How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal?

George Kazaryan • August 4, 2025
Laser hair removal is one of today’s most in-demand treatments for reducing unwanted body hair with long lasting results. Whether you’re looking into a quick touchup or planning full body coverage, how you prepare beforehand plays a major role in both comfort and effectiveness. It’s not just about showing that your skin needs to be in the right condition to respond well to the laser and minimize any chances of irritation.

If you’re scheduling your first session at a trusted clinic like SM Skin LA in Glendale, CA, it’s important to follow a few key steps before your appointment. In this guide, you’ll learn how to properly prepare, why each step matters, and how the right prep can help you get better results in fewer sessions.

How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal?

1. Schedule a Consultation First

Before beginning your laser hair removal journey, it’s essential to book a personalized consultation. During this session, your provider will assess key factors like your skin tone, hair thickness, and overall treatment goals. They'll also ask about your medical history, past skin treatments, and any medications that may affect your eligibility.

This step ensures your safety and allows the team to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. You’ll receive detailed pre-care instructions such as how and when to shave, which products to avoid, and what to expect during and after your sessions to help you prepare with confidence.

2. Avoid Waxing, Tweezing, or Threading

Laser works by targeting the pigment in the hair root. So, it's essential that the root is intact. Four weeks before your session, stop all hair removal methods that pull hair from the root. This includes waxing, plucking, epilation, and threading. These techniques remove the hair follicle that the laser needs to target, which can reduce the effectiveness of your treatment.

Shaving, however, is allowed and even encouraged. We'll talk more about that next.

If you're considering a more extensive treatment like full body hair removal, this step is especially important. You can find more information in our previous blog on that topic.

3. Shave the Area a Day Before

Shave the treatment area 12 to 24 hours before your appointment. This helps the laser reach the follicle without interference from surface hair. Make sure you use a clean, sharp razor to avoid nicks or irritation.

This applies to all areas whether it’s a Brazilian laser hair removal session or something more basic like the legs or underarms.

4. Avoid Sun Exposure and Tanning

Stay out of direct sunlight or tanning beds for at least 7–10 days before treatment. Laser is less effective and riskier on tanned skin because it targets pigment. Sunburned skin can also react poorly and become irritated or discolored.

Always wear sunscreen if you’re going outside, especially if your face or arms are the targeted areas.

5. Stop Using Active Skincare Ingredients

Avoid using retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or any exfoliating agents on the treatment area for 5–7 days prior to your session. These can increase skin sensitivity, which may lead to discomfort or unwanted reactions during laser.

If you're unsure about your skincare routine, consult your provider during your pre-treatment consultation at SM Skin LA in Glendale, CA.

6. Avoid Deodorants, Lotions, or Makeup on Treatment Day

On the day of your appointment, make sure the treatment area is completely clean, dry, and product free. That means no lotions, oils, creams, deodorants, perfumes, or makeup especially if you're treating sensitive areas like the face, bikini line, or underarms. These products can interfere with the laser’s ability to target hair follicles effectively and may increase your risk of skin irritation or sensitivity. Arriving with a clean slate ensures safer, more efficient results from your session.

7. Review Medication Use

Before beginning your laser hair removal sessions, it’s crucial to review any medications you’re currently taking with your provider. Certain medications especially antibiotics, acne treatments, or hormonal therapies can increase your skin’s sensitivity to light and raise the risk of side effects like burns or hyperpigmentation.

Always be transparent during your consultation, even if you think a medication isn’t related. This is especially important if you're treating facial areas or sensitive zones like the chest and abdomen, which are common laser hair removal men areas. Your technician may suggest postponing treatment or adjusting laser settings for your safety.

8. Hydrate and Moisturize Leading Up to Your Session

Well hydrated skin responds better to laser energy, making your treatments more effective and comfortable. In the days before your session, apply a gentle, fragrance free moisturizer daily this helps strengthen your skin barrier and reduce the chance of post-treatment dryness or sensitivity. Just remember to skip moisturizers on the actual day of your appointment. In addition, drink plenty of water to support your skin from within, keeping it balanced, smooth, and in optimal condition for laser treatment.

9. Choose Comfortable, Loose Clothing

On the day of your appointment, opt for soft, loose fitting clothing to keep treated areas comfortable and irritation free. Tight fabrics can rub against sensitive skin and cause redness or discomfort after your session. If you're getting a bikini, underarm, or full body hair removal treatment, wear breathable cotton garments or clothing that's easy to change out of. Prioritizing comfort helps your skin stay calm immediately after the session.

