GentleLASE for Laser Hair Removal
· Avoid the sun 4-6 weeks before and after treatment until Dr. Ali allows it.
· You MUST avoid bleaching, plucking, or waxing hair for 6 weeks prior to treatment.
· If you have had a history of cold sores, an antiviral medication may be started the day before treatment and continued one week after treatment to avoid a break out.
· If you are tan or have a darker skin type, a bleaching regimen may be started 4-6 weeks before treatment. Also, the use of tanning cream must be discontinued one week before treatment.
· The skin must be cleaned and shaved or left with a couple days new growth before the treatment. The use of anesthesia is optional.
· Immediately after treatment, there should be redness and swelling at the treatment site, which may last up to 2 hours, or longer. The redness may last up to 2-3 days. The treated area will feel like a sunburn for a few hours after treatment. The application of ice during the first few hours after treatment will reduce any discomfort and swelling that may be experienced. You may also use WellMedica’s After Laser Gel to relieve any discomfort.
· Dr. Ali recommends only WellMedica’s After Laser Gel or ice after treatment. Darker pigmented people may have more discomfort than lighter skin people and may require WellMedica’s After Laser Gel longer. Antibiotic ointment may be used for 3-4 days but usually is not necessary.
· Makeup may be used immediately after treatment unless there is blistering. It is recommended to use NEW makeup to reduce the possibility of infection or at least new applicators.
· Avoid sun exposure to reduce the chance of hyperpigmentation or darker pigmentation. Use sunblock at all times throughout the course of treatment.
· Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin. Do not use any other hair removal treatment products or similar treatments (waxing, electrolysis or tweezing) that will disturb the hair follicle on the treatment area for 4-6 weeks after the laser treatment is performed. Shaving or depilatories may be used.
· Anywhere from 5-14 days after treatment, shedding of the surface hair may occur and this appears as new hair growth. This is NOT new hair growth. You can clean and remove the hair by washing or wiping the area with a wet cloth or Loofa sponge.
· After the underarms are treated, use a powder instead of deodorant for 24 hours after treatment to reduce skin irritation.
· There are no restrictions on bathing except to treat the skin gently, as if you had sunburn for the first 24 hours.
You can schedule your GentleLase sessions 6-8 weeks apart.
If you have any questions please call our office at 703 787-9866.
WellMedica
1801 Robert Fulton Drive
Suite 540
Reston, VA 20191