Pre-Treatment
- Laser hair removal is not effective on blonde, white, gray, or red hair.
If you are unsure whether the treatment area is a good candidate, consult with a Renew provider.
- The treatment area must be clean-shaven at the time of each session.
Shave no more than 24 hours before your appointment.
For bikini treatments, shave in your preferred style.
- Avoid waxing, tweezing, depilatory creams (such as Nair), and epilating for at least 4 weeks before treatment.
- Arrive with clean skin, free of creams, oils, makeup, lotion, or deodorant.
- Patients with abnormal moles or lesions in the treatment area must be cleared by a dermatologist prior to treatment.
- If you have a history of herpes simplex in the treatment area (cold sores or genital), begin antiviral medication 2 days prior and continue 5 days after treatment.
Patients with active infection cannot be treated.
- Avoid Accutane or similar products for at least 6 months before treatment.
- Avoid physical activity that increases body temperature or blood pressure for 2 hours before and after treatment.
- Laser hair removal sessions must be scheduled a minimum of 4 weeks apart.
Adhering to your provider’s recommended schedule is essential for optimal results.
- Avoid the following for 7 days prior to treatment:
- AHA/BHA products
- Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids
- Hydroquinone
- Retinols and retinoids (including Tazorac, Differin)
- Avoid the following for 2 weeks prior to treatment:
- Chemical peels in the treatment area
- Sunburn or extended sun exposure
- Sun-sensitizing antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, Bactrim, Levaquin, Cipro)
- Herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort
- Botox or dermal fillers in the treatment area
Day of Treatment
- You may experience mild discomfort during treatment (such as a warm, pinching, or snapping sensation).
Tylenol may be taken 1 hour before your appointment to reduce discomfort.
Post-Treatment
General Care
- Mild redness, bumps, or swelling in the treated area is normal and may last up to 72 hours.
- Apply cool towels, aloe vera, hydrocortisone, or ice packs to reduce heat or discomfort.
- If symptoms persist beyond 72 hours or if you experience complications such as burns or blisters, contact Renew.
First Week
- Avoid extended UV exposure for at least 7 days.
- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, preferably zinc-based.
We recommend EltaMD, available in-office.
- Do not pick, scratch, or irritate the treated area.
After 7 Days
- Hair shedding typically begins between days 7–14.
- Begin gentle exfoliation on day 7 to encourage shedding and prevent ingrown hairs.
