When to Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal? Is It Necessary? 

Laser hair removal is one of the best options to get rid of unwanted body hair for a long time duration. Although it seems expensive, the method is cost-effective in the long run as you do not have to spend money on waxes or shaving products anymore.

The treatment shows reliable results in most cases but it requires sufficient aftercare to improve the effectiveness of the results. One important step in this aftercare is exfoliation. Is it necessary to exfoliate after laser hair removal? When to exfoliate after laser hair removal? Let’s find out!

Table of Contents:

• Part 1: Why Should You Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal?
• Part 2: When to Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal?
• Part 3: How to Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal?

Part 1: Why Should You Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal? 

Removes Dead Cells

Exfoliating after laser hair removal sessions get rid of dead skin cells and dirt from the skin’s surface. This makes your body clean and makes the skin texture more smooth. It also prevents dull skin appearance caused by dead cells and dirt on the skin.  

Promotes Hair Shedding

As the laser burns hair follicles, the already present hair sheds out after the session. Exfoliating the treated area makes this process a lot easier. Rubbing the skin with a gentle scrub loosens up the hair strands allowing them to fall off the skin. 

Prevent Clogging of Pores and Ingrown Hair

The buildup of dead skin cells and dirt on the body’s surface can clog pores. If it is on the face, the risk of acne increases. On top of that, this accumulated matter can trap hairs leading to ingrown hair. Regular exfoliation prevents both clogging of pores and the ingrown hair thus saving you from excessive irritation. 

Improves Effectiveness of Results

As all the treated hair falls off more easily after exfoliation, the effectiveness of the results is improved. It also removes dead cells from the skin, bringing out fresher skin and allowing the treated area to heal and regenerate more quickly. 

Part 2: When to Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal? 

Exfoliation after laser hair removal is necessary but it is only effective when done at the right time. As the skin becomes sensitive after laser hair removal, therefore you must not exfoliate immediately after the session. Let your skin heal and wait for at least 3-5 days before using any exfoliant on the skin. 

Signs that Your Skin is Ready for Exfoliation

Here are some signs that can help you that your skin has healed enough and is ready for exfoliation:

• There are no traces of redness and inflammation that developed after laser hair removal
• Try scratching the treated area gently and see if you feel any burning or stinging sensation. If not, you are ready for exfoliation
• It does not feel tender on touching 

However, if your skin is still sensitive and is inflamed, wait for a day or two to see if the inflammation subsides. During this time, you can use cool compressions on the skin for soothing. In addition, avoid anything that can irritate the skin. For instance, taking hot showers, harsh products, or tight clothes should be avoided temporarily. 

Part 3: How to Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal? 

Choose the Right Exfoliating Product

The choice of the right exfoliating product greatly influences your skin’s reaction to exfoliation. As your skin is already sensitive after the laser, go for a mild exfoliant.

If you are using physical scrubs then go for sponges, washrags, or exfoliating gloves, In case of chemical exfoliants, use those with alpha or beta-hydroxy acids in them as they are mild in nature. Using a scrub with a harsh nature will not cause abrasions on the skin and slow down the healing process. 

Step-by-Step Guide for Safe Exfoliation

• The first step for exfoliation is skin cleansing to remove the layer of dirt from the skin’s surface. Use a gentle cleanser on the skin, lather it up, and wash the area thoroughly
• Then do a patch test to see if the product is safe for your skin. Rub the exfoliant gently on a small area and if it does not irritate your skin, go for it
• Now, use the exfoliant in gentle circular motions. Ensure that you are neither very gentle nor applying too much pressure during exfoliation 
• Cover the whole area and then rinse the skin thoroughly with lukewarm water
• If you used a chemical exfoliant, ensure that no residue is left behind
• Let the skin be air dry or use a gentle cloth to pat dry the exfoliated area 

Also, make sure that you are exfoliating on damp skin to reduce friction and skin irritation. Lastly, keep in mind that you must wait at least a week before exfoliating again to ensure that your skin has healed from the previous session. 

Aftercare

You are not done yet! Exfoliation also makes your skin sensitive and easily irritated therefore you must:

• Apply a gentle moisturizer on the treated area to maintain skin hydration. This prevents dry skin which can be a reason behind skin irritation. In addition, hydrating the skin also speeds up the healing process
• Avoid applying any harsh products on the skin 
• Avoid going out or wearing sunscreen to reduce the effect of UV rays as the exfoliated skin is more prone to damage by the sun rays

Conclusion

Exfoliating the treated area after laser hair removal helps prevent clogging of pores, promotes hair shedding, removes dead cells, and improves skin texture. It also helps you achieve optimal results. However, it is only possible if you are following the proper instructions for exfoliation and doing it at the right time.

Give your skin a minimum of 3-5 days to heal from the laser session and then exfoliate it. Ensure that you are not being too vigorous or doing it very often as it will only damage your skin further.