When should I shave after my first treatment? Is it advisable to wait for the hair to grow back, shed, and then shave? (photo)

Question

I had my first laser session 6 days ago and I saw the hair grow back the next day. The laser used on myself is the Soprano ICE The hair is growing back like it used to when can I get roughly expect it to shed ?? So this is my upper lip I have also got a bit of pigmentation from shaving it almost looks green it’s Making me question wether to continue with laser and revert back to threading it’s like a man’s stubble .

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You can shave between sessions and it's advised to shave either the night before or day of treatment. Hyperpigmentation can be improved with a combination of Cosmelan, lasers, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Joyce Davis, MD · Answer

Many lasers treat both pigmentation and excess hair.  The Diode lasers and IPL machines are useful for both.  You can also use a topical bleaching agent (the stronger ones are by prescription -ask your doctor to call one in for you) during treatment.  Sunblock is essential to prevent the pigmentation from darkening; especially during the summer months.  Buy a maximum strength product.  Some of the tinted ones may even hide the discoloration.Shaving should not cause pigmentation and to prevent irritation, use shaving cream or gel prior.  Shaving can be done whenever necessary.

Gary Nackman, MD, FACS · Answer

I don't think it really matters when you shave after laser hair removal. It won't effect the results or the next treatment. If the area is sore, don't shave. Shaving should not cause pigment changes. It is possible to have hyperpigmentation post laser, and it usually resolves. You should discuss with your doctor.

Jayanthy Ravindran, MS, DNB, MRCS · Answer

Hey there,Post laser hair removal hairs in the growth phase are expected to shed in the first 7-14 days.  Shaving is generally advised  only after 2 weeks of laser. If its too difficult for u to handle then can be done after 1 week.  It will take minimum  3-4 sessions for the coarse hairs to become thin. So you can go ahead  with laser hair removal without a second thought. Green discolouration is because of reflection of light by the blunt ends of the shaved  dark hairs in lighter skin tone.Hope this helps.

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photo. Laser hair removal works best on hair that is in the anagen or growth phase. During the phase, hair follicles have more pigment than at other times, making them more susceptible to laser energy. At any given time, almost 90% of your hair is in this phase but because not all of your hair is in this phase at once, it requires several treatments to achieve maximum results. You are welcome to shave in between sessions but please refrain from waxing or depilatory creams. On average, three to five sessions are necessary to achieve maximum results, after which you should experience several months of almost complete hairlessness. Overall, you can expect an 85% permanent reduction of hair in the treated area. I recommend getting a in person consultation with a board-certified dermatologist.

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

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