Can You Tan After Laser Hair Removal?

Tanning After Laser Hair Removal — What You Need to Know

Want to ditch shaving or waxing for good? Laser hair removal is a superior choice when it comes to getting rid of unwanted hair — after a series of treatments, you can expect permanent hair reduction by up to 80%. As you get ready for your laser hair removal sessions, here’s something you might be wondering about: Can you soak up some sun afterward? Knowing the dos and don’ts of tanning after zapping away those hairs is key to keeping your skin looking and feeling great. 

How Long After Laser Hair Removal Can You Tan?

After your laser hair removal session, it’s super important to give your skin some extra TLC. Since your skin will be extra sensitive to sunlight, it’s a good idea to steer clear of all tanning—yes, that means no sunbathing or hopping into a tanning bed—for at least three days post-treatment. This little break can really help you dodge any annoying issues like dark spots or irritation while your skin is on the mend.

What Happens if You Go in the Sun After Laser?

Hitting the sun right after your laser treatment can be a bit of a no-no. Since the treatment targets the melanin (that’s the pigment) in your hair follicles, your skin’s own melanin gets a bit sensitive too. This means you could end up with a sunburn or even some unwanted color changes in your skin if you’re not careful. Plus, soaking up those rays could mess with the effectiveness of your treatment and up your chances for some complications. It’s best to shade yourself and keep cool to protect that fresh treatment.

Does Laser Hair Removal Make It Harder to Tan?

Laser hair removal won’t make tanning tougher, but you will need to lay low from the sun for a bit while you’re following the aftercare steps. Once your skin’s all healed up and your medical provider says it’s cool, you can get back to your tanning routine. Just don’t forget to slather on a high-SPF sunscreen. Your skin might still be a bit sensitive to the sun’s rays even after it’s healed. Better safe than sorry!

Can I Go to the Beach After Laser Hair Removal?

Who doesn’t love a beach day, right? But hold off on diving into those waves just yet. The beach means a whole lot of sun, and the water and sand can really ramp up that exposure, putting your freshly treated skin at risk. Give it at least three days post-treatment, or until your skin’s totally healed before you head back to the beach. Trust us, it’s worth the wait!

After-Care for Laser Hair Removal

Taking care of your skin after laser hair removal is super important if you want the best results and healthy skin. So, let’s walk through what you should do after your treatment:

• Avoid Sun Exposure: As stated, keep the treated area away from direct sunlight for at least three days post-treatment. If you need to be outdoors, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Stay Cool: Avoid hot baths, saunas, and excessive exercise for 24 to 48 hours after treatment, as heat can irritate the treated skin.
• Gentle Skin Care: Use gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products to avoid clogging pores and causing irritation. Avoid any products with harsh chemicals, perfumes, or dyes.
• Avoid Other Hair Removal Methods: Do not pluck, wax, or bleach the treated area. If necessary, you can shave after the initial 24-hour period post-treatment.

For a complete guide on post-laser hair removal care, be sure to visit our post-care page.

When It Comes to LHR, Proper Aftercare is Super Important

Laser hair removal can really change the game if you’re tired of dealing with unwanted hair. But remember, when it comes to tanning afterward, you’ve got to think it through. Keeping your skin shielded from the sun after your treatment isn’t just about making sure you get the best results—it’s also about keeping your skin healthy and beautiful. Always stick to the guidelines your treatment provider gives you, and if you’re ever unsure, choose to protect your skin over catching some rays. Stay skin-safe, and you’ll keep enjoying those smooth, stunning results for way longer!

Want to learn more about laser hair removal? Reach out to one of our treatment specialists here. 

References

1. “Comparing Traditional and in Motion Nd:YAG Laser in Hair Removal: A Prospective Study,” Medicina, September 2, 2022.