Get Fur-Real Results: Your Guide to Laser Hair Removal Aftercare

Are you looking for the most painless permanent hair removal procedure?

"Laser hair removal is the most efficient way to gradually transform furry limbs into pliable, seal-like limbs," says Dr. Deepesh Goyal, the founder of Rejuvena Cosmo Care, Jaipur's excellent plastic surgery clinic.

So if you are ready to subscribe to (semi-) hairlessness, here's what you can expect after laser hair removal.

What to do after laser hair removal

A dermatologist usually performs laser hair removal. Concentrated rays of light are used to target hair follicles and break up their roots.

Here's what to do after laser hair removal, whether it's your panty line or your pets:

Keep your composure: To reduce swelling after surgery, apply an ice pack or cool cloth.
Take your medication exactly as directed: To relieve pain and promote healing, your dermatologist may prescribe a steroid cream or other treatments.
Protect your skin from the sun's rays: You will have to wait about a month before you can showcase your new skin. (Do not expose the affected area to the sun for a month before the procedure.)

What to expect after laser hair removal to get off to a smooth start

To minimize side effects, your dermatologist will consider your individual skin and hair type, lifestyle and medication when choosing the right laser and performing the treatment.

Your job is not done when the lasers go out. To reduce the risk of side effects and for the best results, give gentle TLC to the affected areas.

Even if you follow your doctor's instructions carefully, you can expect the following side effects after the procedure:

Discoloration
swelling
Redness
slight discomfort

According to Dr. Deepesh Goyal, one of Jaipur's top plastic surgeon, will fade in 1 to 3 days.

There is something wrong.

If you get more serious side effects such as:

severe swelling
Burns or blisters
severe pain that does not respond to medication your doctor has prescribed
Scarring or changes in pigmentation
Symptoms of infection (such as pus, discoloration, or redness)
Side effects that persist after three days

This is how you can take care of yourself after laser hair removal.

Although laser hair removal is a non-invasive procedure, it is important to take precautions to get the best results.

After the procedure, your dermatologist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your skin. This is what Dr. Deepesh Goyal from Jaipur in general.

Stay calm.

The lasers have heated your skin; now is the time to cool it down. Regularly apply a clean, soft washcloth with cold water to the affected area.

To reduce swelling and discomfort, use an ice pack wrapped in a paper towel.

Take or use medication exactly as prescribed.

To relieve afterburn, your doctor may prescribe a steroid cream.

To relieve symptoms, you can take Tylenol or an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agent, but check with your dermatologist first.

Protect your skin from the sun's rays.

It may feel like a chore keeping your freshly smooth legs off the beach for a month, but it's exactly what the doctor ordered.

Avoid exposure to the sun in the treatment area for a month before and a month after the procedure, as the affected area is particularly sensitive.

After that time has passed, apply the sunscreen.

What about lasers that can be used at home?

Aftercare for laser hair removal at home is almost identical. When it comes to DIY, you can't pick the best method and type of laser for your hair and skin type.

So you just go with the flow. However, experts advise consulting a laser hair removal specialist. Without professional guidance, you are also more likely to have serious side effects.

On the other hand, they are "modestly effective," says Dr. Deepesh Goyal, the founder of Rejuvena Cosmo Care.

You shouldn't do this after laser hair removal.

There are a few points to avoid while your skin is healing after the procedure.

Here is a list of things not to do:

Do not plan any treatment within the next 4 to 6 weeks: Multiple treatments may be required to achieve the results you want, but your skin will take time to heal in the meantime.
Waxing and tweezers are not recommended: Pulling and tugging on the skin can make the situation worse.
Don't get a tan: Spending too much time in the sun (or tanning beds) can cause severe burns or permanent hyperpigmentation. Return to your beach bunny routine after a month.
Do not use tanning lotion: There won't be a false tan, at least for a week. Tanning lotions often contain chemicals that can cause rashes, burns, or bumps.
Applying fragrant, fruity, or perfumed products to the area is not a good idea: Avoid using fragrances, detergents, or perfumes for a week after the procedure. Since the site is vulnerable, harsh chemicals can cause a reaction.
Deodorants should not be used (if you have laser hair removal in the armpits): Imagine for about seven days that you are in the 19th century.
Body scrubs should not be used: After that, avoid harsh exfoliants for about a week.
Showering and bathing shouldn't be too hot: If you want to jump into a * scalding * shower again, give it at least 48 hours. Also avoid the saunas and steam rooms.
Do not use the pool or hot tub: Avoid chlorine or harsh chemicals for at least a week.

Stubby areas: can you shave after laser hair removal?

Are your stubble still there after laser hair removal? According to Dr. Deepesh Goyal, your initial laser hair removal will remove 10 to 25% of the hair in the treatment area.

It is completely normal. Although tweezers and waxes are not recommended, you can shave about a week after the laser if you are careful.

Wait until the swelling, discomfort, or discoloration has subsided before proceeding.

Never shave the skin if it:

red or discolored
ignited
painful or irritated

According to Dr. Deepesh Goyal, it takes six treatments for most people to remove their hair altogether.

What skin care products can I use after laser treatment?

While waiting for your skin to heal, you may need to make some changes to your skin care regimen.

Remember to use lukewarm water: for at least a week after your procedure. Even if you like to take a hot shower. For now, you have to settle for something a little more subdued. The area can be watered with hot water.
Use everything fragrance-free: For sensitive skin, look for moisturizing, gentle lotions and cleansers. Also, avoid harsh scrubs and peels. If in doubt, 100 percent aloe vera should be sufficient.
Skip the shaving cream: Just remember that if you want to avoid problems, you should avoid shaving for at least a week. Depilatory creams are the same way.

About the author:

Murshid Paravath is a passionate health blogger. Likes to write on any health-related topic that affects different parts of the body and to speak to her readers about the care that needs to be taken in today's world.