Exfoliating after Laser Hair Removal

Posted Thursday, March 17, 2011 to PROCEDURES > Skin

Posted by South Bay Plastic Surgeons

By: Charles W. Spenler, M.D.

Following your Hermosa Beach laser hair removal session, it may be very tempting to reach for a variety of exfoliating products to help speed up the hair shedding process and reveal your softer, smoother appearance. However, at this stage, proper aftercare is extremely important. Scrubbing too harshly or using the wrong products can actually irritate the skin and cause inflammation.

Gentle exfoliation, however, can help remove hair from the follicles and prevent the pores from clogging. Here are some general guidelines for your laser hair removal recovery:

• Wash with a natural loofah or washcloth (which are often softer than synthetic materials) to encourage hair shedding.
• Don't scrub or rub the skin harshly.
• Use a mild cleanser rather than a perfumed soap, which can cause irritation (a low-level glycolic acid cleanser is a good choice).
• Apply an anti-redness lotion or gel such as Aloe Vera daily. Your doctor may also prescribe a topical corticosteroid cream or antibiotic ointment after treatment.
• Avoid waxing or plucking between treatments. In general, you should avoid shaving for the first few days after laser hair removal. Ask your physician for specific guidelines.
• Use ice or cool compresses to soothe the area, if necessary.
• Apply a sunscreen daily to protect the skin and prevent sunburn.

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