How to Prep for Laser Hair Removal When You Have Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, the idea of laser hair removal might sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. At Living Water Vein Institute & Medical Spa in Abingdon, VA, and Johnson City, TN, your comfort and safety are our top priorities.

Led by board-certified venous and lymphatic medicine specialist Dr. John Berry, we provide high-level, minimally invasive solutions for both vein disease and medical aesthetics. Many of our patients seeking vein care also want to feel more confident in their skin. That’s why we offer medical spa services like laser hair removal. It’s a natural extension of the care we provide!

In laser hair removal, a controlled beam of light targets pigment within the hair follicle. For those with sensitive skin, the light can cause redness and irritation both above and below the skin surface, so proper skin prep is crucial.

What to Avoid Before Your Appointment 

Avoid direct sunlight for at least two weeks before your appointment. A sunburn is a skin injury, and sensitive skin is more likely to develop a reaction to laser light if it is already stressed by UV rays.

If you must be outdoors, wear a gentle, broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. 

In the week before your appointment, stop using any skincare products that include harsh ingredients such as: 

• Retinol 
• Glycolic acid 
• Salicylic acid 
• Benzoyl peroxide 

These ingredients can make your skin more reactive to the laser. 

Hair Removal Before Your Treatment 

Shave the treatment area the night before your appointment. Shaving helps the laser focus on the follicle instead of surface hair, but shaving sensitive skin too close to your session can cause extra irritation.

Avoid waxing or plucking for at least four weeks prior, as both remove the hair root, which the laser needs to target. 

Because we specialize in vein care, we often treat individuals who already have sensitive skin or circulation issues. Our experienced team will tailor your treatment settings for your skin type and sensitivity.

Laser Hair Removal in Abingdon and Johnson City

With the right preparation and a careful approach, laser hair removal can be safe and comfortable for sensitive skin. Call Living Water Vein Institute & Medical Spa 276-289-2720 for our Abingdon, VA, office or 423-631-0101 for Johnson City, TN, to schedule your appointment.