{"id":8624,"date":"2026-11-10T11:18:14","date_gmt":"2026-11-10T11:18:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/?p=8624"},"modified":"2026-11-10T11:18:16","modified_gmt":"2026-11-10T11:18:16","slug":"how-to-prepare-for-laser-hair-removal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/blog\/how-to-prepare-for-laser-hair-removal","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal: Shaving, Sun Exposure and Patch Tests"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/LMA-47-1024x559.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/LMA-47-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/LMA-47-300x164.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/LMA-47-768x419.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/LMA-47.jpg 1100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preparing for laser hair removal involves more than booking an appointment. You may need to adjust your hair removal routine and avoid sun exposure. At LMA Clinic, you&#8217;ll also have a patch test before your first treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re new to laser hair removal, you might be unsure about shaving, waxing or what happens during a patch test. Following the right preparation advice can help you reduce avoidable skin reactions and get the most from your treatment. Your clinic will also provide specific guidance based on your skin, treatment area and laser system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why Is Preparation Important Before Laser Hair Removal?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target pigment in your hair, producing heat that damages the structures responsible for hair growth. Your skin&#8217;s condition also matters, as recent tanning, irritation or certain skincare products may increase the risk of unwanted reactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preparing properly helps ensure your hair remains suitable for treatment and protects your skin. Your practitioner will also need to know your medical history, medicines and previous skin treatments to assess whether laser hair removal is appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What Happens During Your Laser Hair Removal Consultation?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your consultation allows your practitioner to assess your skin, hair type and treatment goals. You&#8217;ll also discuss your medical history, medicines and previous skin treatments so they can decide whether laser hair removal is suitable for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your practitioner will explain the possible side effects, suitable laser settings and expected number of sessions. They&#8217;ll also discuss how your hair may respond, although your final results cannot be guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How Early Should You Start Preparing for Laser Hair Removal?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should start preparing several weeks before your appointment, particularly if you regularly wax, pluck or use tanning products. Many clinics recommend avoiding waxing and plucking for at least four weeks, while recent tanning may mean you need to delay treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should also review your skincare routine, especially if you use retinoids, exfoliating acids or prescription products. Ask your clinic for written instructions so you know when to adjust your routine and how to protect your skin before treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Laser Hair Removal Preparation: What to Do and What to Avoid<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Preparation Step<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why It Matters<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Recommended Approach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Shaving<\/td><td>Leaves pigmented hair within the follicle for the laser to target<\/td><td>Follow your clinic&#8217;s shaving instructions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Waxing, plucking or threading<\/td><td>Removes hair from the root<\/td><td>Avoid for the clinic&#8217;s recommended period<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sunbeds and tanning<\/td><td>Increase treatment risks or interfere with skin assessment<\/td><td>Avoid tanning and disclose recent exposure<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Retinoids and exfoliating acids<\/td><td>May leave your skin more sensitive<\/td><td>Ask whether a temporary pause is needed<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Medicines and previous skin reactions<\/td><td>May affect treatment suitability<\/td><td>Disclose them during your consultation<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Should You Shave Before Laser Hair Removal?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074023.514-1024x559.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8632\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074023.514-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074023.514-300x164.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074023.514-768x419.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074023.514.jpg 1100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shaving is generally preferred before laser hair removal because it removes visible hair without disturbing the follicles the laser needs to target. However, timing varies between clinics. LMA Clinic advises leaving approximately three days of stubble, so check your practitioner&#8217;s instructions before shaving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re asked to shave, use a clean razor and avoid causing cuts or irritation, particularly around sensitive areas. You don&#8217;t need perfectly smooth skin; keeping your skin comfortable and suitable for treatment is more important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why Should You Avoid Waxing, Plucking and Threading Before Treatment?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waxing, plucking and threading remove hair from its follicles, leaving less pigmented hair for the laser to target. If you&#8217;ve recently used these methods, your practitioner may recommend delaying treatment until enough hair has regrown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">LMA Clinic advises avoiding waxing and threading for six weeks before treatment. You should also avoid plucking during your treatment course unless your practitioner advises otherwise. If you&#8217;ve accidentally waxed or plucked the area, let your practitioner know so they can decide whether your appointment should go ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Evidence Note<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waxing, plucking and threading remove hair from its root, reducing the pigmented hair available for laser treatment. Bleaching can make hair harder to target, while depilatory creams may irritate your skin. These methods can require different preparation periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">LMA Clinic advises avoiding waxing, threading and hair removal creams for six weeks before treatment. Ask your practitioner about plucking, bleaching or other products you use, and follow your clinic&#8217;s specific instructions rather than a general timetable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Can You Use Hair Removal Creams or Bleach Before Laser Hair Removal?