Laser Hair Removal Aftercare: Sun, Skin and the Days After Treatment
Good aftercare protects your skin and helps you get the most from every session. Here is what to do, and what to avoid, after laser.
The care you give your skin after laser hair removal is just as important as the treatment itself. A few simple habits keep skin comfortable and protected between sessions, and help your course progress smoothly.
What is normal straight after treatment
Mild redness and slight swelling around the follicles are common and usually settle within a few hours. The area may feel warm, similar to mild sunburn. A cool compress can help.
The first 24 to 48 hours
- Avoid hot baths, saunas, steam rooms and swimming pools.
- Skip intense exercise that makes you sweat heavily.
- Avoid perfumed products, deodorant on treated underarms, and active skincare such as acids or retinoids on the area.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing over treated areas.
Sun protection throughout your course
Treated skin is more sensitive to the sun. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF to exposed areas every day, avoid sunbathing and sunbeds, and do not use fake tan on the area during your course. If you have a holiday planned, let your technician know so your sessions can be scheduled around it.
Shedding is part of the process
In the one to three weeks after a session, treated hairs may appear to keep growing before they shed. This is normal. Let them fall out naturally, and shave rather than wax or pluck if you need to tidy the area.
When to get in touch
If you notice blistering, crusting, significant swelling or anything that worries you, contact the salon and seek medical advice. Your safety always comes first.
New to laser? Start with our guide to how a laser course works, or visit the Laser Hair Removal page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go in the sun after laser hair removal?
Avoid sunbathing and sunbeds during your course, and apply high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen to treated areas every day.
Why are hairs still growing after my session?
Treated hairs often appear to grow for one to three weeks before shedding. This is a normal part of the process.
When can I exercise after laser?
Avoid intense exercise, saunas and hot baths for 24 to 48 hours after treatment.
This article is general information and is not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication that affects your skin, speak to your GP or pharmacist before treatment and tell your technician at your appointment. Prices, availability and treatment details are confirmed on Fresha when you book.
