What happens when it’s time to don your comfy coat and scarf? At CNY Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery, it signifies the beginning of one of the world’s most popular winter grooming rituals—laser hair removal season! In case you missed the memo, the fall and winter are ideal months to partake in laser hair removal.
Here’s how to get the most out of your laser hair removal treatments:
1. Start shaving (and only shaving).
Stop waxing, plucking, and electrolysis for several weeks before your laser hair removal treatment. The laser targets the root of your hair, so removing your root with plucking or waxing will prevent laser hair removal from doing its job. You can even shave up until the day of your treatment. The shorter your hair growth, the easier it will be for the laser to locate and destroy your hair follicles.
2. Put tanning on hold (hopefully forever!) and protect your skin.
Tanning is the worst thing you can to your skin. It increases your risk of skin cancer, prematurely ages you, and, if that’s not bad enough, increases your risk for complications after any laser skin treatment, including laser hair removal.
That said, there are other reasons to avoid tanning before laser hair removal. Laser hair removal works best when there’s an obvious contrast between the pigment of your skin and the pigment of your hair follicles. Ideally, laser hair removal loves lighter skin with darker hair follicles for a maximum contrast. This is why fall and winter are ideal, because you’re less likely to have a tan during the cooler months. Tans from tanning beds and tanning lotions count, too.
3. Plan ahead!
Your hair will begin to disappear after your first session, but you’ll likely need more than one treatment for your best results. We typically perform a series of 5 laser hair removal treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. This is why it’s best to start your treatments in the fall and winter—months before swimsuit season rolls around again.
While laser hair removal can be performed safely any time of year, the cooler months are easier times for treatment because you’re inside more often and naturally protected from the sun. Just remember to always wear sunscreen when outdoors—no matter what month it is! To find out more about laser hair removal, call 315.663.0112 or request a consultation today!
