Getting laser treatment for your skin is a decision that deserves thoughtful preparation. Whether it’s a new experience or part of your routine, taking care of your skin before and after each session is essential. It’s more than just booking an appointment. Your skin needs the right care to get the best results. When prepared properly, skin responds more smoothly, heals more quickly, and is less likely to show irritation. A few intentional steps can make the entire process more comfortable and effective.

Why Preparation Matters for Laser Treatments

Laser treatments use light energy to target specific areas of the skin, whether that’s for hair removal, resurfacing, pigmentation, or even treating acne scars. Your skin is being zapped with heat, so it needs to be calm, clean, and ready to handle it. Skipping pre-laser prep can lead to complications like burns, hyperpigmentation, or increased sensitivity.

If you're opting for Laser Hair Removal, your clinic will likely provide specific instructions, but there are universal steps everyone should follow for safe, smooth results.

Top Pre-Laser Skincare Steps You Can’t Afford to Miss

1. Stop Waxing or Plucking, Shave Instead

About two weeks before your appointment, stop waxing or plucking the area. These methods remove hair from the root, which the laser needs to target. If there’s no root, the treatment won’t be effective.

Instead, shave the area 24 hours before your session. This keeps the hair follicle intact under the skin, while also preventing the surface hair from absorbing too much heat.

2. Avoid the Sun 

Sun exposure can cause your skin to become more sensitive and increase the risk of burns or pigment changes after your session. Ideally, avoid direct sun exposure on the area being treated for at least 2 weeks beforehand.

If you’re heading outdoors, apply SPF 30+ every few hours even on cloudy days. This applies to anyone, but especially if you’re going for Laser Hair Removal in Shrewsbury, where treatments are often booked year-round.

3. Don’t Use Active Skincare Ingredients

About a week before your appointment, press pause on products containing retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients can make your skin more sensitive and prone to reaction when exposed to lasers. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free products to keep your skin calm and balanced.

Ingredients to avoid before laser:

• Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin)

• AHAs/BHAs (Glycolic, Lactic, Salicylic acid)

• Vitamin C (high concentrations)

• Harsh exfoliants or peels

4. Don’t Show Up With Fake Tan or Makeup

Laser targets pigment, so if your skin tone is artificially darkened (from self-tanner or heavy foundation), it can confuse the laser and increase the chance of burns. Always arrive at your appointment with clean, bare skin, no lotions, no perfumes, and definitely no makeup.

If you're unsure, ask your specialist during a consultation. Most providers offering Laser Hair Removal are happy to clarify how your current products or habits could impact the treatment.

How to Prepare Based on Your Skin Type

Fair to Light Skin

• Still avoid sun and active light skin is prone to redness post-treatment

• Use calming moisturisers and barrier creams

• Consider taking an antihistamine if you’re prone to swelling

Medium to Deep Skin Tones

• Use sunscreen religiously to avoid hyperpigmentation

• Check with your clinic if they use appropriate lasers 

• Avoid any exfoliants or brightening agents beforehand

If you’re concerned about how your skin type might react, consult a licensed professional. Many private dentists in Shrewsbury now offer aesthetic treatments and can advise on skin compatibility with lasers.

Medications and Health Considerations

If you’re taking any antibiotics, acne treatments, or hormonal medication, always let your provider know beforehand. Some medications can make your skin photosensitive, increasing the risk of negative side effects. You should also avoid laser treatments if:

• You’re pregnant (most clinics will reschedule for safety)

• You’ve recently had a chemical peel

• You’ve taken Accutane within the last 6 months

Clinics offering Laser Hair Removal are typically very clear on eligibility. A pre-treatment consultation is your chance to go over all the fine details and ensure you’re making the best choice.

The Day Before and Day Of: Final Checklist

24 Hours Before

• Shave the treatment area

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol (these can heighten sensitivity)

• Don’t apply moisturiser or lotion to the area

Day of the Appointment

• Wear loose-fitting clothes over the area to prevent friction

• Bring a water bottle and stay hydrated

• Arrive with clean skin, no deodorant, makeup, or SPF

• Bring a list of any skincare or medication you’re currently using

Even if it’s your tenth session, don’t skip the prep. Think of it like brushing your teeth before a dental visit, you wouldn’t go to a private dentist in Shrewsbury with a mouthful of biscuits, right

Frequently Overlooked Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping a patch test – Always request a test spot, especially if it’s your first session.

• Using new skincare products – Stick with your trusted basics in the week leading up.

• Applying SPF only once – Reapply every 2–3 hours if outdoors.

• Drinking alcohol the night before – It can increase inflammation and sensitivity.

• Not communicating with your provider – Speak up about discomfort, allergies, or recent changes.

Laser Hair Removal: More Than Just Skin Deep

Laser treatments can boost your confidence and save you time in the long run, but it’s not a decision to rush. Proper preparation helps reduce risk and gives your skin the best chance to respond well. Whether it’s your first session or you’ve booked a full course of Laser Hair Removal, having a game plan is essential.

And don’t forget, many private dentists in Shrewsbury now offer facial aesthetics and laser treatments as part of a wider wellness approach. So if you already trust your dentist with your smile, it might be worth asking them about their skincare options too.

Conclusion

Laser treatments can offer fantastic results, but only if your skin is ready to handle them. From shaving at the right time to pressing pause on activities, a few thoughtful steps make all the difference. Whether it’s a one-off session or part of a long-term plan, prepping properly leads to better comfort and better outcomes. At EDS, we take skin safety seriously. That’s why our team walks you through every step so your results are as smooth as your post-treatment skin.