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Finishing a laser hair removal session can be a massive step toward smooth, hair-free skin. Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target the pigment in hair follicles. But without the proper aftercare, the skin can react with redness, bumps, or irritation that could have been avoided.
At Glo Bar Medspa, we often see this with clients who want a lasting solution to hair removal but don’t realize that post-treatment care is as critical as the treatment itself. We used modern devices in laser hair removal in Costa Mesa, CA, designed to be more comfortable than older systems and work in a broader variety of skin tones.
If you’re tired of shaving, fed up with razor burn, or want to skip waxing appointments, following the correct aftercare routine will keep your skin healthy and maximize the benefits of your sessions.
Aftercare: How to Care for Your Skin
Right after (first 24–48 hours)
The hours and days following your session are critical for protecting your skin and ensuring the best results. After treatment, cool the area with a soft, damp cloth or a wrapped ice pack. This helps reduce heat and calm any irritation. Clean and hydrate the skin with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel.
Some providers recommend a thin layer of hydrocortisone cream if the skin feels itchy or inflamed, but always check before applying anything new. For at least the first 48 hours, skip hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms. Heat can worsen redness and slow down recovery. Strenuous exercise should also be avoided, since sweating can irritate the treated area. Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent friction.
Days 3 to 7
Protecting your skin from the sun is one of the most essential parts of aftercare. If exposed to UV rays, freshly treated skin is more prone to pigmentation changes. Avoid direct sunlight for at least a week, and wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily. This isn’t just for the first few days—consistent sunscreen use between sessions will keep your skin even-toned and healthy.
Avoid exfoliating products like scrubs, retinoids, or acids for about five to seven days as your skin recovers. Once redness has faded, gentle exfoliation can help loosen shedding hairs, but never pick or force them out. Allow them to fall naturally to avoid irritation or infection.
Between Sessions (Up to Next Appointment)
Between appointments, shave if you need to remove hair. Don’t wax, tweeze, or utilize depilatory creams; these will remove the follicle and interfere with the next laser session.
Do you want to know more? Please get in touch with Glo Bar Medspa today!
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
People often choose laser hair removal in Costa Mesa, CA, because it offers long-term results without other hair removal methods’ daily or weekly upkeep. Instead of battling ingrown hairs or enduring the sting of waxing strips, you can enjoy smooth skin with minimal maintenance.
There’s also the matter of convenience. Once you complete your sessions, you can spend less time in front of the mirror shaving or tweezing. Your skin feels softer because there’s no blunt stubble growing back, and many find they no longer experience the constant irritation that razors or depilatory creams can cause.
Beyond the physical changes, clients frequently share how much confidence they gain knowing they can wear shorts, dresses, or swimsuits without worrying about stray hairs or visible irritation.
What to Expect
Before Your Session
Preparation starts well before your appointment. Do not wax, pluck, or use depilatory creams for at least two weeks beforehand. These procedures remove the hair root, which the laser needs to target. Shaving is the only hair removal procedure you should utilize before treatment, and it should be done within 24 hours of your session.
This leaves the hair shaft inside the follicle but removes it from the skin’s surface, making treatment more comfortable. Tanning—natural or from self-tanners—should also be avoided before your appointment.
Darkened skin can interfere with the laser’s accuracy and increase the risk of side effects. This includes sun exposure, so if you’re outdoors, apply SPF regularly and cover the treatment area when possible.
During Treatment
When you arrive, your provider will clean the area and may apply a cooling gel to keep the skin comfortable. The laser device delivers light pulses to the targeted hair follicles. Many people describe the sensation as a quick snap against the skin, often compared to the feeling of a rubber band.
Thanks to built-in cooling systems, most find the procedure tolerable—usually less uncomfortable than waxing. Session length is based on the size of the area. A small area like the underarms might take only 10 to 15 minutes, while a larger area, such as the legs, could take 30 to 45 minutes.
Post-laser Treatment Care
You can quickly resume normal activities, but your skin will be more sensitive than usual. Skin irritation after laser hair removal may occur, such as redness and mild swelling, which are common in the first 24 to 48 hours, similar to the sensation of a light sunburn. Some hairs will appear to “grow” after treatment, but this is them shedding from the damaged follicles over the next week or two.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I shower after laser hair removal?
You can shower a few hours after treatment, but stick to cool or lukewarm water. Avoid soaking in hot baths for 24 to 48 hours to keep irritation to a minimum.
Can I wear makeup or deodorant after treatment?
It’s best to avoid makeup, deodorant, and fragranced lotions on the treated area for the first 24 hours. These products can clog pores or trigger irritation while the skin is sensitive.
When can I go back to my regular skincare routine?
Wait until your skin feels completely calm—usually the laser hair removal recovery time is within five to seven days—before reintroducing active ingredients like retinoids, glycolic acid, or strong exfoliants.
Why is sunscreen so crucial after sun exposure and laser hair removal?
Sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation or even burns on freshly treated skin. Daily sunscreen use protects against these risks and helps maintain even skin tone.
Are the results permanent?
Skin healing after laser hair removal provides long-term reduction, but it’s not always 100% permanent. Many people see lasting results, while others may notice some regrowth due to hormonal changes. Occasional maintenance sessions can keep the area smooth.
Glow Up Your Skin
At Glo Bar Medspa, we customize every treatment plan and guide you through each stage of care so you feel confident from your first appointment to your final results. Ready for Smooth, Hair‑Free Skin? Schedule a Consultation Now!