10. Expect Multiple Sessions

Laser hair removal isn’t a one-and-done process. Hair grows in cycles, and the laser is most effective during the active growth phase. You’ll typically need 6–8 sessions spaced about 4–6 weeks apart for best results. Maintenance sessions may also be needed over time.

Still wondering, "Does hair grow back after laser hair removal?" Read our detailed blog post on that topic to understand how regrowth works and what to expect long-term.

11. Know the Costs Before You Commit

Laser treatment pricing can vary by area and hair density. Whether you’re exploring laser hair removal prices for women or comparing laser hair removal prices for men, it’s important to review the full cost upfront. Visit our pricing page to get transparent, per-area rates.

Things to Avoid Before Your Session

Preparing properly means knowing what not to do. To protect your skin and get the best outcome, keep this list of pre-laser treatment “do’s and don’ts” in mind:

Avoid This Do This Instead
Waxing or threading Shave 12–24 hours before
Tanning/sun exposure Wear SPF daily
Active skincare ingredients Pause 5–7 days before
Lotions, makeup, deodorants Arrive with bare skin
Tight clothing Choose loose, breathable fabrics

How to Care for Your Skin After Your First Session?

Proper aftercare is just as important as preparation. Once your first laser hair removal session is done, your skin may feel slightly warm or sensitive. Here’s how to care for it:

  1. Keep it cool and clean: Avoid hot showers, steam rooms, saunas, and high-intensity workouts for 24–48 hours to prevent irritation.

  2. Soothe the skin gently: Use fragrance-free, calming moisturizers like Aloe Vera. Avoid skincare products with retinol, acids, or exfoliators until the skin has fully settled.

  3. Apply sunscreen daily: Use SPF 30 or higher for at least 2 days, even if you’re mostly indoors.

  4. Time your next session right: Wait 4–6 weeks before rebooking to allow for proper hair growth cycling.

  5. Be patient with shedding: Old treated hairs will naturally fall out over the next 2–3 weeks this is a normal part of the process.

Why These Prep Steps Matter?

Taking the right steps before your laser session makes a significant difference not just in comfort, but in long-term results. Here’s why prep matters:

  • Precise targeting: Clean, shaved skin with intact follicles allows the laser to focus its energy where it matters most.

  • Fewer side effects: Skipping sun exposure and active skincare helps avoid burns, redness, or pigment changes.

  • Improved comfort: Shaved, product-free skin reduces friction and heat buildup during treatment.

  • Faster results: Good preparation helps each session work more effectively, often reducing the number of treatments needed.

  • Safety first: Preparing properly protects your skin barrier and lowers the risk of irritation post-treatment.


A few minutes of prep go a long way toward smoother, lasting results.

Conclusion: Prepare Well for the Best Results

Preparing for laser hair removal doesn’t require major lifestyle changes, but following a few smart steps can lead to smoother skin and better results. From avoiding sun exposure to timing your shave correctly, the effort you put in before treatment makes a big difference afterward.

Thinking about booking your first session? Visit SM Skin LA to learn more about pricing, available areas, and customized treatment plans for both men and women. You can also check out the laser hair removal price for women or laser hair removal price for men on our service page for full transparency.

Start your laser hair removal journey with confidence.

Book your consultation at SM Skin LA in Glendale, CA today and let us help you get started the right way.

