Preparing for Alexandrite, Diode & Nd:YAG Laser Hair Removal: Your 2-4 Week Checklist 💗

Start your prep 2 to 4 weeks before your session to boost results and keep skin calm. Here is a clear checklist that works for alexandrite, diode and Nd:YAG laser, before your first appointment and every one after.

The 2-4 week pause list: what to stop and why

• Put down wax, sugaring and tweezers for at least 3-4 weeks. The laser needs hair in the follicle. You can shave as normal.
• Skip bleaching. Lightened hair is harder for the laser to “see”.
• Manage sun and self-tan. Avoid sunbeds and deliberate tanning for 2-4 weeks. Use SPF 30-50 daily on exposed areas, and stop self-tan 10-14 days before so no residue remains. A fresh tan can increase sensitivity for all lasers, especially alexandrite.
• Pause strong actives. Stop retinoids, AHAs/BHAs and exfoliating scrubs on the treatment area 5-7 days before. Avoid chemical peels and microdermabrasion for 2 weeks.
• Check medicines. Some antibiotics and acne treatments are photosensitising. If you are on isotretinoin, you will usually need to wait before treatment. Bring a list of meds to your appointment.
• Health and skin changes. Tell us about pregnancy, new tattoos on or near the area, recent filler, open cuts or active cold sores.

These steps help the laser reach the root efficiently and reduce side effects, whatever your skin tone or hair type. For a quick overview of how each laser works and the areas we treat, browse our learn more.

7-day to 24-hour countdown: skin and shave prep

• 7 days out: Switch to a simple routine on the area - gentle cleanse and moisturise. Exfoliate lightly 2-3 times this week to reduce ingrowns, then stop 48 hours before.
• 48-24 hours out: Shave the treatment area close to the skin. Use a fresh razor and unscented gel. Rinse with cool water and moisturise after.
  • Face: shave the evening before to avoid daytime redness. Remove makeup fully.
  • Underarms and bikini: shave in the direction of growth to minimise bumps. No deodorant or perfumed products after shaving.
  • Legs and arms: short strokes, minimal pressure. Do not dry shave.
  • Only leave a tiny test patch if your practitioner has asked you to.
• Treatment day: Arrive with clean, dry skin - no makeup, deodorant, oils, fake tan or SPF on the area. Wear loose cotton. Hydrate well and skip heavy workouts, sauna and steam that day.

Not sure which laser suits your skin tone or how to schedule around a holiday tan ☀️? Book a quick chat with a specialist at a love💗epil studio using book a consultation.

Alexandrite, diode or Nd:YAG: what actually changes in prep

• Alexandrite: best on lighter, untanned skin with medium to fine dark hair. Be strict about sun avoidance and self-tan removal.
• Diode: versatile on a wide range of skin tones and hair thickness. Follow the standard shave and skincare pause.
• Nd:YAG: preferred for deeper skin tones and for tanned skin when suitable. Still avoid fresh tans and use high SPF, as recent sun can increase skin reactivity.

In all cases, the basics stay the same: no plucking or waxing between sessions, shave only, keep skin calm and protected, and tell your practitioner about any new meds or skin treatments 💗.

Between sessions and holiday timing

• Sessions are typically spaced 4-8 weeks depending on the area. Keep shaving if needed, but avoid waxing or epilation.
• SPF daily on exposed areas, and reapply if outdoors. If you pick up a noticeable tan, tell us so we can adjust settings or timing.
• Avoid strong exfoliants for a few days after each session, then resume gentle exfoliation to reduce ingrowns.
• Plan around trips: aim for at least 2 weeks tan-free before your next visit and protect skin strictly after.

Ready for smoother, lower-maintenance skin at a love💗epil studio? Reserve your spot today with book now.