Spring is here, and after a long cold winter, people are ready for some warmth. For many people, that means finally addressing the unwanted body hair they let grow in over winter. Laser hair removal is the best option out there for people wanting permanent silky smooth skin.
It makes sense that people want to show off their new hair-free skin, but there are some important things people should know about tanning and laser hair removal first.
Laser Hair Removal and Sun Tanning
Sun tanning is the most classic way of getting golden skin. Who hasn’t enjoyed a warm day lounging under the sun, preferably by a lake, pool or ocean? Unfortunately, if you’ve recently gotten laser hair removal you may want to stay out of the sun. Skin is highly sensitive after treatment, which means UV rays can do extra damage. People who aren’t careful often end up with hyperpigmentation in the areas they just treated.
Laser Hair Removal and Spray Tanning
Spray tanning has become a popular alternative to sun tanning because it doesn’t require us to expose our skin to harmful UV rays. Make sure you don’t spray tan before a laser hair removal appointment though. Laser hair removal works by using a laser that targets the pigments in your hair follicles. This treatment works best on lighter skin and darker hair. If you tan your skin ahead of time the treatment may be less effective. It could also cause hyperpigmentation, redness, or even burns due to the unnaturally darker skin.
Laser Hair Removal and Tanning Beds
Tanning beds were huge a few years ago. A person lies down in a bed with a lid surrounded by UV lights to tan the skin without sun exposure. Just as with sun tanning and spray tanning, tanning beds can impact laser hair removal treatments. It’s recommended to wait at least two weeks after a hair removal treatment to use a tanning bed, and not use one for at least four weeks before an appointment.
Laser Hair Removal and Self-Tanner
Self-tanner is a great option for people that don’t want to pay for professional tanning services or expose their skin to the sun. Self-tanner is usually a lotion or oil that is rubbed over the skin to make it more golden. Although this tanning option is less intense and permanent than other ones, it’s still best to avoid before a laser hair removal appointment.
If you have any more questions about tanning and laser hair removal, feel free to contact us! Here at AFYA, for safety and effectiveness, we recommend clients avoid all tanning methods before and after a laser hair removal appointment.
