Waxing before laser hair removal not recommended

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD answers: Should I wax before laser hair removal treatments?

Have you ever heard of, or have any feedback on laser clinics, waxing a patient immediately before they use the laser? I went to a clinic where they say they do this as the hair follicle is open and more receptive to the laser. Their reasoning for this was because when shaving the area to be lasered, 'baby' hairs that are also shaved now in-turn come back stubbly and thicker. I have done a lot of research and it all says that waxing should be stopped months or so before getting laser treatments. I've had a patch test done (waxing first and the laser IPL) and it's been 2 months and it seems it has worked.

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD
13 months ago
By Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD - Chicago Plastic Surgeon

The hair grows in the three different cycles. In order for the laser to be effective the follicle needs to be in the first anagen, or active stage of growing. When you wax, you remove the follicle or the root of the hair and leave no target for the laser to attract. If you wax, it is better to wait 4-6 weeks for the face areas and 8-10 weeks for the body areas for the hair to return in the right stage again. You can simply shave before and in between the treatments or use any depilatory creams that remove the hair on the surface only.

Like this

Request info from Dr. Turowski

50 words maximum (0 words entered)
Your info is protected by our privacy policy
Back to “Should I wax before laser hair removal treatments?”

Community Discussions

Q&A Forum about "Should I wax before laser hair removal treatments?"
DiscussionReplies

Be the first to start a discussion

Start a new discussion
Email to friend
Permalink

Waxing: 3 reviews

33% said it was worth it

Waxing doctor answers

Start a discussion

Waxing cost near you Waxing cost map



Waxing: was it worth it?
Write a review
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.