So, you’re thinking about Laser Hair Removal or you’ve just scheduled your first-ever session, but your brain is firing off a million questions—Will it hurt? Will my skin turn a weird colour?
The good news? Laser hair removal is safe, effective, and way less scary than it sounds. But, like any good treatment, a little prep goes a long way. Whether you’re a total newbie or just need a refresher, here’s everything you need to know before your first Laser Hair Removal session.
1. Avoid waxing and plucking, but shaving is fine
Laser hair treatment works by targeting the hair roots, so you must not wax or pluck four weeks leading up to your appointment. Instead, you can shave the treatment area at least 12-24 hours before the day of your treatment to keep the pigment in the hair follicles.
2. Avoid direct sun exposure
Everyone loves a sun-kissed glow. But if you’re getting Laser Hair Removal, the sun is not your friend (at least, not right now). Exposing the treatment area to UV (ultraviolet) rays in the two weeks leading up to your appointment can make your skin more sensitive and increase the risk of irritation, burns, or pigmentation changes. Why? It all comes down to melanin.
Laser Hair Removal targets the melanin (pigment) in your hair follicles to destroy them safely at the root. Sun-tanned skin has more melanin as a natural defence mechanism. Basically, the laser might mistake your skin for the hair it’s supposed to be treating, which increases the risk of adverse effects.
Avoid this by trying to stay out of direct sunlight for up to 2-6 weeks before your appointment. That means also skipping the tanning beds and self-tan creams. Keep your skin tone at its base level as much as possible on the day of your treatment to get safer, smoother, and more effective results.
3. Check your skincare regimen
Bathing before the appointment is good but do not apply any makeup or topical creams like moisturisers, serums or deodorant. These substances can cover the skin, blocking the laser’s ability to target the hair follicles. You should also avoid Cosmetic-Grade Chemical Peels or laser resurfacing treatments at least four weeks before your treatments.
4. Cleanse and exfoliate, but don’t overdo it
On the day of, thoroughly cleanse the treatment area —no lotions, oils, or deodorants—so the laser can directly target the hair follicles without any product interference.
Exfoliation is okay, but don’t overdo it. Over-exfoliating may compromise your skin barrier and make it more sensitive to the laser. Gentle exfoliation 3 days before your appointment, with a mild scrub like an African sponge or a mild exfoliant will do the trick without irritating your skin.
If your skin feels dry after exfoliating, lightly moisturising with a fragrance-free lotion can help, but keep in mind that anything applied to the skin will be wiped away before the session anyway.
5. Wear comfortable clothing
Avoid wearing tight jeans, synthetic leggings, or anything that clings to your skin after a Laser Hair Removal session. Your skin may feel a little warm and sensitive, so the last thing you want is abrasive fabric rubbing against the treated area—especially if you’ve had a large area (like your legs) or a sensitive spot (like your bikini line) treated.
Go for loose, breathable clothing—think flowy dresses, oversized tees, or relaxed-fit joggers. This helps prevent friction, irritation, and any unnecessary discomfort post-treatment. Plus, if your technician applies a soothing gel or cream, wearing loose clothing keeps it from rubbing off onto your outfit.
6. Be honest about medications you’re taking
Your laser technician may say it’s fine in most cases, it never hurts to be upfront about any medications you’re taking. Certain medications can make your skin more photosensitive (extra reactive to laser), which could heighten the risk of irritation or burns.
Some medications worth mentioning include:
- Antibiotics
- Acne treatments like accutane (Isotretinoin)
- Retinoids and high-strength retinol
- Hormonal medications
- Blood thinners and NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
Even if you think a medication isn’t relevant, just play it safe and mention it upfront. So your technician can adjust or recommend the best approach.
7. Be prepared for potential side effects
- Redness, itching, or slight swelling immediately after, especially in sensitive areas like the bikini line or upper lip are normal. These usually resolve within 24 hours.
- It’s also possible tiny pimples or ingrown hairs temporarily occur, as weak hairs struggle to shed—gentle exfoliation (once healed) can help. Pain also varies by area and skin sensitivity. Some sessions may feel like a warm snap, but others like Brazilian Laser Hair Removal can occasionally feel more intense.
- A good clinic will adjust settings and pace to your comfort, so if a technician rushes through despite your discomfort, reconsider where you’re going.
- If your skin isn’t at its natural baseline tone, (i.e., if you’ve tanned or used self-tanner), the laser can cause skin discolouration—dark spots or unwanted light patches—which is why honesty about sun exposure is crucial.
Many of these effects are temporary and manageable, and with the right clinic and proper aftercare, the long-term results are well worth it.
Choose Laser Clinics New Zealand for Smooth, Hair-Free Skin. All Day, Every Day
At Laser Clinics New Zealand, our highly-trained Therapists will consider your skin and hair type before creating a personalised laser hair removal plan tailored to you. We are the largest global cosmetic clinic company, and we use the best medical-grade, industry-leading technology to get the best results for our clients.
Guided with all these tips, you’re ready for your first laser hair removal session. Get your personalised treatment - book your complimentary consultation with us today.
