Skin Care Products to Avoid Before Laser Hair Removal

Keeping your skin healthy throughout the laser hair removal process is essential to your comfort during and after treatments. While laser hair removal in Toronto does not actually physically alter your skin, treatments can make your skin a bit more sensitive. This is why you need to be extremely careful regarding the skincare products you use before and after your laser hair removal sessions. Certain products can cause irritation or discolouration and should be avoided during laser hair removal. We will break down skincare products that are safe vs. those that should be avoided so that you can have pleasant laser sessions.

Contact IGBeauty today for laser hair removal for men and women. 

Why You Need to Avoid Certain Skin Care Products Before Treatment

Laser hair removal is always to be conducted on clean skin. This means that before your sessions, you should not apply any kind of skincare products, including moisturizer or deodorant. You should be freshly showered and shaved, that's it. Skincare products can prevent the laser from effectively targeting the hair follicles, leading to poor results. In addition to this, active skincare products can significantly increase your skin sensitivity after your laser hair removal sessions. This can lead to redness, irritation and overall discomfort. 

Products to Avoid Before & After Laser Hair Removal in Toronto

• Exfoliating Acids: This includes any kind of product like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid. On their own, these products can increase skin sensitivity, and when paired with laser hair removal, you risk over-exfoliation and excess irritation. It is best to avoid these products 3-5 days before and after a session.
• Retinoids and Vitamin A Derivatives: This includes any kind of retinol, tretinoin or adapalene products. These products boost skin cell turnover and make your skin much more sensitive to the sun and light. Avoiding these products will help reduce redness and irritation.
• Self-Tanners: Self-tanners will deepen your skin tone artificially, making it a bit more challenging for the laser to target your hair follicles. This increases your risk of burns. You should avoid tanning entirely while getting laser hair removal.
• Heavy Oils and Occlusives: Oils, petroleum jelly or skin butters and balms are incredibly thick and create an occlusive barrier. This again can make it difficult for the laser to penetrate your hair follicles. Ensure that you avoid these 24 hours before your session. They can be used as usual right after your session.
• Prescription Medications: Sometimes, certain prescription medications should not be used during laser hair removal. Prescription or over-the-counter NSAIDS, along with prescription acne medications, should be avoided. However, it is always best to consult your doctor about medication use when getting laser hair removal in Toronto.

Keep Your Skin Healthy During Laser Hair Removal

If you want to keep your skin healthy and comfortable throughout your laser sessions, it is vital that you adjust your skincare routine accordingly. Certain products can inhibit optimal laser performance and can also increase skin sensitivity during and after sessions. In the days leading up to your laser hair removal appointment, avoid harsh skincare products and keep your routine simple. 

Reach out to IGBeauty today for laser hair removal for men and women.