Laser hair removal is a highly effective way to get rid of unwanted hair. The treatment can leave your skin silky smooth for years—or even permanently. Many athletes, such as swimmers, cyclists, and runners, choose laser hair removal to improve their performance.
As with any skincare treatment, following aftercare instructions is the best way to make sure you get the results you want. Your skin may be sensitive for a few days after laser hair removal, so you should give it time to recover. That includes using gentle products, staying out of the sun, and waiting at least 48 hours before exercising.
Can You Workout After Laser Hair Removal?
You can work out after laser hair removal, but you probably shouldn’t – at least not for a few days.
One of the main goals of laser hair removal aftercare is to keep the skin clean and dry. Trapping moisture against the treated area can irritate the skin, particularly if fabric is rubbing against it as well. This can be a particular concern if you have laser hair removal in the bikini area.
Close-fitting workout clothes can trap sweat and create friction in the area. Not only will it be uncomfortable right after treatment, but it can also lead to skin abrasions that scar.
You also want to stay away from saunas, hot tubs, and swimming pools right after laser hair removal. High temperatures won’t feel good on sensitive skin. In addition, pools, hot tubs, and saunas can be hosts to bacteria. There is a low risk of infection after laser hair removal, but it’s safer to avoid environments that increase that risk.
How Long Should I Wait After Laser Hair Removal to Workout?
You should plan to baby your skin for at least two days after laser hair removal. That includes staying out of the gym. Skipping a workout or two after laser hair removal helps you avoid irritating still-tender skin, which can lead to infections and scarring.
What happens if you don’t wait to exercise after laser hair removal?
After a laser hair removal treatment, you might notice some mild inflammation and slight tenderness. It might feel a bit like a sunburn.
Heat and sweat can further aggravate the skin, leading to more discomfort and inflammation. This can increase redness, irritation, and even lead to blisters if you aren’t careful. It’s best to let your skin fully heal before getting back in the gym.
How to Protect Your Skin While Exercising
As a general rule, you should be gentle with your skin during and after working out, especially after laser hair removal.
Raising your body temperature causes the small blood vessels near the surface of your skin to expand, bringing extra blood flow to help cool your skin and muscles. This can make you more prone to scrapes and bruises if you accidentally knock into something. Keep your eyes open and your headphones turned down so you can be aware of potential obstacles whenever you exercise.
It’s best to shower and change into clean clothes as soon as possible after exercise. Damp workout gear traps sweat next to your skin. That can lead to chafing or irritation. It also creates a hospitable environment for microorganisms like bacteria or yeast. If you have any areas with broken skin, the bacteria can increase your risk of skin infections. It can also increase your risk of vaginal yeast infections, which are aggravating and uncomfortable.
More Laser Hair Removal Aftercare Tips
In addition to giving yourself a couple of rest days from your usual fitness routine, you should give your skin some TLC for about 48 hours after treatment:
- Use cool compresses to soothe any redness or soreness.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to reduce pain and discomfort.
- Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds, as recently treated skin can be more prone to hyperpigmentation.
- Don’t use abrasive body scrubs.
- Stay away from skincare products with strong fragrances, which can irritate the skin.
- Ask your dermatologist before using prescription skincare treatments such as retinol.
- Wait about 48 hours to shave the treated area.
Because laser skin treatments and laser hair removal make the skin more prone to hyperpigmentation, if you exercise outside, always wear sun protection. If you use prescription skincare products like tretinoin, you’ll also be more sensitive to sun exposure.
Cover up or use a broad-spectrum sunscreen when you’re outdoors. Reapply every hour or so to make sure your skin stays protected.
Get the Best Results With Professional Care
At Laser by Monica, we offer expert laser hair removal treatment and give you the aftercare support that ensures you get great results.
For the best laser hair removal in Manhattan, contact Laser by Monica. We are happy to work with you to deliver a customized treatment plan that works for you!