Your laser session is only half of the process. What you do in the hours, days and weeks afterwards plays a big part in how comfortable your skin feels and how well your results develop. Good laser hair removal aftercare is simple, but it does take a little attention. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to looking after your skin after a session at Sunmoon Beauty, or anywhere else.
What’s normal right after laser hair removal?
It’s common for treated skin to look and feel a little different for a short time. You may notice:
- Redness, similar to a mild sunburn
- Small raised bumps around the hair follicles
- Warmth or a slight stinging feeling
- Mild swelling, especially on sensitive areas like the bikini line or upper lip
For most people, these effects settle within a few hours to a couple of days. If your skin blisters, crusts, looks very dark or very light, or you’re worried about how it’s healing, contact us and see a doctor if needed.
The first 24 to 48 hours
This is when your skin is most sensitive. During the first day or two:
- Keep it cool. A clean, cool compress or a cold pack wrapped in a soft cloth can ease warmth and redness. Never put ice directly on the skin.
- Avoid heat. Skip hot showers and baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs. Lukewarm water is best.
- Pause intense workouts. Heavy sweating and friction can irritate freshly treated follicles. A gentle walk is fine.
- Go fragrance-free. Avoid perfumed lotions, body sprays and scented soaps on the area.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing, especially after bikini, Brazilian or leg sessions.
- Hold off on deodorant after an underarm session if your skin feels irritated. Wait until it has calmed down.
- Skip makeup on treated facial areas for the rest of the day if you can.
A plain, soothing product such as pure aloe vera gel or a simple, fragrance-free moisturizer can make the skin feel more comfortable.
The first week
As your skin settles, a few habits help keep it calm:
- Avoid exfoliating for several days. That includes scrubs, exfoliating mitts, retinoids and acid products (AHAs and BHAs) on the treated area. If you use prescription products, ask your doctor when to restart them.
- Don’t pick or scratch. Let any bumps or redness settle on their own.
- Stay out of chlorinated pools for a day or two, since chlorine can sting sensitive skin.
- Keep the area clean and moisturized with gentle products.
Sun protection: the most important rule
Treated skin is more sensitive to UV light, and sun exposure after laser increases the risk of pigment changes such as dark or light patches. For at least two weeks after each session, and ideally throughout your whole treatment plan:
- Keep treated areas covered or out of direct sun.
- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to exposed areas every day, and reapply when outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds and self-tanners.
In Ottawa, it’s easy to forget that winter sun counts too. Snow reflects UV, so a sunny afternoon skating on the Rideau Canal or skiing can still expose your face. In summer, think ahead before beach days, patio evenings or cottage weekends. This is one reason many women start laser in the fall.
“Shedding”: why hair seems to grow back
About one to three weeks after a session, you may notice hairs that seem to be growing again. Often these are treated hairs being pushed out of the follicle. They may look like stubble or black dots and usually come out easily on their own.
- Don’t pluck them. Let them shed naturally.
- Once your skin has fully calmed, gentle exfoliation in the shower can help them release.
- Shaving is fine if you want a smoother look.
Between sessions: shave, don’t wax
Laser targets the hair root, so it needs to stay in the follicle. Between appointments:
- Shaving is fine. Use a clean, sharp razor.
- Avoid waxing, plucking, threading, sugaring and epilators, which remove the root and can interfere with your next session.
- Keep your appointments on schedule. Sessions are spaced to catch hairs in their active growth phase, so regular timing matters.
Before your next visit, review our tips on how to prepare for laser hair removal.
Aftercare by area
Face (upper lip, chin, cheeks)
Skip makeup for the rest of the day if possible, use a gentle cleanser and apply SPF every morning. Our Face + Chin + Neck bundle is a popular choice for facial hair.
Underarms
Wait to apply deodorant until any irritation has settled, and wear loose tops.
Bikini and Brazilian
Choose loose, cotton underwear, avoid tight leggings for a day and skip intense workouts.
Legs and body
Moisturize with a fragrance-free lotion and avoid hot baths. In winter, apply moisturizer after showering to help prevent dryness from indoor heating.
When to contact a professional
Reach out to us, and see a doctor, if you notice:
- Blisters, burns, crusting or oozing
- Redness or swelling that gets worse after two days
- Signs of infection, such as increasing pain, heat or pus
- Dark or light patches that don’t fade
Frequently asked questions
How long does redness last after laser hair removal?
For most people, redness fades within a few hours to two days. Sensitive areas and darker hair can sometimes stay pink a little longer.
Can I shower after laser hair removal?
Yes. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser, and pat the area dry instead of rubbing. Avoid hot showers for the first day or two.
When can I work out after laser?
It’s best to wait 24 to 48 hours before intense exercise to reduce sweating and friction on treated skin.
Can I wax between laser sessions?
No. Waxing removes the hair root that the laser needs to target. Shaving is the recommended option between sessions.
Ready for your next session?
Whether you’re starting out or continuing a series, Sunmoon Beauty’s women-only private studio in Findlay Creek makes laser easy to fit into your week, with free on-street parking and appointments Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM. Browse our laser hair removal services and prices, see our full body laser hair removal option ($350 per session), then book on Fresha. New to laser? Start with a free skin consultation, or call (437) 241-6099.