When is the prime time to do laser hair removal and laser vein treatment?

Heartland Plastic and Hand Surgery offers laser hair removal procedures to men and women living in Sikeston, Farmington and other nearby communities.

Both laser hair removal and laser vein treatment work best with a very pale skin background, a dark, coarse hair follicle, or a small, bright red, telangiectatic spider vein appearance. The contrast between the structure of unwanted hair or varicose veins and the underlying or base skin is very important to maximize the result of the laser treatment. Usually, several series of hair removal treatments are needed anywhere from one month to two months apart to accurately account for the varying phases of hair growth. Laser hair can remove the hair shaft and hair follicles on various parts of the body, including the upper lip.

How Hair and Skin Color Come Into Play

Although laser hair removal treatments can be done year-round when light skin patients have a dark tan, the results are less successful, and sometimes treatments have to be postponed if the underlying skin is quite dark. My general recommendations to patients would be to begin laser treatments in the late fall after the pools have closed down and they are back wearing long pants or long-sleeved shirts. Again, a series of treatments for every one to two months is needed. With this time frame, they have often completed their treatment sessions by the time spring comes around. At the time of the consultation we will discuss the number of treatments that are needed, as well as the interval between the treatments with each patient. Regular maintenance will best guarantee permanent hair removal; laser technology has provided one of the most effective ways to reduce unwanted hair.

When Preparing For Laser Hair Removal

Avoid Sun Exposure

To achieve the best results with laser hair removal or laser vein treatment, it’s essential to avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks before and after your appointment. Since laser energy is attracted to pigment, excessive sun exposure may increase the risk of potential side effects, including burns, hyperpigmentation, or scar tissue formation.

Protecting the treated area from the sun not only improves the outcome of laser treatments but also helps maintain long-term results. Whether you’re treating the legs, bikini area, or upper lip, minimizing sun exposure is critical to ensure the laser technology can safely and effectively remove unwanted hair.

Blood Thinning Medications

Before undergoing hair removal treatments or vein treatment with lasers, be sure to discuss any blood thinning medications you’re taking during your consultation. These can increase the likelihood of bruising, bleeding, or extended recovery time after your laser procedure.

It’s important for your provider to understand your complete medical history to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for you. If possible, and with your prescribing provider’s approval, you may be asked to temporarily pause certain medications ahead of your laser treatment.

Clear the Skin’s Surface

Clean skin allows the laser fiber to deliver energy more efficiently to the hair follicles or veins being treated. For hair removal, shaving the treatment area 24 hours beforehand is usually recommended to remove the hair shaft while leaving the follicle intact. Avoid waxing or plucking, as these remove the entire follicle, leaving nothing for the laser to target.

A clean, product-free surface enhances safety, speeds up the procedure, and shortens recovery time, allowing you to return to normal activities with minimal disruption.