3 Tips For Laser Hair Removal Aftercare

Laser hair removal is one of the most effective and lasting solutions for reducing unwanted body or facial hair. But for your skin to heal well and your results to last, proper laser hair removal aftercare is essential. At Prosper Health & Aesthetics in Sioux City, we make sure every client knows that what you do after your session can have just as much impact as the treatment itself. Whether you’re preparing for your first session or looking to fine-tune your post-treatment routine, today we’re sharing three expert aftercare tips to help you protect your skin, minimize irritation and enjoy smooth results that last.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal works by delivering targeted pulses of light energy that penetrate the skin and heat the hair follicles, effectively disrupting their ability to grow. Over time, treated follicles become inactive, resulting in smoother skin and significantly reduced hair regrowth. Because the laser works beneath the surface, it’s normal to experience mild redness, warmth, or sensitivity afterward—these effects are temporary and part of your skin’s natural healing process.

At Prosper Health & Aesthetics, we use DiolazeXL, one of the most advanced and effective laser hair removal systems available. DiolazeXL combines high-speed treatment with a built-in cooling system to make each session more comfortable, even on larger or more sensitive areas. This technology allows for deeper penetration, faster results and fewer sessions overall. We also place a strong focus on post-treatment care—guiding you on how to soothe your skin, avoid irritation and support healthy healing for the best possible outcome.

Aftercare Tip #1 - Cool Down & Protect

The goal during the first 48 hours is to let the skin breathe and cool down. Keeping your skin clean and hydrated (but not overloaded with products) is one of the cornerstones of laser hair removal aftercare success. Immediately after a laser hair removal season your skin will likely feel warm, sensitive or slightly inflamed. To reduce these symptoms:

Apply a cool compress

Use a clean, soft cloth soaked in cool water to soothe the treated area. This helps calm inflammation and brings immediate relief.

Use fragrance-free aloe vera gel

Aloe is naturally soothing and helps promote skin healing without clogging pores or causing irritation.

Avoid heat exposure

Skip hot baths, saunas and sweaty workouts for at least 24–48 hours. Heat can intensify irritation and delay recovery.

No makeup or deodorant (if treated areas include the face or underarms)

These products can cause irritation or block pores during the healing process.

Aftercare Tip #2 - Managing Mild Discomfort

It’s completely normal to experience a bit of redness, mild swelling (especially around each treated follicle) and sensitivity. These symptoms usually resolve within a few hours to a couple of days. Some clients may also notice “shedding” a few days post-treatment—this is actually a positive sign! As your hair follicles push out the damaged hair, it may appear as though the hair is “growing” again. Avoid waxing, plucking or shaving aggressively during this time.

Here are a few more helpful aftercare tips to help manage any discomfort:

Stick to gentle skincare

Use a mild, unscented cleanser and avoid scrubs or exfoliants. Do not pick, rub, or scratch treated areas.

Hydrate your skin

Apply a non-comedogenic, soothing moisturizer 2–3 times daily. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or calendula

Stay out of the sun

Sun exposure after laser treatments can cause pigmentation changes and increase the risk of irritation. Always apply SPF 30+ to exposed areas and avoid tanning beds altogether.

Aftercare Tip #3 - Long-Term Care & Maintenance

Consistent care between sessions ensures the best results, both short-term and long-term. Here’s how to maintain that silky smooth look and keep your skin happy:

• Avoid hair removal methods that pull the follicle like waxing, plucking or threading because it can interfere with laser effectiveness.

• Stick to shaving between sessions if needed!

• Exfoliate gently after a few days (typically 5–7 days post-treatment) with a mild exfoliant to help remove dead skin and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.

• Never exfoliate too early or aggressively!

• Stick to your treatment schedule because laser hair removal works best when done in a series of sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart that are timed with your hair’s growth cycle.

• Be mindful of product use and avoid retinoids, glycolic acids or any active ingredients for at least a week unless cleared by your provider. 

• Sun protection should remain a permanent part of your skincare routine—even months after your final session. Laser-treated skin is more sensitive to UV exposure, which can cause dark spots and premature aging. Broad-spectrum sunscreen is your best friend in laser hair removal aftercare.

FAQs

What should I expect immediately after laser hair removal?

You may notice redness, swelling and a sensation similar to a mild sunburn. These effects are normal and temporary, typically fading within 24–48 hours. Using cool compresses and avoiding heat and friction will help ease discomfort.

How can I soothe my skin after a session?

Stick to clean, calming products like aloe vera gel and unscented moisturizers. Avoid makeup, deodorant and hot environments for the first couple of days. Hydration and gentle care go a long way toward soothing the skin.

Are there any products I should avoid using after laser hair removal?

Yes. Avoid retinoids, chemical exfoliants (like glycolic or salicylic acid), fragranced lotions and alcohol-based products for at least a week. Also skip scrubs, loofahs and anything abrasive. These can all disrupt healing or trigger irritation.

Why Choose Prosper Health & Aesthetics for Laser Hair Removal

At Prosper Health & Aesthetics, we’re committed to helping you get the most out of your investment in laser hair removal. While the treatment itself is powerful, laser hair removal aftercare is what helps lock in results and keep your skin healthy throughout the process.

From the moment you leave your appointment, your skin enters a healing phase—and our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re treating the face, underarms, bikini line, or full body, following the right aftercare protocol ensures smooth skin, minimal side effects and long-term hair reduction.

Laser hair removal aftercare isn’t complicated—it just takes the right information and a little extra love for your skin. Connect with us today to schedule your consultation!