams (Retin-A, glycolic/salicylic and alpha-hydroxy acids), acne creams or gels, shampoo or hair products touching the treated area(s), loofa sponges and aggressive scrubbing
  • Hot or cold water – only wash with tepid water
  • Shaving
  • Swimming pools and spas with multiple chemicals/chlorine
  • Activities that cause sweating

Please read these instructions carefully to ensure nothing is missed. Proper post-care not only minimizes the risk of complications and speeds up healing—it also helps achieve the best possible results.)