Laser Hair Removal Recovery
In most cases, the recovery period after a laser hair removal procedure is fairly short — from several hours to two days — but you may have mild to moderate pain. While you’ll likely experience tenderness and swelling in the treated area immediately following the procedure, this can be alleviated with ice, topical creams or, in more severe cases, over-the-counter or prescription painkillers. Still, you should be able to return to your normal routine immediately.

If you are having your upper lip or another highly visible spot treated, you may choose not to go out in public until the redness subsides, but that’s an individual decision rather than a medical one.

Your doctor will likely recommend or, in some cases, prescribe moisturizing creams to help the treated area recover. Avoid shaving, waxing, plucking or otherwise irritating the treated area for four or five days. The use of strong soaps that can dry out the skin should also be avoided. You should also avoid exposing the treated area to sunlight, because even a little bit of sun can irritate and burn the area. If you need to go outside for an extended period, sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is recommended.

Within several days of the laser hair removal treatment, you’ll begin to shed hair in the treated area. This is normal; in fact, it’s a sign that the laser hair removal treatment is working.

Your doctor may ask you to come in for a follow-up visit within a week or two of the procedure to make sure your recovery is progressing adequately. In any event, if you experience severe pain or other alarming symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor.