Essential Guide to Shaving Before Laser Hair Removal
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Who This is For:
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Laser hair removal is a trusted solution for those looking to reduce unwanted hair with long-lasting results. But showing up unprepared, especially without shaving, can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, and poor results.
At Simplicity Laser, we’ve performed over 8 million treatments on more than 250,000 clients. Using industry-leading laser technology, we help people achieve smoother, more confident skin through precision treatments and expert guidance, starting with how and when to shave before laser hair removal
Why You’re Told to Shave Before Laser Hair Removal
Here’s the science: laser energy targets hair follicles below the skin’s surface, not the visible hair above it. When hair is left unshaved, the laser burns through the surface hair first. This causes unnecessary burning, discomfort, and makes the laser less effective at reaching the follicle. In short, it compromises the entire laser hair removal treatment.
Shaving before laser hair removal ensures a safe and effective laser hair removal procedure. It removes surface hair while keeping the follicle intact, exactly what the laser needs to hit.
This is also why waxing and plucking can affect the viability of a treatment. Those methods remove the hair follicle, which gives the laser nothing to target.
For optimal results, shaving is the only prep step that gets all the hair where it should be: below the surface.
When and How to Shave Before Your Appointment
Preparing correctly for your appointment can greatly improve the effectiveness of your laser treatment.
First and foremost, timing matters. Shaving 12 to 24 hours before your laser hair removal appointment ensures that the hair is still visible within the follicle but remains below the skin’s surface. This allows the laser to effectively target the pigment in the follicle without interference from surface hair, which can cause burning or reduce the treatment’s efficacy.
Why not right before? Shaving too close to your session increases the risk of skin irritation and might make hair pigment less visible to the laser. Waiting 12–24 hours gives just enough regrowth for the laser to detect, especially for dark hair.
General Shaving Guidelines
In general, here’s how to do it right:
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Use a clean, sharp razor for a closer shave.
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Apply shaving cream or gel generously to protect the skin’s surface.
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Use short strokes with the grain to reduce friction and irritation.
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Rinse with cold water or a warm shower after shaving to soothe the skin.
Area-Specific Shaving Tips
Each part of the body may require a slightly different approach. Shaving techniques should match the area you’re treating for best results:
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Face: Use a gentle facial razor designed for delicate areas. Avoid shaving over the eyebrows, as the laser is not safe near the eyes. Be especially careful around your upper lip and chin, where the skin can be sensitive.
Legs and Arms: These areas typically allow for easier access. Use short strokes and shaving cream to cover larger areas smoothly and evenly. -
Bikini Line: Go slowly and use plenty of shaving gel! The bikini area is more prone to irritation and ingrown hairs, so avoid going over the same spot multiple times. And never dry shave.
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Back and Chest (Men): These areas often have coarser hair and more surface area. Use a mirror or ask for assistance to ensure a closer shave and reduce missed patches. Smooth skin here helps the laser reach the hair follicles more efficiently.
Whatever the area, proper practices before laser hair removal improve results and keep your skin out of irritation’s way.
5 Additional Beneficial Ways to Prepare for Your Laser Hair Removal Appointment
Shaving is step one, but a safe and effective laser hair removal treatment requires a few more important preparations. These extra steps help protect your skin, maximize the effectiveness of the laser, and reduce your risk of irritation or complications during and after your session.
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Avoid waxing, plucking, or bleaching for at least three weeks before your hair removal treatment.
Laser energy targets the pigment inside active hair follicles. Waxing and plucking physically remove the follicle, while bleaching strips away the pigment, leaving the laser with nothing to target. These methods also disrupt the growth cycle, which can interfere with consistent treatment results.
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Keep the treatment area clean and product-free.
Avoid applying lotions, deodorants, makeup, or numbing creams before your appointment. These products can create a barrier on the skin’s surface, causing the laser energy to reflect or scatter rather than penetrate effectively. They also increase the risk of contact dermatitis, burning, or skin irritation during treatment.
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Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for 2–3 weeks before treatment.
Tanned or sunburned skin increases your risk of sensitivity, burns, and hyperpigmentation during laser treatment, especially for those with darker skin or little contrast between skin color and hair color. Staying out of the sun helps your skin stay calm, even-toned, and ready to respond well to the laser energy.
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Share your medical history and current medications with your technician.
Some medications increase photosensitivity and can make your skin more reactive to light energy, raising the risk of side effects. Let your technician know about any prescriptions, supplements, or skin conditions to determine if any precautions or are necessary for your laser hair removal procedure. At Simplicity Laser, our experienced medical staff can help you with any adjustments.
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Wear loose, breathable clothing to your appointment.
After treatment, the affected area may feel warm or sensitive. Tight clothing can cause friction, trap heat, or irritate the skin, sometimes causing ingrown hairs. Opting for loose layers can help your skin breathe, allowing you to recover comfortably.
Taking the time to prepare properly allows you to get the most out of every appointment. Every small step you take before your laser hair removal appointment makes a big difference in safety, effectiveness, and your overall experience.
Aftercare: Protecting Skin Post-Treatment
Proper aftercare is just as important as pre-treatment prep. Following your laser hair removal treatment, your skin may feel sensitive, warm, or slightly swollen, similar to a mild sunburn. This is completely normal and typically subsides within 24 to 72 hours, but taking the right steps can help your skin recover and prepare for future sessions.
Use Soothing Products to Calm the Skin
After your appointment, apply a gentle soothing agent like aloe vera, cold compresses, or Simplicity’s Restorative Gel. These help reduce redness, cool the affected area, and promote faster healing.
Avoid Sun Exposure and Tanning Beds for 2 Weeks
Freshly treated skin is more vulnerable to UV damage, which can lead to hyperpigmentation, burning, or increased irritation. Stay out of direct sunlight, and absolutely skip tanning beds during this recovery window.
Continue Wearing Loose, Breathable Clothing
Tight clothing can rub against the treated skin, trap heat, and cause friction-related irritation. Choose soft, loose-fitting garments that allow the skin to breathe and heal without disruption.
Apply Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Daily
Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ zinc oxide sunscreen on exposed areas—even on cloudy days. This protects your skin’s surface from UV rays and reduces the risk of developing dark spots or post-treatment skin discoloration.
Don’t Wax or Pluck Between Sessions
Stick to shaving only between appointments. Waxing or plucking removes the entire hair follicle, making it impossible for the laser to target it during your next session. Shave frequently if needed to manage regrowth while keeping follicles intact.
With the right aftercare, your laser hair removal results will continue to improve over time and your skin will stay healthy, comfortable, and ready for your next appointment.
Skip the Shaving Long Term with Simplicity Laser
Prepping the right way before laser hair removal sets the stage for smoother skin and more effective treatment. At Simplicity Laser, we’ve built our reputation on results that last. With state-of-the-art laser technology, compassionate care, and expert aftercare guidance, we’re here to make your hair removal journey easy and effective.
Join the 250,000+ clients who trust Simplicity Laser to deliver laser hair removal that works. Book your consultation today and discover how smooth, confident skin is just a few treatments away.
