Prepping properly before a Manzilian appointment, the male version of Brazilian laser hair removal, makes a bigger difference than most men expect. Skipping the preparation steps is one of the main reasons results can become inconsistent.
The treatment area needs to be shaved, not waxed or plucked, in the weeks leading up to the session, since laser hair removal for men requires the hair follicle to remain intact. Sun exposure, certain skincare products, and some medications can also affect how the skin responds.
IGBeauty has been performing laser hair removal in Toronto since 2010, using FDA- and Health Canada-approved laser technology for Brazilian laser hair removal for women and Manzilian sessions for men.
Here’s your guide to preparing for a Manzilian at your local laser clinic in Toronto.
What to Do in the Weeks Before Your Appointment
Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading the treatment area for at least four to six weeks before your first Manzilian session. The laser targets pigment within the hair follicle, so the follicle needs to remain intact for the treatment to work.
You should also limit sun exposure and tanning during this period. Treating recently tanned or sunburned skin may increase the risk of irritation and other reactions. If you use hair removal creams, ask your laser technician when you should stop using them, since these products may irritate the skin before treatment.
Why Shave Before a Laser Hair Removal Session?
Shaving is the recommended hair removal method before a session and should ideally be done one to two days beforehand. Waxing, threading, or plucking removes the hair from the follicle, but that follicle is what the laser needs to target.
Using one of these methods before a Manzilian appointment may prevent the laser from effectively treating the affected area. Shaving removes hair above the skin while leaving the follicle available for treatment.
What to Avoid in the 48 Hours Before Your Session
Avoid applying lotions, deodorants, perfumes, oils, or other products to the treatment area immediately before your Manzilian appointment. Product buildup may interfere with treatment or make the skin more sensitive.
You should also avoid intense sun exposure and tanning beds in the days leading up to your session, since freshly tanned skin can be more sensitive to laser treatment. Tell your provider about any medications, supplements, or topical products you use so they can determine whether additional precautions are needed.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Laser Session
Arrive with the treatment area clean, freshly shaved, and free of lotions, deodorants, and other products. Most Manzilian sessions are relatively quick, with the sensation often described as similar to the snap of a rubber band. The exact treatment time depends on the size of the area being addressed.
Full results typically require five to seven sessions spaced six to eight weeks apart. Hair grows in cycles, and the laser can only effectively target follicles in an active growth phase at the time of treatment. Our team at IGBeauty will map out an appropriate session schedule with you during your initial appointment.
Aftercare Basics to Keep in Mind
Mild redness or sensitivity in the treated area is normal for a short period afterward and usually settles within a day. Avoiding sun exposure, hot showers, strenuous exercise, and tight clothing over the treated area for a day or two can help minimize irritation while the skin settles.
You should also avoid waxing, plucking, or threading between Manzilian sessions. Keeping the follicle intact is just as important between appointments as it is before your first treatment. Shaving can generally be used to manage hair growth between sessions.
Get Manzilian Laser Hair Removal for Men With IGBeauty
Our team at IGBeauty uses FDA- and Health Canada-approved laser technology and walks every client through the Manzilian preparation process before their first session. If you’re getting ready for an upcoming appointment, following these steps can help your treatment work as intended while reducing unnecessary skin irritation.
