Laser Hair Removal Treatment: How to Prepare for a Successful Session
Thinking about a laser hair removal treatment? You are not alone. Across the UK, more and more people are turning to it as a reliable way to achieve smoother skin without the constant cycle of shaving or waxing. Whether you plan to book sessions at a professional clinic or try an at-home IPL device such as Ulike, the way you prepare can make a big difference to both your comfort and your results.
So why does preparation matter? Laser and IPL treatments work by targeting the pigment in your hair follicles. They are most effective when your skin is clean, free of surface hair and has not been recently exposed to the sun. For example, shaving a day before treatment allows the light to focus directly on the follicle instead of being absorbed by stubble. Avoiding sun exposure for a few weeks beforehand also helps reduce the risk of irritation or uneven pigmentation.
In this guide, we will walk you through practical tips to prepare for your first or next session. From the best time to shave to which skincare products to pause, these steps can help you feel more confident and comfortable. Whether you are in a London clinic chair or using a device like Ulike at home, the right preparation sets you up for smoother, longer-lasting results.
Why Proper Preparation Matters
Laser hair removal treatment is not just about turning up to your appointment or switching on an IPL device. The results you get are closely tied to how well you prepare beforehand. Taking the right steps ensures the laser can effectively target your hair follicles, which leads to smoother skin and longer-lasting results.
Preparation also helps avoid common setbacks. For instance, if the skin has been recently tanned, there is a higher risk of burns or uneven pigmentation. If the area has been waxed or plucked, the hair follicle may not be present for the laser to target, making the session far less effective. Even something as simple as shaving too close to the appointment can leave the skin irritated, which makes the treatment uncomfortable.
By preparing properly, you give the laser the best chance to work with your natural hair growth cycle. This means fewer side effects such as redness, bumps, or patchy results, and more confidence in each session you complete. Whether you are choosing professional treatments or at-home IPL, the groundwork you do beforehand is just as important as the treatment itself.
10 Essential Tips for Preparing for Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Getting the most out of your laser hair removal treatment depends on how you prepare in the days and weeks before each session. These ten tips will help you set the stage for smooth, safe, and effective results.
1. Shave the Area 24–48 Hours Before Treatment
Shaving keeps the hair follicle intact while removing hair above the skin. This allows the laser to target the root effectively. Use a clean, sharp razor to avoid nicks or irritation.
2. Avoid Waxing, Plucking, or Threading
These methods remove hair from the root, which is exactly what the laser needs to target. Stick to shaving only in the weeks leading up to treatment.
3. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Tanned or sunburned skin can increase the risk of burns or pigmentation issues. Try to avoid direct sun exposure for at least four weeks before your session and always apply a high SPF sunscreen if you’re outdoors.
4. Skip Harsh Skincare Products
In the three to five days before your treatment, avoid exfoliants, retinoids, or products with strong acids. These can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.
5. Keep the Skin Clean and Free of Lotions
On the day of your treatment, make sure the area is freshly washed and free of creams, oils, deodorants, or makeup. Products left on the skin can block the laser or cause irritation.
6. Don’t Shave Immediately Before the Appointment
It’s best to shave at least 24 hours before. Shaving on the same day can leave the skin more vulnerable to sensitivity or small surface burns.
7. Stay Hydrated
Healthy, hydrated skin responds better to treatment and heals faster. Drink plenty of water in the days before your session to keep your skin in optimal condition.
8. Be Ready for Mild Sensitivity Afterwards
It’s normal to experience redness, small bumps, or slight sensitivity after a session. Keep aloe vera gel or a cool compress on hand to calm the skin if needed.
9. Follow the Aftercare Instructions Carefully
Post-treatment care is just as important as preparation. Moisturise gently, avoid heat (like saunas), and protect the treated area from sun exposure to maintain your results.
10. Book a Consultation or Do a Patch Test
If you’re new to laser treatments or using an at-home IPL device, a patch test helps ensure your skin reacts well and allows for the correct settings to be used. This step is especially important for darker or more sensitive skin tones.
What to Avoid Before Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Along with the steps you should take, there are a few things best left out of your routine before each session. Think of this as a quick checklist to protect your skin and maximise results:
No tanning or sunbeds in the four weeks before treatment.
No waxing, plucking, or threading — stick to shaving only.
No bleaching hair in the treatment area.
No harsh skincare products (retinoids, glycolic acids, strong exfoliants) for at least three days before.
No creams, oils, deodorants, or makeup on the skin on treatment day.
