Using Hair Removal Creams Prior to Laser Treatments

Using Hair Removal Creams Before Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Laser hair removal provides long-lasting hair reduction for most people. But shaving before each laser session is necessary. What about using depilatory hair removal creams like Nair instead? Let's explore the safety and effectiveness of hair removal creams prior to laser treatment.

Understanding Laser Hair Removal

Laser machines target melanin pigment in hair follicles with beams of intense light. This damages the follicles to prevent future hair growth. Treatments are spaced 4-6 weeks apart and most people need 6-8 sessions for significant results.

For laser hair removal to work properly, the follicle must contain hair. Shaving before each session ensures the pigment is present for disabling. So can you use other temporary removal methods beforehand?

How Hair Removal Creams Like Nair Work

Depilatory creams use chemicals like calcium thioglycolate or potassium thioglycolate to break down keratin protein in hair. This causes the hair to detach from the follicle so it wipes away easily with a cloth.

The effect only lasts a few days until hair starts growing back. Like shaving, depilatory creams only remove hair above the skin. The follicle remains intact below.

Is It Safe to Use Hair Removal Cream Before Laser Sessions?

Using hair removal creams seems convenient for avoiding frequent shaving. But is it safe for your skin and effective for laser hair removal?

Can Cause Skin Irritation and Reactions

The chemicals in Nair and other creams can trigger skin inflammation, rashes, and burns in some people. Reactions are more common with longer application times. This skin damage could limit treatment areas for laser hair removal.

Often Leaves Stubble Behind

While hair removal creams dissolve a lot of hair, they may not remove it as closely as shaving. Any remaining hair stubble still contains useful pigment for laser targeting.

Doesn't Always Destroy Enough Hair Follicles

If depilatory cream use damages some hair follicles, fewer intact follicles with pigment remain for the laser process. Theres a chance the disabled hair wont grow back, but also wont absorb light effectively.

Can Hair Removal Creams Reduce Laser Efficacy?

Using alternatives like Nair between laser sessions may seem convenient. But will it impact results?

Lower Hair Regrowth After Treatment

Damaging some follicles with cream could reduce the number that resume growth. This lowers how much hair needs removing with subsequent laser sessions. But...

Less Remaining Pigment for Laser Targeting

Disabling even a small number of follicles means fewer left as active targets for the laser. The laser tech needs visible stubble present in a follicle to zap it properly.

Greater Risk of Burns or Skin Damage

If creams irritate or inflame skin, treating those areas with laser could cause burns or further damage. Painful skin means you may need to avoid spots entirely.

Best Practices for Prepping Skin Before Laser Hair Removal

Following these guidelines helps ensure successful, comfortable laser hair removal treatments:

Shave Normally the Day Before

Carefully shaving 24 hours pre-laser lets stubble grow back just enough for visibility without being too long or irritating skin.

Avoid Using Depilatory Creams

Hold off Nair or other hair removal creams between laser sessions so all follicles with pigment remain intact.

Exfoliate Gently 2-3 Days Before

Light exfoliation removes dead skin cells to expose hair follicles. But avoid irritation and redness.

Cleanse Skin the Morning Of

Wash treatment areas with a mild cleanser to remove excess oil, sweat, skin cells, or products that could interfere with the laser.

Avoid Applying Lotions or Makeup

Leave treatment areas clean and dry to allow maximum laser light absorption by hair follicles.

What About After Laser Hair Removal Treatments?

Post-treatment care is also key. Be sure to:

• Apply aloe vera gel to soothe skin
• Use cold compresses if skin feels overly warm
• Keep treated areas clean and dry for 24 hours
• Avoid makeup, deodorant, etc immediately after
• Stay out of the sun, hot tubs, steam rooms for 48 hours

This aftercare helps skin heal while minimizing infection risk, irritation and other side effects.

Be patient through the weeks-long laser hair removal process. Avoiding depilatory creams allows the most successful results long-term.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.