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hair removal creams dissolve visible hair but can irritate your skin before laser treatment. LMA Clinic advises avoiding these creams for six weeks, although recommendations vary between clinics. You should follow your practitioner&#8217;s specific instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bleaching can also make your hair less suitable for laser treatment because the laser targets pigment. If you regularly bleach your facial or body hair, ask your practitioner when you should stop before starting treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How Does Sun Exposure Affect Laser Hair Removal?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sun exposure can increase pigmentation in your skin, making it more sensitive to laser energy. This may increase your risk of burns or unwanted skin colour changes, particularly if you&#8217;ve recently developed a tan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should avoid intentional tanning and tell your practitioner if you&#8217;ve been exposed to strong sunlight. Avoid treatment over sunburned skin and continue protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure throughout your course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Should You Avoid Sunbeds and Fake Tan Before Your Appointment?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should avoid sunbeds before laser hair removal because UV exposure can increase skin pigmentation and treatment risks. Fake tan can also affect how your practitioner assesses your natural skin tone, so your clinic may ask you to stop using it in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;ve recently applied fake tan, don&#8217;t scrub your skin aggressively to remove it. Contact your practitioner and explain when you used it so they can advise whether you need to delay your appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How Can You Protect Your Skin From the Sun Before Treatment?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure can help keep it suitable for laser treatment. Your clinic may also give you specific instructions before your appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Use sunscreen:<\/strong> Apply SPF 30 or higher with at least four-star UVA protection to exposed skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Wear protective clothing:<\/strong> Cover treated areas with suitable clothing where possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Choose shade:<\/strong> Limit prolonged sun exposure, particularly around midday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Follow treatment-day advice:<\/strong> Remove sunscreen or other products if your clinic asks you to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consistent sun protection can help reduce unnecessary skin sensitivity before your laser hair removal session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What Is a Patch Test Before Laser Hair Removal?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074046.899-1024x559.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8633\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074046.899-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074046.899-300x164.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074046.899-768x419.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/JFAM-2026-11-10T074046.899.jpg 1100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A patch test involves treating a small area of your skin before your full laser hair removal session. Your practitioner uses suitable laser settings to check how your skin responds and whether any immediate redness or swelling develops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may feel a brief warming or snapping sensation during the test. Although a satisfactory result is reassuring, it doesn&#8217;t guarantee you&#8217;ll never experience a reaction during later sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How Long Should You Wait After a Laser Hair Removal Patch Test?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may be asked to wait 24 to 72 hours or longer after a patch test so your practitioner can assess delayed skin reactions. LMA Clinic generally arranges patch testing around one week before treatment, so follow the timing provided at your consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During this time, monitor your skin for unusual redness, blistering or persistent discomfort. If you notice any unexpected reaction, contact your practitioner before proceeding with your full treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Research Insight<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A 2023 review published in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery examined 104 publications reporting complications associated with laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removal. Researchers identified reactions including burns, pigmentation changes, folliculitis and eye injuries. Reported complications were associated with factors such as skin type, treatment area, device and treatment settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, this review brought together published reports and studies rather than measuring the overall risk in everyone receiving treatment. It cannot tell you your individual likelihood of experiencing a complication or prove that a successful patch test prevents later reactions. These findings highlight why skin assessment, appropriate settings, protective eyewear and careful monitoring remain important throughout your treatment course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which Skincare Products Should You Avoid Before Laser Hair Removal?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may need to adjust your skincare routine before laser hair removal, particularly if you use retinol, glycolic acid or salicylic acid. Ask your practitioner whether you should pause these products, as the timing depends on their strength and your skin&#8217;s sensitivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid harsh scrubs and aggressive exfoliation that could irritate your skin. Tell your practitioner about recent chemical peels or microneedling, and arrive with clean skin free from make-up, lotions and oils.