Keeping these out of the picture ensures the laser can focus on what it does best: targeting the follicle for smoother, longer-lasting results.
What to Expect During Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment Session
If it’s your first time, it’s normal to feel a little nervous about laser hair removal treatment. The good news is that the process is straightforward and most people find it far less uncomfortable than they imagined.
Here’s what usually happens:
Preparation – The area is cleaned, and you’ll be given protective eyewear.
Laser application – Short pulses of light are delivered to the skin. The laser targets the hair follicles without harming the surrounding skin.
Sensation – Many describe it as a quick snap, like a light elastic band flick. Some areas (like the bikini line) may feel more sensitive, while others (such as the legs) are surprisingly easy to tolerate.
Session length – Smaller areas like the underarms can take just a few minutes, while larger zones such as the legs may take 30 minutes or more.
If you’re using an at-home IPL device, the steps are similar. Devices like Ulike are designed with built-in safety sensors so the light only flashes when the handset is in full contact with the skin. You control the pace, which means you can take breaks or adjust the intensity if needed.
Most importantly, any mild warmth or tingling you feel usually fades quickly after the session. The treatment is designed to be safe, effective, and manageable for everyday use.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment Aftercare Tips for Smooth Results
What you do after each laser hair removal treatment is just as important as how you prepare. Good aftercare helps your skin recover quickly and protects your results.
Here are some simple steps to follow:
Soothe the skin – Mild redness or bumps are common and usually settle within a few hours. Applying aloe vera gel or a cool compress can help calm the area.
Avoid heat – Skip hot showers, saunas, and intense workouts for at least 24 hours. Heat can irritate freshly treated skin.
Moisturise gently – Use a fragrance-free, lightweight moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated without causing irritation.
Protect from the sun – Your skin may be more sensitive, so use a high SPF sunscreen if the treated area is exposed. Avoid tanning until your course of sessions is complete.
Don’t pick or scratch – If hair sheds naturally in the days after treatment, let it fall out on its own. Picking can irritate the skin.
Stick to your schedule – For lasting smoothness, follow the treatment plan recommended by your practitioner or device instructions. Be consistent.
With the right aftercare, most people find their skin feels smoother and calmer after each session, with less irritation than other hair removal methods.
FAQs About Laser Hair Removal Treatment
How many sessions are needed for laser hair removal treatment?
Results usually appear after 4 to 6 sessions, depending on your hair type and growth cycle. Because not all hairs grow at once, multiple treatments are required. Sticking to your schedule is the best way to achieve smoother, longer-lasting results.
Does laser hair removal treatment hurt?
Most people describe it as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. The sensation feels like a quick snap on the skin, and any warmth fades within minutes. Compared to waxing or threading, laser hair removal treatment is generally far easier to tolerate.
Is laser hair removal treatment safe for all skin types?
Yes, newer technologies are designed to treat a wide range of skin tones safely. Choosing the correct settings or device for your skin is key. Always follow professional guidance or device instructions for the safest and most effective results.
Can I do laser hair removal at home?
Yes. At-home IPL devices like Ulike are designed for safe, convenient use. They feature built-in sensors and multiple intensity settings, allowing you to customise treatments while reducing unwanted hair over time. With consistency, results can be similar to salon treatments.
Does hair removal cream last longer than shaving?
Hair removal creams dissolve hair just below the surface, so results usually last a few days longer than shaving. However, hair grows back within a week for most people. Unlike laser, creams only offer temporary smoothness and don’t reduce long-term regrowth.
How permanent is hair removal cream?
Hair removal cream is not permanent. It removes hair from just below the skin’s surface, but follicles remain active, so regrowth happens quickly. For longer-lasting results, laser hair removal treatment is a better option as it targets the follicle directly.
How long does hair removal cream keep you smooth?
Hair removal cream typically keeps skin smooth for three to seven days, depending on your hair type and growth rate. Regrowth is softer than with shaving, but still much faster than results from laser hair removal, which can last weeks or longer after a full course.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hair removal method can feel overwhelming when you want convenience, comfort, and long-term results. Shaving and creams only keep skin smooth for a short time, and regrowth starts quickly. Laser hair removal treatment gives you a way to stay smoother for longer without relying on daily or weekly routines.
If you want more time between laser hair removal treatment sessions or simply want to feel confident without constant upkeep, laser hair removal treatment can make a lasting difference. If you prefer to stay at home, modern IPL devices provide a practical alternative and offer many of the same long-term benefits without clinic visits.
