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Laser Hair Removal Care & Preparation Guidelines

Proper preparation and aftercare are essential for safe treatment and optimal results. The guidelines below help reduce sensitivity, support skin comfort, and improve overall outcomes.

Laser Pre-Treatment Guidelines

Hair Removal Methods
  • For at least 6 weeks before treatment, avoid waxing, tweezing, plucking, threading, bleaching, depilatory creams, or hair coloring in the treatment area.

  • Shaving is the only permitted method before and between sessions, as it preserves the hair follicle needed for effective treatment.​

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Sun Exposure & Tanning
  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds 6 weeks prior to treatment. Use SPF 50 in the area at all time. 

  • No self-tanner for 7 days prior to treatment and ensure all self-tanning residue is removed. 

  • Treating tanned skin increases the risk of burns and pigment changes.

Skin Sensitivity & History

Disclose any history of cold sores or related skin sensitivities. Preventative medication may be recommended to reduce the risk of irritation or flare-ups.​

Medications & Skincare
  • Disclose all medications and topical products.

  • Stop topical retinoids, exfoliants, acids, and prescription creams 3–5 days before treatment.

  • Accutane (Isotretinoin) must be discontinued for at least 6 months prior to treatment. 

  • Some medications may require postponement.

Skin Preparation
  • Arrive clean-shaven and free of lotions, creams, makeup, deodorant, oils, or perfumes on the day of your appointment.

  • A $30 shaving fee may apply if you arrive unshaven.

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Treatment Timing

Laser hair removal sessions are scheduled according to the treatment area and natural hair growth cycles. Your recommended timing will be reviewed during consultation.

Laser Post-Treatment Guidelines

Normal Skin Reactions

  • Mild redness, swelling, or warmth is normal for a few hours.

  • This usually subsides within 24 hours.

Protect from the Sun

  • Apply SPF 30+ daily to exposed areas.

  • Avoid direct sun for 2 weeks post-treatment.

  • Sun exposure can cause darkening or uneven pigmentation.

Skip Harsh Products

Avoid for 5–7 days after treatment:

  • Retinol

  • Acids

  • Scrubs

  • Peels

Stick to gentle skincare only.

Shedding is Normal

  • Treated hairs will shed over 1–3 weeks.

  • This is not regrowth—it means the treatment worked.

  • You may gently exfoliate after 5–7 days to help with shedding.

Do Not Irritate the Area

  • Do not scratch, exfoliate, or pick the area.

  • Let skin heal naturally.​

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Soothe & Hydrate

Apply: Aloe vera gel, Fragrance-free moisturizer and/or Post-treatment soothing gel. Use as needed for comfort.

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Avoid Heat 24-48 Hours

For the first 1–2 days, avoid:

  • Hot showers

  • Saunas / steam rooms

  • Hot tubs

  • Intense workouts

Heat can worsen irritation.

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Located in the Maynard Office Center

1210 SE Maynard Rd; STE 104 

Cary, NC 27511

Andrea Arnold

919-249-8831

Hours of Operation

Mon: 12:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Tues-Thurs: 9:30 am - 6:30 pm

Fri: 10 am - 6 pm

Sat: 10 am - 2:30 pm

©2025 by Haute Hair Removal & Aesthetics of Cary, NC

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