If you’ve booked a laser hair removal session and were told to shave ahead of time, please do! Shaving before laser hair removal is more than a suggestion. It’s a crucial prep step that can seriously impact your results. Skipping it could mean a less effective treatment, more irritation, and even the risk of minor burns.
So why does this step matter so much? Let’s get into why shaving is important, how it affects the results of your laser treatment, and what else you can do to prep your skin for success.
The Science Behind Shaving and Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal works because of the pigment (melanin) in your hair. The laser beam goes straight through the surface of your skin and into the hair follicle below, where the pigment absorbs the heat and damages the follicle just enough to stop new hair from growing.
It’s precise, but it needs a clear path. Shaving before laser hair removal removes surface hair that would otherwise absorb the laser’s energy. That surface hair can interfere with the laser’s accuracy and even cause it to burn or singe the exposed strands.
So, Is Shaving Necessary Before Laser Hair Removal?
Absolutely. If you don’t shave beforehand, the laser can’t effectively reach the follicle. It’s like trying to get a clean shot through a foggy window. When you shave, you remove that surface hair so the laser can cleanly pass into the follicle.
No distractions. No damage to your skin. Just accurate hair removal.
Bonus Benefit: Smoother Skin
There’s one more perk to shaving before your session—it gently exfoliates your skin.
Shaving removes dead skin cells on the skin’s surface along with the hair. This helps the laser glide more smoothly and reduces the chance of ingrown hairs.
Think of it as a little tune-up for your skin before your appointment. Just don’t overdo it; no aggressive scrubbing or old razors!
What About Other Hair Removal Methods?
Shaving is the only method that works with laser hair removal.
Waxing or plucking pulls hair out by the root. This may sound great in theory, until you realize that it leaves nothing for the laser to target. If the follicle is empty, the laser can’t do its job.
So if you’re preparing for laser hair removal, skip the wax and put those tweezers down for at least three to four weeks.
Can I Use Shaving Cream Before Laser Hair Removal?
You can use shaving cream before laser hair removal. Just opt for a gentle, fragrance-free formula that won’t irritate your skin. And always use a clean, sharp razor.
The goal is to minimize surface hair without causing any nicks, bumps, or redness before your treatment.
Preparing for Laser Hair Removal: Tips and Tricks
If you’re serious about laser hair removal, show up prepared. A few small habits can mean better results, less discomfort, and smoother skin.
Here’s how:
- Shave before your laser hair removal, ideally 12 to 24 hours before your session. This gives your skin time to calm down from any minor irritation.
- Avoid lotions, deodorants, or oils on the day of. Clean, dry skin is best, so there’s nothing between you and the laser.
- Keep wax and tweezers off-limits for three to four weeks leading up to your session. Let those follicles stay intact so the laser can work its magic.
- Wear soft, loose clothing, especially if you’re treating a larger area. You don’t want any chaffing post-session.
- Stay out of the sun. Lasers don’t mix well with tanned or sunburned skin.
Treat your skin well before and after, and the results will speak for themselves.
Why It Matters Where You Go
Laser hair removal isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. Skin tone, hair type, sensitivity, and even your pain tolerance all play a role in how someone should approach your sessions. That’s why it’s critical to work with someone who knows exactly what they’re doing.
The New York City laser hair removal landscape is competitive, but not all studios are created equal.
At Laser by Monica, the treatments are personalized for you. Monica’s approach is no-nonsense and totally results-driven. Our laser hair removal studio in NYC is designed to get you in, get you smooth, and get you out without the fluff—just real expertise in a calm, elevated setting.
For Laser Hair Removal in New York City, Trust Laser By Monica
Shaving before laser hair removal is the mandatory first step toward making sure your session actually works. It helps the laser reach the hair follicle, protects your skin from burns, and gets you better, faster results. Add in a few simple prep steps, and you’re on your way to smoother skin that lasts.
When you’re ready for results that last, trust Laser by Monica in New York City to get your laser hair removal done right.