Laser Hair Removal Prep: A Step-by-Step Guide
Laser hair removal prep is the secret to getting the best possible results, whether you’re off to a professional clinic or using an at-home IPL device. If you skip the prep you could end up with irritation, patchy results or even the odd burn, which is not exactly the look you want before your next night out.
Think of it a bit like getting ready for Glastonbury or a summer holiday in Ibiza. The earlier you prep, the smoother the whole experience will be. With laser hair removal, that means paying attention to shaving, skincare, sun exposure and even the little things you do straight after treatment. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step so your skin feels calm, comfortable and ready for lasting smoothness.
Why Prep Matters for Laser Hair Removal
When it comes to laser hair removal, prep isn’t just a nice extra. It’s what makes the treatment work properly. The laser targets the pigment in your hair follicle. If your skin is too tanned, too sensitive, or the hair has already been removed from the root, the laser can’t do its job as effectively.
Skipping prep can lead to:
- Redness or irritation that lingers
- Patchy results because the laser couldn’t reach all the follicles
- A higher risk of burns, especially if you’ve had recent sun exposure or used strong skincare
Even the NHS advises avoiding the sun and pausing certain skincare before treatment to reduce burns and boost results. In short, the more you help your skin beforehand, the better the laser can do its work.
Quick Take: Why Laser Hair Removal Prep Matters
- Helps the laser target hair follicles properly
- Reduces irritation and side effects
- Makes results faster and longer-lasting
Laser Hair Removal Prep: What to Do 1–2 Weeks Before
The weeks leading up to your session are just as important as the day itself. Think of this stage as giving your skin the best possible conditions so the laser can do its work. A little planning goes a long way, and you’ll thank yourself later when your results are smoother and more consistent.
Here are the main things to do before laser hair removal:
- Avoid waxing, tweezing, or epilating — the laser needs the hair root to be intact, and these methods remove it completely. Stick to shaving instead.
- Press pause on tanning — whether it’s natural sun, a sunbed, or fake tan. Darker skin increases the risk of burns and makes it harder for the laser to find the hair follicle.
- Take a break from strong skincare — products with retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or harsh scrubs can make your skin extra sensitive. Stop these about a week before.
- Hydrate and moisturise — well-hydrated skin responds better to the laser. A simple fragrance-free moisturiser works best.
- Check medications — some antibiotics or acne treatments can make skin more photosensitive. If you’re unsure, ask your clinic or GP.
These small adjustments can make a huge difference. Think of it a bit like prepping for a holiday: packing in advance always means fewer last-minute problems. With laser prep, the earlier you start, the smoother your treatment will be.
Shaving Before Laser Hair Removal
One of the key steps in laser hair removal prep is shaving. People often ask, should I shave before laser hair removal? The answer is yes, and it is one of the most important things you can do. The laser needs the follicle under the skin to target, but surface hair can absorb too much heat and cause irritation. Shaving clears the surface while leaving the root intact.
Here’s what to keep in mind when shaving as part of your laser hair removal prep:
- Timing matters — shave 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. This gives the skin time to calm down if it feels a bit sensitive after shaving.
- Use a clean, sharp razor — a fresh blade lowers the risk of nicks and cuts.
- Choose a gentle shaving product — avoid foams or gels with heavy fragrance, as these can irritate the skin.
- Don’t over-shave — avoid going too close or dry shaving, as this can leave the skin red or sore on the day of your treatment.
This is an important step whether you are visiting a clinic or using an at-home IPL device. It might feel odd to shave just before a hair removal treatment, but as part of proper laser hair removal prep, it is what helps the laser work at its best and gives you smoother, longer-lasting results.
What Not to Do Before Laser Hair Removal
Just as important as what you should do is knowing what to avoid. Some habits and products can interfere with the treatment or make your skin more sensitive than it needs to be. Skipping these will help you get safer and smoother results.
Skip Hair Removal Methods That Remove the Root
Don’t wax, tweeze, or bleach. These remove or alter the hair at the root, which the laser needs to target. If you usually get your brows waxed before a night out or bleach your upper lip, it’s best to pause until your sessions are finished.
Avoid Products and Habits That Irritate Skin
- Avoid strong skincare. Products with retinoids, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid can leave your skin too sensitive for treatment. That overnight retinol serum might be great for fine lines, but it makes your skin more likely to sting under the laser.
- Stay out of heavy sun exposure. Tanning from the sun, a sunbed or even a quick fake tan before a festival increases the risk of burns and makes the laser less effective. Even a last-minute Ibiza glow can get in the way of your results.
- Skip deodorants, perfumes and lotions on the day. These can create a film on the skin or cause irritation during treatment. Think of it like going in with a clean slate: the simpler, the better.
It might feel like a lot to cut out, especially if you rely on these products daily, but remember it’s only temporary. Think of it as a short-term swap for a long-term gain. By avoiding these common laser hair removal prep mistakes, you’ll make your sessions safer and more effective.
Day of Your Laser Hair Removal Session
The day of your laser hair removal appointment is all about keeping things simple and comfortable. By this stage, you’ve already done the hard work with your laser hair removal prep, so now it’s just a case of showing up with skin that’s ready for treatment.
Here are the key things to do on the day:
- Clean, dry skin — make sure the area being treated is free from oils, lotions, deodorant or makeup. Even light products can act as a barrier or cause irritation.
