Laser & Body

Laser Hair Removal

Learn how to prepare for laser hair removal, what to expect after treatment, and how to care for the treated area throughout your treatment series.

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Treatment Overview

About Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal targets hairs during the active growth phase. Because not every hair is in the same growth phase at the same time, multiple treatments are generally necessary to achieve optimal hair reduction.

Individual treatment plans and results vary.

Before Your Appointment

Preparing for Your Treatment

2–4 Weeks Before Treatment
- Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners.
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily to all areas being treated.
- Do not wax, tweeze, thread, or use depilatory creams because these methods remove the hair follicle needed for treatment.
- Shaving is allowed and encouraged.
1 Week Before Treatment
- Avoid chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and other aggressive exfoliating treatments in the treatment area.
- Inform the provider if you begin any new medications, especially antibiotics or medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight.
3 Days Before Treatment
Stop using the following products on the treatment area:
- Retin-A
- Retinol
- Tretinoin
- Glycolic acid
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Other irritating skincare products
24 Hours Before Treatment
- Shave the treatment area thoroughly.
- On the day of the appointment, do not apply lotions, oils, deodorant, perfume, makeup, or sunscreen to the treatment area.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing when a body area is being treated.

What You May Experience After Treatment

Mild redness

Slight swelling around the hair follicles

Warmth similar to a mild sunburn

Temporary tenderness

These effects generally resolve within several hours but may last for approximately 2–3 days.

Hair Shedding After Treatment

Treated hair gradually sheds over approximately 1–3 weeks. This is an expected part of the process and is not new hair growth.

After Your Treatment

Post-Treatment Care

First 24–48 Hours
- Apply cool compresses as needed.
- Aloe vera or a gentle moisturizer may be used for comfort.
- Avoid hot showers, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and excessive heat.
- Avoid strenuous exercise that causes heavy sweating.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing over treated areas.
For 2 Weeks
- Avoid direct sun exposure whenever possible.
- Apply SPF 30 or higher every day.
- Do not wax, tweeze, or thread between appointments.
- Shaving is encouraged if needed.

Caring for the Treated Area

Wash treated areas using a gentle cleanser.
Avoid harsh scrubs and exfoliation for approximately 5–7 days.
Resume active skincare products only after the skin has completely calmed.

How Many Treatments May Be Needed?

01
6–8 Treatments
Most patients require approximately 6–8 treatments for optimal hair reduction.
02
Facial Treatments
Treatments for facial areas are generally scheduled approximately every 4–6 weeks.
03
Body Treatments
Treatments for body areas are generally scheduled approximately every 6–8 weeks.
04
Maintenance
Occasional maintenance treatments may be recommended.

The number and timing of treatments vary based on the patient, treatment area, hair-growth cycle, and provider recommendation.

Contact Elevate Evansville Immediately If You Experience:

Blistering
Severe pain
Increasing redness after 72 hours
Drainage or signs of infection
Significant swelling that worsens instead of improving

812-401-8720

Tips for Best Results

Keep appointments on schedule.

Shave between treatments if needed.

Avoid tanning throughout the treatment series.

Wear sunscreen every day.

Stay well hydrated.

Be patient because hair sheds gradually over several weeks.