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What Medicines and Medical Conditions Should You Mention Before Treatment?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell your practitioner about all medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter treatments, as some can increase your skin&#8217;s sensitivity to light. You should also mention any skin infections, cold sores, unusual scarring, keloids, tattoos or permanent make-up in the treatment area. Hair-removal lasers should not be applied directly over tattoos or permanent make-up, as the pigment can absorb laser energy and increase the risk of burns or skin damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re taking oral isotretinoin, NHS advice is to avoid laser hair removal during treatment. If you&#8217;ve recently finished taking it, ask your prescriber and laser practitioner when treatment may be suitable. You should also tell your practitioner if you&#8217;re pregnant or breastfeeding, as treatment may need to be postponed or assessed individually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Clinical Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before your consultation, make a list of your current medicines, skincare products and any previous reactions to cosmetic treatments. If you&#8217;ve had laser treatment before, mention whether you experienced burns, blistering, unusual redness or changes in skin pigmentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should also tell your practitioner if your medical circumstances change between your consultation and treatment appointment. For example, a new prescription, recent sunburn or active skin infection may mean your skin needs reassessing. Don&#8217;t stop prescribed medicines without speaking to the clinician responsible for your treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Does Laser Hair Removal Preparation Differ for Different Body Areas?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your preparation may vary depending on the area being treated. For facial laser hair removal, you may need to avoid certain skincare products and arrive without make-up. For underarms, your clinic may ask you to avoid deodorant on the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bikini-area treatment requires extra care when shaving because your skin is more sensitive. For larger areas such as your legs, protect your skin from tanning. Your practitioner should also consider your skin tone when choosing suitable laser settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What Should You Do on the Day of Your Laser Hair Removal Appointment?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Arrive with clean, comfortable skin and follow your practitioner&#8217;s shaving instructions. Avoid applying make-up, perfume, moisturiser, oils or deodorant to the treatment area. Wear loose clothing to reduce friction afterwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your practitioner will provide protective eyewear and explain what to expect during treatment. You may feel warmth or a brief snapping sensation, but let them know if you experience excessive discomfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>UK Guidance Note<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the UK, choose a cosmetic laser practitioner with appropriate training, experience and insurance. Before treatment, you should receive an explanation of the expected results, potential complications, costs, aftercare and whom to contact if you experience an unexpected reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Informed consent should include a discussion of risks, alternatives and realistic outcomes. Preparation schedules vary between laser systems and treatment areas, so your clinic should provide instructions suited to your skin type, medical history and the equipment being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What Happens If You Haven&#8217;t Followed the Preparation Instructions?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"328\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-8.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7937\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-8.jpeg 602w, https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-8-300x163.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;ve missed a preparation step, contact your clinic before your appointment. Recent waxing, tanning, sunburn or skin irritation may mean you need to postpone treatment to avoid unnecessary reactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Continue following your clinic&#8217;s advice between sessions, including avoiding waxing and protecting your skin from the sun. After treatment, report blistering, significant pain or persistent skin colour changes to your practitioner promptly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Myth vs Fact<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Myth<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Fact<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>You should wax before laser hair removal.<\/td><td>Waxing removes hair from the root and can interfere with treatment.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Everyone must shave exactly one day before treatment.<\/td><td>Shaving instructions vary between clinics and laser systems.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fake tan is harmless before laser treatment.<\/td><td>It can affect skin assessment and may require postponement.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>A successful patch test guarantees there won&#8217;t be side effects.<\/td><td>Later treatment can still cause unexpected reactions.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>You don&#8217;t need to mention medicines if your skin looks healthy.<\/td><td>Medicines and medical history can affect treatment suitability.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1. Start preparing for laser hair removal before your first appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2. Avoid waxing, plucking and threading according to your clinic&#8217;s instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">3. Follow your practitioner&#8217;s shaving advice rather than a universal timetable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">4. Avoid tanning and postpone treatment if your skin is sunburnt or irritated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">5. Attend your consultation and patch test before full treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">6. Tell your practitioner about medicines, skin conditions and previous reactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. How early should you start preparing for laser hair removal?