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By Satenik Karapetyan July 22, 2025
Smooth, hair free skin has long been associated with confidence and selfcare, but for many, the traditional methods like shaving, waxing, and threading are time consuming, painful, and expensive in the long run. That’s why full body laser hair removal is a goto solution for women and men looking for smooth, hair free skin that lasts. But is it right for you? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros, cons, long term results, costs, and what to expect including a look into laser hair removal in Glendale, CA at SM Skin LA Laser, where your comfort, results, and skin health come first. What Is Full Body Laser Hair Removal? Full body laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target hair follicles across multiple areas of the body arms, legs, chest, back, underarms, bikini area, and even the face. The pigment in the hair absorbs the laser energy, destroying the follicle and preventing future growth. It’s highly customizable and suitable for both men and women, depending on individual hair type, skin tone, and treatment goals. Pros of Full Body Laser Hair Removal 1. Long Term Hair Reduction Laser hair removal is one of the most effective methods for achieving long lasting results. Unlike shaving or waxing, which only provide temporary results, laser treatments work by targeting the hair follicle itself. Over time, this leads to a significant and sustained decrease in hair growth. Most individuals experience up to 80 90% hair growth reduction after six to eight sessions. Any hair that does return tends to be finer, lighter, and much less noticeable. 2. Minimal Maintenance Required Once you complete your initial treatment series, you won’t have to worry about weekly or bi-weekly upkeep. Most people only need a maintenance session once or twice a year to keep their skin smooth and hair free. This makes it especially appealing for those with busy lifestyles who want consistent results without the constant effort. 3. Saves Time and Money Over Time Full body laser hair removal becomes a cost saving investment over time. You eliminate the need for razors, waxing appointments, depilatory creams, and the frequent purchases tied to temporary hair removal methods. In addition to saving money, you’ll gain back valuable time that would otherwise be spent shaving or booking waxing sessions. 4. Reduced Risk of Ingrown Hairs and Irritation For many, traditional methods like waxing or shaving lead to skin irritation, redness, and painful ingrown hairs, especially on sensitive areas. Laser hair removal significantly reduces these issues by targeting the hair at the follicle level, preventing it from growing in a way that causes irritation. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with coarse, curly hair who are more prone to ingrown hairs. 5. Multiple Body Areas Can Be Treated Simultaneously Another advantage is the ability to treat various areas of the body in a single session. Whether it’s the legs, underarms, chest, back, or bikini line, full body laser hair removal offers an efficient approach to go hair free. The entire process is faster and more seamless compared to scheduling separate sessions for different zones. Cons of Full Body Laser Hair Removal 1. Multiple Sessions Are Required for Best Results Laser hair removal is not an instant solution. Hair grows in cycles, and the laser is most effective during the active growth phase. This means you’ll need around 6 to 8 sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, to see optimal results. Consistency is key, and missing appointments can delay progress. 2. Ineffective on Light-Colored Hair Laser hair removal works by targeting pigment in the hair follicle. Because of this, it is less effective on blonde, red, white, or grey hair, which lacks sufficient pigment for the laser to detect. At SM Skin LA Laser in Glendale, CA , we offer electrolysis for those hair types. Electrolysis can permanently remove light colored hairs and ensures you don’t need to seek treatment elsewhere to complete your plan. 3. Higher Upfront Cost Packages for large areas or full-body treatments typically come at a higher price point. However, when compared to years of spending on waxing, razors, or other temporary solutions, many clients find the long-term savings and convenience justify the cost. 4. Mild Discomfort During Sessions Some clients report a snapping or stinging sensation during treatments often compared to a rubber band lightly snapping against the skin. However, the discomfort is typically brief and manageable. At SM Skin & Laser, we use the Candela GentleMax Pro, a state-of-the-art system designed with cooling features that help minimize discomfort and make the experience more tolerable, even for sensitive skin types. Laser Hair Removal for Women: A Popular Choice Women commonly choose full body laser hair removal to eliminate hair from: Underarms Legs Bikini/Brazilian area Arms Back of neck Stomach or back Laser Hair Removal Price for Women Pricing varies based on area size and sessions needed. At SM Skin & Laser, we offer transparent, no-surprise pricing with no hidden fees or aggressive packages. You’ll always know what you’re paying for. Example starting points: Underarms: $65 per session Full Legs: $165 per session Bikini / Brazilian: $155 per session Full Body : $450 per session - Plus, every treatment earns you 10% back through our loyalty program a little thank you for trusting us with your skin. Laser Hair Removal for Men: Rising in Popularity Men now make up a growing portion of laser hair removal clients. Common areas include: Chest and stomach Back and shoulders Beard line and neck Arms and legs It’s ideal for athletes, professionals, and anyone who wants a groomed, clean look without constant maintenance. Laser Hair Removal Price for Men Men’s pricing tends to be slightly higher due to hair density. Starting points include: Full Back: $170 per session Full Chest: $85 per session Neck: $40 per session Full Body Packages: Available upon consultation We offer custom packages that consider