- Shave the night before — or on the morning of your session if your skin isn’t too sensitive. This helps the laser reach the follicle without surface hair getting in the way.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing — cotton is best, as it won’t rub against your skin afterwards. Think joggers and a tee over skinny jeans or tight leggings. Comfort wins here.
- Bring a list of any medications — some prescriptions, such as certain antibiotics, can make skin more sensitive to light. It’s always worth letting your practitioner know.
In short, treat it like heading to a yoga class or a spa day. You want to arrive clean, comfy and relaxed so the session feels smooth from start to finish.
Preparing for At-Home IPL Devices
If you are using an at-home IPL device, your laser hair removal prep is very similar to a professional treatment, but there are a few extra steps to keep in mind.
Here’s how to prep for at-home IPL hair removal:
- Always do a patch test — test a small area 24 hours before your first session to check for any reaction. It’s just like trying a new skincare product on your hand before putting it all over your face.
- Shave beforehand — just like in a clinic, the laser works best when the hair follicle is intact, but surface hair is gone.
- Make sure your skin is clean and dry — no moisturisers, deodorants, or fake tan on the day.
- Use protective eyewear — some devices come with built-in safety, but if yours doesn’t, wear proper goggles to protect your eyes.
- Stick to recommended settings — start on the lower energy levels, especially if it’s your first time. You can always increase gradually once you’re comfortable.
Clinic vs At-Home IPL: Key Differences in Prep
Same for Both |
Extra for At-Home IPL |
| Shave 24–48 hrs before | Do a patch test 24 hrs before |
| Avoid waxing/tweezing |
Use protective eyewear if needed |
| Start with clean, dry skin |
Stick to lower settings at first |
| Skip lotions, deodorant, fake tan |
Follow your device’s manual closely |
At-home devices are now designed with safety features that make them easier to use, but they still need the same careful prep as professional treatments. When done right, IPL at home can be a more affordable way to stay on top of hair removal between salon sessions, while still keeping your skin smooth and safe.
Aftercare: What to Do Right After Laser Hair Removal
Once your laser or IPL session is done, the aftercare is just as important as your laser hair removal prep. Your skin might feel a little warm or look slightly red, almost like mild sunburn.
Here’s how to look after your skin after laser hair removal:
- Soothe the skin — apply a cool compress or a light layer of aloe vera gel to calm any redness. It feels a bit like putting aftersun on after a day at the beach.
- Avoid heat and sweat — skip hot showers, saunas and the gym for 24 to 48 hours. Heat can make irritation worse.
- Stay out of the sun — UV exposure is the biggest trigger for sensitivity, so keep covered and use SPF daily.
- Moisturise gently — choose a fragrance-free lotion to keep skin hydrated without irritation.
You may also notice some hair shedding one to two weeks later. This is completely normal and actually a sign that the treatment is working. By keeping your aftercare simple and protective, you’ll help your skin stay calm and set the stage for smooth results over your next sessions.
FAQs About Laser Hair Removal Prep
It’s normal to have questions before your first session. Here are some quick answers to the most common queries about laser hair removal prep:
How should I prep for laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal prep involves a few simple but important steps:
- Shave the treatment area 24–48 hours before your appointment.
- Avoid tanning, sunbeds and fake tan for at least 2 weeks.
- Stop strong skincare like retinol, glycolic or salicylic acid a week before.
- Arrive with clean, dry skin, free from moisturisers, oils or deodorants.
These steps make the laser more effective, reduce irritation and help you get smoother results faster.
What should you avoid before laser hair removal?
Avoid waxing, tweezing, bleaching, fake tan, perfumes, deodorants, and harsh exfoliants. These can remove the hair root or irritate your skin before treatment.
Can I shave 2 days before laser hair removal?
Yes, shaving two days before is fine. The main goal is to remove surface hair while leaving the follicle intact. If your hair grows quickly, shave the night before.
Can I moisturise before laser hair removal?
No, don’t moisturise on the day of treatment. Lotions and oils can act as a barrier and reduce the effectiveness of the laser.
Can I wax before laser hair removal?
No, waxing removes the root that the laser targets. Stick to shaving as your only hair removal method during treatment.
Should I exfoliate before laser hair removal?
Light exfoliation is fine, but avoid harsh scrubs or acids for 48 hours before. Your skin should be calm, not sensitive.
Can I use numbing cream before laser hair removal?
Yes, but check with your clinic or device instructions first. Some creams may interfere with the laser if not used properly.
Can I shave right before my appointment?
Yes, but shaving the night before is best. If you shave on the day, be gentle to avoid irritation.
These laser hair removal prep tips will help your skin stay safe and give you the smoothest results possible.
Final Thoughts on Laser Hair Removal Prep
Getting the best out of your sessions really comes down to proper laser hair removal prep. Shaving at the right time, avoiding sun exposure, keeping your skin clean, and skipping products that make it sensitive are all simple steps that lead to smoother results.
The best prep means fewer side effects, faster progress, and skin that feels calm after each treatment. Whether you’re going to a clinic or using an at-home IPL device, sticking to the basics makes all the difference.
If you’re thinking about trying IPL at home, following these prep tips will help you use your device safely and confidently. With the right approach, laser hair removal becomes less of a chore and more of a routine that gives you long-lasting smoothness.
