how to remove dead hair after laser - #16893
I am really worried about the results from my recent laser hair removal treatments. After my sessions, I noticed that i have a lot of dead hair still stuck in my skin, and I am not sure how to remove dead hair after laser! The laser tech told me some shedding is normal, but this feels like way more than just shedding. Like, around my legs and bikini area, there's all this hair that looks dead but won’t come out. I tried exfoliating gently like they suggested, but it's not working! It's hard to tell if I'm doing it right or if it can cause any irritation. I mean, is it typical for some of the hair to get stuck like this? How to remove dead hair after laser without making it worse? I feel like with every shower, I'm just seeing more and more of it, and it's super frustrating! I read somewhere that scrubbing can help, but I’m scared that might damage my skin. And what about products? There’s just so much confusing info online about how to remove dead hair after laser. Did I do something wrong, or is this just part of the process? Any guidance would really help, thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
After laser hair removal, it’s indeed common to notice some hair left in the skin, as these are actually hairs that were treated but need time to shed naturally. This process, known as ‘shedding,’ can last a couple of weeks post-treatment. The key here is patience and gentle care to avoid irritating your skin. First, gentle exfoliation is generally recommended to encourage shedding, but it’s crucial to be gentle to avoid skin irritation. Opt for mild exfoliators like a soft washcloth or a scrub designed for sensitive skin; just use it a few times a week. Make sure you’re not using a loofah or anything too abrasive, which could indeed damage your skin, especially in sensitive areas like the bikini line. Moisturize regularly to keep your skin hydrated, as healthy skin can more readily release dead hair. When it comes to products, steer clear of anything with harsh chemicals or perfumes that might irritate your recently treated skin; instead, go for hypoallergenic or dermatologist-recommended options. Hair removal creams, for example, should be avoided until your skin has fully healed. Avoid hot showers right after treatment, as heat can aggravate the skin. If your skin feels itchy or irritated after exfoliating, ease up on exfoliation and ensure you’re using a moisturizer that soothes. It’s normal to feel a bit anxious about the shedding, but remember it’s part of the process. Should the hairs not shed naturally after a few weeks or you experience any unusual skin reactions, it’s best to check back with your laser technician or a dermatologist to ensure everything is progressing as it should. They may provide specific suggestions or interventions to assist with the removal process.
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