Can I have some stubble before laser hair removal?

Question

I was wondering before a laser hair treatment if there could be some stubble thats already growing from priors shave? My legs hair grows pretty fast and even though i shaved at 11am yesterday and some stubble already is growing and its 8am and i see you can shave 24 hours before appt and right before appt but if i do, do it for like 12 or 24 hours before would it be ok to have some stubble? my skin is still kind of smooth but i obviously still fill stubble growing. i just want the best results

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It is actually recommended to shave either the night before or the day of treatment. Keep in mind, it will take a series of treatments. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Leslie Pickens, MD · Answer

The less hair growth you have above the surface of the skin, the less likely you are to experience burns on top of the skin.  This is particularly important for those with darker skin, which can undergo pigment changes after burns or inflammation that have a lengthy resolution time.

Kent Holtorf, MD · Answer

It is recommmended to shave the day of treatment so stubble is at a minimum.  The longer the stubble the more likely the hair will burn and scar the skin.  Some providers will not treat if the hair is too long, some will shave it before treatment.  I would ask your provider what they would like from you.

Michelle Ellern, DO · Answer

I would recommend having as little hair as possible.  However, the amount of stubble after a few hours is likely insignificant. The issue is when there is so much stubble that it is transferring a significant amount of heat to the surface of your skin.  Good luck with your treatments.

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The less stubble present the better. The laser targets the pigment in the hair follicle. If there is a significant degree of stubble on the surface of the skin, this can create a heat sink that increases pain and raises the risk of a burn. A very slight stubble should not be a significant concern especially if the follicles are very fine.I hope this was helpful - Dr. Moore.

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