Laser hair removal before and after care in Riyadh

That's an excellent follow-up question. Proper preparation and aftercare are crucial for maximizing your results and minimizing side effects, especially in a hot climate like Laser Hair Removal in Riyadh.¹

The key considerations for a location with intense sun and common darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) revolve around sun protection and heat/friction avoidance.²

Here is a comprehensive guide for underarm laser hair removal pre- and post-care in Riyadh:

📅 Before Your Laser Hair Removal Session (Pre-Care)

The main goal is to ensure the hair follicle is intact and your skin is at its natural, non-irritated tone so the laser can target the hair pigment effectively and safely.³

DO'sDON'TsShave the Area❌ NO Waxing, Plucking, or ThreadingShave the underarm area 24 hours before your appointment. The laser needs the root to be present for the treatment to work, but no surface hair to absorb the energy and burn the skin.You must avoid removing the hair root for at least 4 to 6 weeks before your session. Shaving is the only acceptable method of hair removal between sessions.Clean Skin❌ NO Products on the Day of TreatmentWash the area with mild soap and water. Arrive with the skin completely clean and dry.Do not apply deodorant, antiperspirant, lotions, oils, or perfume to the underarm area on the day of your session. These can interfere with the laser or cause adverse reactions.Avoid Sun/Tan❌ NO Intense Sun ExposureStrictly avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least 2 to 4 weeks prior to your appointment. Tanned skin contains more melanin, which makes the laser confuse your skin for the hair, increasing the risk of burns and hyperpigmentation (darkening).This is especially critical in Riyadh's climate. If exposure is unavoidable, wear clothing to cover the area.Stop Active Products❌ NO Harsh SkincareIf you use any strong topical creams (like Retinol, Tretinoin, or Glycolic/Salicylic Acids), stop using them on the underarms for 3-7 days before your session.Avoid harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliants in the area, as they can make your skin more sensitive.🌡️ After Your Laser Hair Removal Session (Post-Care)

The treated area will feel warm and might look like a mild sunburn.⁴ The priority is to cool the skin and avoid heat and friction.⁵

Immediate & Short-Term Care (First 24-48 Hours)Long-Term Care (Between Sessions)Cool the Skin: Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the underarms immediately after the session to reduce heat and swelling.Sun Protection is Mandatory: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (preferably SPF 50+) sunscreen daily on the underarms if they will be exposed to the sun (which is generally rare for this area, but crucial for face/body).Soothe & Hydrate: Apply 100% pure Aloe Vera gel or a recommended calming/repair cream (e.g., Bepanthen) to keep the skin moisturized and calm.Wear Loose Clothing: Continue to wear loose, breathable clothes (cotton is best) to avoid friction on the treated area, which can cause irritation or folliculitis.Avoid Heat & Sweat: Do not take hot showers, visit saunas/steam rooms, or do intense exercise that causes heavy sweating for at least 24-48 hours. The heat can increase inflammation.Avoid Irritants: Do not use chemical exfoliants, rough scrubs, or perfumes on the area for at least 1 week.Avoid Products: Do not apply deodorant or antiperspirant for at least 24 hours post-treatment. Opt for a gentle, all-natural deodorant if needed, but only after the initial 24 hours.Wait for Hair Shedding: The treated hairs will start to shed and fall out about 1 to 3 weeks after your session. This is normal and a sign the treatment worked! You can gently exfoliate a week after the session to help them fall out faster.

Crucial Note for Riyadh's Heat: Be extra mindful of the heat and humidity during the summer months. Excessive sweating immediately after a session can lead to heat rash or breakouts in the sensitive, freshly treated underarm area. Plan to take it easy for the first day.

Would you like me to find the best type of soothing/aloe vera gel recommended by local clinics in Riyadh for post-laser aftercare?