Preparing properly before your laser hair removal session is essential for achieving safe, effective results. The Cynosure Elite iQ works by targeting pigment within the hair follicle, so the condition of your skin and hair at the time of treatment directly affects your outcome.
Use this guide to ensure your skin is ready for your appointment.

DO / Recommendations Before Laser Hair Removal

✔ Shave the Area 12–48 Hours Before Your Session

The laser targets the pigment inside the hair follicle, not the visible hair above the surface. Shaving 1–2 days before the appointment ensures the follicle is intact while preventing excess surface hair from causing heat on the skin.

✔ Keep Skin Clean & Dry

On the day of treatment, the skin must be completely free of:

• makeup
• lotions or creams
• deodorant
• body oils
• perfume

Clean, dry skin allows the laser to penetrate efficiently and reduces the risk of irritation.

✔ Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing

Especially for treated areas such as the legs, underarms, and bikini line, loose clothing helps reduce friction, heat buildup, and post-treatment discomfort.

✔ Inform Your Clinician of Any Changes

Let your provider know about:

• recent tanning or sun exposure
• sunburn or skin irritation
• new medications (e.g., antibiotics, acne treatments, isotretinoin, photosensitizing meds)
• hormonal changes or medical conditions

This allows your technician to adjust laser settings for maximum safety and comfort.

DON’T / Avoid Before Laser Hair Removal

✘ Avoid All Root Hair Removal for 3–6 Weeks

Do not wax, tweeze, sugar, epilate, or use depilatory creams.
These remove the root—and the laser needs the follicle present to work.

✘ Avoid Sun Exposure & Tanning for 2–4 Weeks

• No direct sun
• No tanning beds
• No self-tanners

Tanned or darkened skin increases the risk of burns, pigment changes, and discomfort.

✘ Avoid Skin-Irritating Products for 3–7 Days

Stop using:

• AHA/BHA exfoliants
• Retinol or retinoids
• Chemical peels
• Strong scrubs

These products make the skin more sensitive to heat and light.

Quick Pre-Treatment Checklist

✔ Shave 12–48 hours before your procedure
✔ No waxing, tweezing, epilator, or depilatory creams for 3–6 weeks
✔ Avoid sun, tanning beds, and self-tanner for 2–4 weeks
✔ Arrive with clean, product-free skin
✔ Stop harsh or exfoliating products 3–7 days prior
✔ Wear loose, comfortable clothing

FAQ: Common Questions Before Laser Hair Removal

1. What should you do before laser hair removal?

Before your session, shave 12–48 hours beforehand, avoid sun exposure, stop root hair removal, keep your skin product-free, pause irritating skincare, and notify your clinician of any recent changes or medications.

2. What happens if I shave 2 hours before laser?

Shaving immediately before treatment may cause:

• increased sensitivity
• razor irritation
• more discomfort during the session

While treatment may still be possible, the ideal shaving window is the night before.

3. What can I take to make laser hair removal less painful?

You may use:

• ibuprofen or acetaminophen before your session (if suitable for your health)
• clinic-approved numbing cream applied 30–60 minutes beforehand

Avoid aspirin unless directed by a physician.

4. Can I shower right before laser hair removal?

Yes. You can shower as long as you:

• avoid very hot water
• do not exfoliate
• keep the skin clean and completely dry afterward
• do not apply lotions, deodorant, perfume, or oils

Related Resource: Laser Hair Removal Aftercare

For guidance on how to care for your skin after treatment, read our full aftercare guide here:
👉 Laser Hair Removal Aftercare (Cynosure Elite iQ)

Conclusion

Preparing your skin properly before laser hair removal ensures a safer treatment, better comfort, and faster long-term results. Following these simple guidelines shaving at the right time, avoiding sun exposure, skipping root hair removal, and keeping your skin clean allows the Cynosure Elite iQ laser to work at its highest effectiveness. Combine these steps with proper aftercare, and you’ll experience smoother skin and more consistent results throughout your treatment journey.