How long should you not shave after laser hair removal?

You should avoid shaving for at least 24 to 48 hours after laser hair removal. The laser leaves your skin more sensitive, and shaving too soon can cause irritation, redness, or even small cuts. Waiting a full day allows the treated area to recover from the heat of the laser and reduces the risk of infection or discomfort. After this period, you can shave carefully if needed, using a clean, sharp razor and gentle strokes. 

In this blog, we’ll explain why waiting before shaving is important and share tips to care for your skin after each laser session.

How early is too early to shave after laser hair removal

It’s best not to shave within the first 24 hours after laser hair removal. During this time, your skin is still sensitive from the treatment, and shaving too soon can cause irritation, redness, or small cuts. 

Waiting at least 24 hours gives your skin time to calm down and lowers the risk of side effects. This way, you’ll enjoy a smoother recovery and better results from your laser hair removal sessions.

Why wait to shave after laser hair removal

You should wait to shave after laser hair removal because your skin needs time to heal from the treatment. Right after a session, the skin is more sensitive due to the heat from the laser. If you shave too soon, you can increase irritation, leading to redness, bumps, or discomfort. The razor may also create small cuts or scrapes that are more likely to get infected when your skin is already fragile.

Remember, shaving is the only safe method between sessions, since it doesn’t interfere with the follicles. Waiting before shaving helps protect your skin and supports the overall success of your laser hair removal.

How long should you wait to shave after laser hair removal?

The period will depend on several things. Most experts recommend leaving the skin untouched for at least 2–3 days before shaving. Some even suggest waiting at least 2 weeks. 

Here, LanaSkyn presents a breakdown of what you should do: 

1. First 48 hours:

• After your treatment, your skin may be red and swollen. This is normal.

• Refrain from shaving, waxing, or performing other hair removal techniques in the first two days. 

• The hair follicle is still recovering, so shaving irritates the skin.

2. After 48 hours:

• You can begin shaving this time if your skin feels better, but with care.

• As an additional precaution, use a fresh blade. 

• There is no need for excessive pressure.

  
  

3. Two weeks after treatment:

• Most treated hair will begin to fall off two weeks later. Your skin has also recovered completely.

• It is safe to shave at this time if there is any remaining hair that you like to manage.

• But refrain from waxing, plucking, or depilatory chemicals, as these can disrupt the function of laser treatment.

Factors that affect how long you should wait to shave

The two-days to two-week wait period is typical. However, several factors may influence the timeline. These factors include:

1. Treated areas:

The legs or hands may heal faster than gentler parts like the face, bikini area, or armpits. If treatment was done in these sensitive areas, you should not shave too soon after treatment.

2. Sensitivity levels of the skin:

Allergic or other reactions after laser treatment may vary. The laser hair removal may have more impact on the skin of those with sensitive skin. If shaving causes discomfort, you should avoid shaving for some time.

3. Type of laser used:

Lasers vary in terms of wavelength and intensity. Some lasers may be more intense and may thus irritate the skin more. The kind of laser used also determines how soon after laser hair removal one can shave. Spend time observing your skin. We do, however, recommend consulting your dermatologist.

4. Number of treatments:

If you are still beginning your laser therapy, the possibility of skin reactions is higher. After the first few sessions, the skin gradually develops. After some sessions one can shave with less chance of having irritations. You won't have to wait long if it is just a few touches.

What are the dangers of shaving too early after laser hair removal?

Shaving soon after a laser session can have several harmful effects on the skin and the treatment outcome. Here are the reasons why shaving before a certain period is not advisable:

1. Skin irritation: 

Tenderness and inflammation happen because of the heat generated during laser treatment. Therefore, shaving before the skin has fully recovered leads to excessive irritation. It induces redness, itching, and a burning sensation.

2. Nicks and cuts: 

After the laser treatment the skin becomes thin. Therefore, shaving sooner than necessary tends to cause some cuts or nicking. It may trouble the skin and cause infection.

3. Razor burn: 

Rashes also occur on sensitive skin when a razor is used. It results in redness, itching, and a burning feeling after laser treatment.

4. Ingrown hairs:

Risky shaving within the first few days of laser treatment can lead to ingrown hairs. They are characterized by painful bumps of hair follicles. They are mainly caused if the hair grows back into the skin.

5. Compromised results:

Shaving immediately after lasering has adverse effects, including slowing the recovery process. It complicates matters during your next appointment and slows your progress.

6. Infection risk: 

By shaving within the first few hours post laser treatment, you risk bacteria penetrating the skin. It results in infections such as folliculitis.

7. Prolonged healing time:

Early shaving can lead to a prolonged healing phase of the skin. The natural skin healing process gets hampered. The pain and other side effects also intensify.

8. Pigmentation changes:

Too much irritation leads to dark or light spots on the skin, mainly those prone to skin pigmentation. Such dark spots can take longer to go away and, in some cases, become permanent.

Tips for shaving after laser hair removal

When shaving becomes a safe option, here are some techniques that can help to ease irritation and shield the treated area:

• Use a gentle razor: Always go for a razor with a sharp and gentle blade. A shaver that has become dull may lead to skin tears, irritation, and cuts.

• Shave with light pressure: Do not press too much. The razor should touch the skin without causing any irritation. Shave in the direction of the hair growth, and use suitable creams or gel before.

• Moisturize regularly: Apply a mild, unscented moisturizing product to the area for hydration. It provides relief, especially in the early days following treatment.

• Avoid exfoliating or scrubbing: Avoid using an abrasive scrub or exfoliating after laser hair removal. It will only aggravate your tender skin. You can scrub after a few weeks when the skin has been healed.

• Use sunscreen: After laser treatment, avoid going in the sun, as your skin is more prone to damage. Apply sunblock on treated areas daily. Avoid tanning beds and other sun activities right after the laser.

Conclusion

Shaving is an essential part of the laser hair removal process. But timing and technique also matter. Waiting a few days before shaving allows your skin time to heal.

Shaving is the safest and most effective way to remove hair between sessions. It keeps your skin smooth without affecting your results. A good aftercare routine also improves your laser treatment and helps you get longer-lasting results.

For personalized advice, consult with our laser experts in Amsterdam. Remember, patience is key to achieving smooth, hair-free skin!

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to use electric razors after laser hair removal?

Yes, electric razors are generally safe to use after laser hair reduction. They are less likely to irritate sensitive skin compared to traditional razors.

How often should I shave between laser sessions?

Shave as needed between sessions, but avoid over-shaving. The frequency will depend on your hair growth rate, which slows down after each session.

Can I shave if the treated area still feels sensitive?

No, avoid shaving if your skin feels tender or looks red. Wait until these symptoms decrease.