For people who have long been troubled by excess hair, Ipl hair removal has become a popular choice due to its speed and effectiveness. Of course, skin care after hair removal can not only increase the treatment effect but also protect skin health. We will assess some suggestions about how to prepare & care for the skin.
What to Do Before IPL Hair Removal
Before using the IPL hair removal device, follow some necessary steps to achieve better hair removal results. We have outlined the steps for preparing for IPL hair removal:
Skip Hair Removal Methods That Pluck Hair
Avoid using hair removal methods like waxing, threading, or tweezing, as they pluck or pull the hair. These methods can disturb the hair follicle and reduce the effectiveness of IPL treatment. Shaving is recommended as it only removes hair on the surface without affecting the follicle.
Minimize Sun Exposure and Avoid Fake Tanning Products
Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid using sunbeds before your IPL treatment. Sun exposure can make your skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of complications. If you must be outside, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or 50 to the treatment area.
Additionally, do not use fake tanning products for 3 to 4 weeks before your treatment. Tanning products can cause the laser to target the skin's surface instead of the hair follicle, raising the risk of complications. If you've used a tanning product, exfoliate your skin thoroughly to remove any remnants.
Refrain from Using Heavy Skincare Products
Stop using heavy skincare products like retinoids and harsh exfoliants at least a week before your treatment. These products can increase skin sensitivity and the risk of adverse reactions.
Cleanse the Target Area
On the day of your treatment, clean the target area thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. Ensure that no makeup, lotions, perfumes, or other body products remain on your skin, as these can affect the efficacy of the IPL treatment.
Shave the Treatment Area
Shave the target area up to 2 inches away 24 hours prior to treatment. This step can enhance the effects of IPL treatment and reduce discomfort during treatment.
What NOT to Do Before IPL Hair Removal
Here are a few important things to AVOID before going in for that first session to ensure the most effective and comfortable laser hair removal experience:
No Coffee
This isn’t exactly required — but skipping your morning coffee on the day of your session can help avoid unnecessary skin sensitivity, especially if you have highly sensitive or reactive skin.
No Moisturizers
We hate feeling dry or like our skin is crusty-dusty. However, it is best to avoid using creams, oils, lotions, or moisturizers on the areas that will be laser-treated on the day of your session. The skin should be freshly clean, dry, and free of any skincare products before treatment.
No Plucking/Waxing
Starting four weeks before laser treatment, refrain from any hair removal technique that completely removes the hair or damages the follicle. That includes plucking, shaving, waxing, tweezing, and epilating.
Laser treatments work by targeting pigment in the hair follicle. Therefore, no hair in the follicle = no successful laser treatment.
No Tanning
Whether natural or artificial, a tan lowers the level of contrast between your skin and the hair color, which could decrease the effectiveness of the laser. What’s more, recent sun exposure can make your skin susceptible to burns and scarring during treatment.
In the weeks leading up to your laser appointment, stay out of the sun or use a strong SPF in the area, you will be treated to see the best results.
What to Do After IPL Treatment?
Skincare Products and Hydration
One of the best post-hair removal treatments is a cortisone cream. Many estheticians also tend to recommend steroid creams as post-hair removal creams. A gentle moisturizer, such as aloe vera gel, can also keep the skin moisturized. It is best to keep aloe vera in the refrigerator so that it can be applied when it is cold.
Proper hydration supports healthy skin and aids the healing process. Drink at least 8 glasses (about 2 liters) of water per day.
Cool the Treated Area
After your treatment, apply an ice pack or cold compress to the treated area for at least 30 minutes. If discomfort persists, repeat this process every 15 minutes for the next 3 hours. This helps reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
Wear Loose Clothing
Post-treatment, wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid friction on the treated area. This reduces skin irritation and promotes faster healing.
What NOT to Do After IPL Treatment?
Even though there is no downtime or recovery necessary with the IPL treatments, there are a few things we recommend that you NOT do after an IPL treatment:
Avoid Extremely Hot Showers or Saunas
Your hair cells are already damaged from the heat. If you have extra heat around that area, then you will experience further irritation. It’s best to avoid going through any sort of heat directly on the area you’ve done the laser on. For the first 48 hours post-treatment, avoid hot showers or baths. Opt for cold or lukewarm water instead, as hot water can increase skin irritation and prolong the healing process.
Avoid Working Out Too Hard
It can be tough to avoid exercising if you tend to live an active lifestyle. However, one of the recommended laser hair removal aftercare is to avoid sweating too much at least within 24 hours once you’ve done the treatment.
Avoid High UV Light Exposure
After permanent hair removal treatment, your skin will also be particularly sensitive to UV rays, and prolonged exposure may cause skin damage. Try to avoid exposing the treated area directly to light and protect your skin by wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and protective clothing such as a hat or visor.
Avoid Skin Care Products That Contain BHA/AHA
The skin’s protective layer will be extra sensitive after the treatment. There are certain skincare products that contain ingredients that could further increase skin sensitivity such as BHA/AHA. These ingredients will affect the healing process by creating a reaction to it as it’s made to exfoliate the skin. It could irritate.
Skip Physical Exfoliation
Refrain from using scrubs, chemical peels, or abrasive towels. Allow any peeling to occur naturally to avoid complications like scabs and scarring.
By adhering to these recommendations, you can promote healing and protect your skin following IPL treatments.
Why Do You Need To Care For Your Skin After IPL Hair Removal?
It’s important to prioritize post-hair removal care because the IPL hair removal process involves heating the hair bulb in the follicle, which can severely affect natural hair growth. As a result, your skin may become sensitive and dry after treatment. Proper post-treatment care can help soothe the skin, reduce discomfort, and prevent potential irritation or adverse reactions. Adequate skin care ensures your skin stays hydrated, prevents flaking, and promotes faster recovery.
Now that you know the best skincare practices after laser hair removal, you can proceed to perform your own IPL treatment at home! There’s no need to worry as you’ve already learned the necessary precautions. The SKG IPL hair removal device makes it easy for you to remove any unwanted hair right in the comfort of your own home.
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