A little prep. A smoother appointment.

4 to 6 weeks before

Do not wax, tweeze, sugar or thread the treatment area. Laser needs the hair roots in place. Keep avoiding these methods throughout your treatment series.

10 days before

Avoid tanning, tanning beds, self-tanner, spray tans and tanning lotions.

Prickly does not perform treatment within 10 days of taking photosensitizing medications, such as certain antibiotics. Tell us about all medications. Do not stop prescribed medication to keep an appointment. Contact us to arrange your treatment timing.

7 days before

Avoid sun exposure on the treatment area. Tell us about any recent tan or sunburn. Protect exposed skin with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.

5 days before

Stop retinol products and other topical creams on the treatment area. Contact us about your products and check with your prescriber before pausing a prescribed cream.

3 days before, if needed

If you are prone to cold sores or herpes outbreaks, arrange your prescribed antiviral plan. Prickly’s instructions require antiviral medication 3 days before and 3 days after treatment for clients who need this prevention.

Before your appointment

Closely shave the treatment area before your appointment. Exfoliate before treatment as directed in your Prickly care instructions.

Your aftercare starts as soon as treatment ends. Follow the timeline below to keep your skin comfortable and protected.

Avoid workouts, hot showers, jacuzzis, saunas or anything that heats up your skin for the first 24 hours. Temporary redness, tenderness and swelling around the hair follicles are the most common side effects. A cool compress helps mild discomfort.

Do not exfoliate for the first 48 hours. After that, gently exfoliate every 2 to 3 days once your skin has settled. Do not exfoliate irritated skin.

Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 7 days after treatment, and longer if your skin has not returned to normal. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin and keep protecting the area from the sun between sessions.

If you need cold sore or herpes prevention, complete your prescribed antiviral plan, including the 3 days after treatment specified in Prickly’s instructions.

Do not wax, tweeze, sugar or thread the treatment area during your series. Shave only after your skin has settled, and closely shave before your next appointment.

Treated hair sheds over the next few weeks after treatment, not immediately or within days. Do not pull it out. Appointments are spaced 4 to 12 weeks apart, depending on the area. Follow the timing your technician recommends.

Text or call 512-540-5498 with questions about preparation, medications or caring for your skin. Follow the instructions provided for your treatment. Contact us promptly for blistering, significant pain or worsening symptoms. Seek medical care for severe symptoms or signs of infection.