Can I shave in between the two laser hair removal appointments for 6 weeks long? Or only the first two weeks?

Question

My technician said that I can only shave the first 2 weeks after the laser hair removal appointment. But the hair still grows so can I still shave until my next appointment which is after 4 weeks?

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Shaving between laser hair appointments is fine, however you should avoid tweezing, waxing, threading or anything else that would pluck out the hairs. The reason behind this is that you need to keep the hair follicle intact so that the laser hair removal can work and be efficient.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, I actually recommend that patients shave before every treatment, you can also shave after as well. There may not be anything to shave for up to two weeks after the treatment but shaving is completely fine. I hope this was helpful. Best, Dr. Emer

Nicole Hayre, MD · Answer

Prior to receiving a laser hair removal treatment, it is not recommended to wax or pluck the hairs. In order for laser hair removal to be effective, the laser needs a hair follicle to target. Shaving is the best way to treat your hair prior to a laser hair removal treatment because the hair follicle remains intact.  You can shave as frequently as is necessary in between laser hair removal appointments.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  You service provider obviously did not give you post-care instructions.  First, it will take a series of treatments to reduce your hair production.  LHR treatments deliver a burst of energy to the hair follicles that are actively growing.  The energy destroys these follicles ability to produce another hair.  The hair shafts in those follicles will release and fall out over the next 1-3 weeks.  Other dormant hair follicles start producing hair every day.  It takes a series of at least 6 treatments to get most the hair growth.  In order to avoid surface burns, we have our patients shave before LHR treatments.  You must not wax or pluck during LHR treatments.  You can shave at any time you wish between treatments.Generally speaking, you should look for a facility where they have a doctor on staff and is usually there to answer questions.  Find out what type of machine (laser vs. IPL) they will be using.  A properly calibrated laser is usually much more comfortable than an IPL.  Using the correct settings for your skin type also makes it more comfortable.  Sorry to say, probably the most expensive treatment is probably the best.Best of luck

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

You can shave the hair between laser hair removal sessions.  We usually recommend that the patient shave 2-3 days before so that the skin will not be irritated.  You should not wax or pluck the hairs as the hair needs to remain in the hair follicle in order for the laser treatment to be effective.

Can I shave in between the two laser hair removal appointments for 6 weeks long? Or only the first two weeks?

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