<\/strong><br>You should begin preparing several weeks before your appointment, particularly if you regularly wax, pluck or use tanning products. Review your skincare routine and ask your clinic for specific preparation instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Should you shave before laser hair removal?<\/strong><br>Shaving is generally preferred because it removes visible hair without disturbing the follicles the laser needs to target. LMA Clinic advises leaving approximately three days of stubble, so check your practitioner&#8217;s instructions before shaving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. How long before laser hair removal should you stop waxing or plucking?<\/strong><br>LMA Clinic advises avoiding waxing and threading for six weeks before treatment. Ask your practitioner when to stop plucking, as these methods remove hair from the root and can interfere with treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Can you use hair removal creams before laser treatment?<\/strong><br>Hair removal creams can irritate your skin, so LMA Clinic advises avoiding them for six weeks before treatment. Recommendations may vary, so follow your practitioner&#8217;s specific guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. Why should you avoid sun exposure before laser hair removal?<br><\/strong>Sun exposure and tanning can increase skin pigmentation and sensitivity to laser energy, raising the risk of burns or colour changes. Protect exposed skin with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and avoid intentional tanning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. Can you have laser hair removal after using fake tan?<\/strong><br>Fake tan can affect how your practitioner assesses your natural skin tone, so your appointment may need to be delayed. Contact your clinic rather than scrubbing your skin aggressively to remove the tan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. What is a patch test before laser hair removal?<\/strong><br>A patch test involves treating a small area of skin with suitable laser settings to check how it responds. It helps your practitioner identify possible reactions, although it cannot guarantee that you won&#8217;t experience side effects during later sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>8. How long should you wait after a laser hair removal patch test?<\/strong><br>You may be asked to wait 24 to 72 hours or longer so your practitioner can check for delayed reactions. LMA Clinic generally arranges patch testing around one week before treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. Which skincare products should you avoid before laser hair removal?<\/strong><br>You may need to pause retinol, glycolic acid and salicylic acid, depending on your skin sensitivity and your practitioner&#8217;s advice. Avoid harsh scrubs and aggressive exfoliation, and tell your practitioner about recent chemical peels or microneedling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>10. What should you do on the day of your laser hair removal appointment?<\/strong><br>Arrive with clean skin and follow your clinic&#8217;s shaving instructions. Avoid applying make-up, perfume, moisturiser, oils or deodorant to the treatment area, and wear loose clothing to reduce friction afterwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Final Thoughts: How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preparing for laser hair removal involves protecting your skin from sun exposure, avoiding waxing and plucking, and following your clinic&#8217;s shaving and patch-testing instructions. Sharing details about your skincare products, medications and recent treatments also helps your practitioner assess whether your skin is ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/laser-hair-removal\">If you&#8217;re thinking about getting laser hair removal in London<\/a>, you can speak with the team at London Medical &amp; Aesthetic Clinic about how to prepare and what to expect before your first session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>References:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1. Mallat, F., Chaaya, C., Aoun, M., Soutou, B. and Helou, J. (2023) \u2018Adverse Events of Light-Assisted Hair Removal: An Updated Review\u2019, <em>Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery<\/em>, 27(4), pp. 375\u2013387. Available at: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37272371\/\">https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37272371\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2. Casey, A.S. and Goldberg, D.J. (2008) \u2018Guidelines for laser hair removal\u2019, <em>Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy<\/em>, 10(1), pp. 24\u201333. Available at: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/18330795\/\">https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/18330795\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">3. Mysore, V. et al. (2024) \u2018Standard operating protocol for utilizing energy-based devices in aesthetic practice\u2019, <em>Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology<\/em>, 23(12), pp. 3809\u20133820. Available at: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC11626368\/\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC11626368\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">4. Husain, Z. and Alster, T.S. (2016) \u2018The role of lasers and intense pulsed light technology in dermatology\u2019, <em>Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology<\/em>, 9, pp. 29\u201340. Available at: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4745852\/\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4745852\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">5. Gold, M.H. (2007) \u2018Lasers and light sources for the removal of unwanted hair\u2019, <em>Clinics in Dermatology<\/em>, 25(5), pp. 443\u2013453. Available at: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0738081X07000983\">https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0738081X07000983<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Preparing for laser hair removal involves more than booking an appointment. You may need to adjust your hair removal routine and avoid sun exposure. At LMA Clinic, you&#8217;ll also have a patch test before your first treatment. If you&#8217;re new to laser hair removal, you might be unsure about shaving, waxing or what happens during&hellip; <a class=\"more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lmaclinic.com\/lma\/blog\/how-to-prepare-for-laser-hair-removal\">Read more&#8230; <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal: Shaving, Sun Exposure and Patch Tests<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8631,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8624","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","entry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to prepare for laser hair removal, including shaving, sun 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