How to Prep Your Skin Before a Laser Session
Laser treatments have become a go-to option for addressing a variety of skin concerns—from acne scars and pigmentation to fine lines and unwanted hair. However, to get the best results and minimize risks, proper preparation before your laser session is essential.
At Bad Skin, located in downtown Redwood City inside Sola Salons, we provide expert laser treatments customized to your skin’s needs. We serve clients across the Bay Area, including San Mateo, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, San Jose, Fremont, Burlingame, Menlo Park, Santa Clara, Cupertino, San Carlos, Belmont, Foster City, Hayward, Millbrae, Daly City, South San Francisco, Los Altos, Union City, and more.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the important steps to prepare your skin before your laser appointment so you can get safe and effective results.
Why Is Skin Prep Important?
Laser treatments work by targeting specific layers of the skin or hair follicles using focused light energy. If your skin isn’t properly prepped, you increase the risk of side effects like burns, hyperpigmentation, or poor results.
Proper preparation ensures:
Skin is calm and hydrated
Sun damage or tanning is minimized
Skin is free of products that could interfere with laser energy
Your skin’s natural healing response is optimized
Step 1: Avoid Sun Exposure
Sun exposure before your laser session is one of the most critical things to avoid. Tanned or sunburned skin is more sensitive and prone to adverse reactions.
Stay out of direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.
Wear hats and protective clothing when outdoors.
Step 2: Stop Using Certain Skincare Products
Some skincare ingredients increase photosensitivity or skin irritation and should be paused before laser treatment:
Retinoids and Retinols: Stop using 5-7 days prior.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Avoid for 3-5 days.
Exfoliants or scrubs: Avoid for at least 3 days.
Other irritants or active ingredients: Like benzoyl peroxide or vitamin C, check with your provider.
Step 3: Avoid Waxing, Tweezing, or Bleaching Hair
If you’re having laser hair removal, do not wax, tweeze, or bleach the area for at least 4 weeks before your session. The laser targets hair follicles, and removing hair from the root will reduce effectiveness.
You can shave the area 24-48 hours before treatment as shaving leaves hair shafts intact for the laser to target.
Step 4: Keep Your Skin Clean and Hydrated
Cleanse your skin gently on the day of treatment.
Avoid heavy creams, makeup, or deodorants on the treatment area.
Stay hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment to promote skin healing.
Step 5: Discuss Your Medical History and Medications
Inform your provider about any medications you’re taking, skin conditions, or recent procedures. Some medications can increase photosensitivity or interfere with healing.
Step 6: Follow Your Provider’s Specific Instructions
Every laser type and skin condition may require tailored prep. At Bad Skin, we provide clear pre-treatment guidelines based on your personalized treatment plan.