your hair growth patterns and desired results plus loyalty rewards for consistent clients. Is Laser Hair Removal Safe? Yes, when performed by experienced, licensed professionals using FDA-approved devices, laser hair removal is a safe and effective cosmetic treatment for long-term. At SM Skin LA Laser, we prioritize both safety and results by using the Candela GentleMax Pro, one of the most trusted systems in the industry. This advanced technology combines dual wavelengths (755 nm and 1064 nm) with a built-in cooling system that protects the skin’s surface during treatment. This allows us to treat a wide range of skin tones from fair to deep with precision and minimal discomfort. The integrated cooling also helps reduce the risk of burns, redness, or post-treatment irritation, making the experience more comfortable for our clients. Before any procedure, our team performs a thorough skin analysis and a melanin test. This ensures the laser settings are customized to your specific skin type, hair color, and sensitivity level. We never rush this step your safety and skin health are our top priorities. Additionally, all sessions are performed in a clean, private studio environment that eliminates the risks often associated with high-volume, impersonal med spas. Who Shouldn’t Have Laser Hair Removal? While laser hair removal is generally safe for most healthy individuals, there are certain conditions and circumstances under which it may not be the best option. A consultation with a licensed laser technician is essential to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you. You may need to delay or avoid laser hair removal if you: Are pregnant or currently breastfeeding: Although there’s no concrete evidence of harm, most providers recommend postponing laser treatments until after pregnancy and nursing, as a precaution. Have active skin infections, rashes, or open wounds in the treatment area: Treating irritated or broken skin can worsen inflammation and interfere with healing. Are taking photosensitizing medications, such as Accutane or certain antibiotics: These drugs can increase your skin’s sensitivity to light and raise the risk of burns or pigmentation changes. You’ll need to discontinue such medications well in advance (under medical guidance) before proceeding with laser. Have very light, blonde, white, or grey hair: Since laser relies on melanin (pigment) to target the hair follicle, it’s often ineffective on light-colored hair. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options we offer electrolysis, a permanent hair removal solution that works for all hair colors, including red and grey. Suffer from certain chronic skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or vitiligo in the treatment area: Laser treatment may aggravate these conditions. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your medical history, current medications, and skin concerns in detail to ensure a safe and customized approach. Your skin’s long-term health and your peace of mind are always at the center of our care. Why Choose SM Skin LA Laser in Glendale, CA When searching for laser hair removal in Glendale, CA, you’ll find plenty of med spas but few that offer a boutique, personalized experience like ours. Clean, Private Studio Feel We maintain a quiet, clean environment where your comfort, hygiene, and privacy come first. No packed waiting rooms, no rushed consultations. Latest Technology Our Candela GentleMax Pro system is industry-leading. It treats all skin tones safely, with fewer sessions and less pain than older lasers. Transparent, No-Surprise Pricing We don’t believe in hidden fees or pressure sales. Every price is clearly explained whether it’s a single session or a full-body package. Loyalty That Actually Rewards You We value your trust. That’s why we offer a rewards program where every dollar you spend turns into points like cashback for self-care. Earn 1 Point per $1 spent Redeem points for discounts or free sessions Buy 5 sessions, get 1 free Buy 8 sessions, get 1 free What About Hair Laser Can’t Treat? We’ve Got You Covered Lasers aren’t effective on every hair type especially blonde, red, or grey hairs. Instead of sending you somewhere else, we offer electrolysis right here in our studio. Electrolysis is: FDA-approved for permanent hair removal Effective on all hair colors Suitable for small, resistant areas (chin, brows, upper lip, etc.) It’s the perfect add-on to a laser hair removal plan that needs a complete, long-term solution. Full Body Laser Hair Removal Process  Consultation We assess your skin type, hair color, medical history, and goals. We also perform a melanin test to ensure safety. Treatment Sessions Most people need 6–8 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, to catch hair in all growth cycles. Post-Treatment Care Mild redness or swelling may occur (resolves in hours) Avoid sun exposure and hot showers for 24–48 hours Apply aloe vera or cooling gels as needed Our technicians guide you through every step with personalized aftercare. Long-Term Results: What You Can Expect After 3–4 sessions: Noticeable decline in hair density. After 6–8 sessions: 80–90% permanent reduction Yearly maintenance: 1–2 sessions per year (if needed) Results vary by skin tone, hair color, and hormonal factors The best part? No more shaving, waxing, or stubble. Just smooth, confident skin year-round. Final Thoughts: Is Full Body Laser Hair Removal Worth It? Absolutely! for the right person, it’s life-changing. With a hair free body, time saved, and enhanced self-confidence, laser hair removal is one of the most rewarding investments in personal care. And with advanced technology, expert care, and transparent pricing at Laser Hair Removal In Glendale you’re in safe, professional hands. Ready to Get Started? Book a consultation today to learn more about: Full body laser hair removal Laser hair removal for women or men Pricing and custom packages Electrolysis add-ons Loyalty rewards program Your skin deserves expert care and we’re here to help you feel your best, every day.
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