Okay to Use Depilatory Creams Before and Inbetween Laser Hair Removal Sessions?

Question

I know waxing, threading and plucking are not allowed, and bleaching is probably not recommended, but can depilatory creams be used instead of shaving?

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

If you use the depilatory cream less than two weeks prior to laser hair removal treatment, there may not be enough pigment in the hair follicle (from loss of the hair shaft) so that energy will not be absorbed where it is needed. This would reduce the efficiency of the treatment.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! It is best to avoid using depilatory creams between laser hair removal treatments. If you need to shave, that is fine. No creams, no plucking, no anything in between are the best ideas. These should have been reviewed with you in detail during your initial consult and reviewed following each session. Best of luck!

Robert Sleightholm, MD · Answer

Depilatory creams, plucking and waxing should be avoided during laser hair removal as the target for the laser is reduced.  Shaving between treatments will not effect the treatment.

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

It is best to avoid using depilatory creams between laser hair removal treatments. If you need to shave, that is fine. No creams, no plucking, no anything in between are the best ideas. These should have been reviewed with you in detail during your initial consult and reviewed following each session.

Alison Stallings, MD · Answer

It is best to avoid depilatory creams (as well as waxing, plucking, threading as mentioned) while you are undergoing laser hair removal.  As stated previously, depilatory creams can dissolve a portion of the hair shaft which may make future laser sessions less beneficial.  It is best to stick with shaving between sessions as necessary.

Okay to Use Depilatory Creams Before and Inbetween Laser Hair Removal Sessions?

Answers (7)

Answer: Avoid Using Depilatory Creams between Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Answer: Avoid Using Depilatory Creams between Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Answer: Avoid depilatory creams during laser hair removal sessions

Answer: Avoid depilatory creams during laser hair removal sessions

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

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Okay to Use Depilatory Creams Before and Inbetween Laser Hair Removal Sessions?

Answers (7)

Answer: Avoid Using Depilatory Creams between Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Answer: Avoid Using Depilatory Creams between Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Answer: Avoid depilatory creams during laser hair removal sessions

Answer: Avoid depilatory creams during laser hair removal sessions

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.