If you’ve read anything about laser hair removal (LHR), you’ve likely stumbled upon information about avoiding treatment during the summer.
What you read likely isn’t true. The fact is you can have this procedure anytime, but you need to be careful.
Let’s answer, “Can I do laser hair removal in the summer?” Before you schedule your appointment, read this so you know what’s fact and fiction.
Take Time to Prepare Your Skin for Laser Hair Removal
This is a process you should begin about two weeks before you start your treatment plan. While it isn’t difficult to do, prepping your skin is going to make a big difference in your experience and results.
Follow these three steps to prepare for laser hair removal:
- Put down the tweezer and wax. Your hair root needs to be intact for treatment to work. Even minimal touch-ups between sessions can disrupt the hair growth cycle necessary for effective treatment. Opt for shaving between sessions.
- Shave before your appointment. To prepare for your session, make sure to shave the area within 24 hours beforehand, leaving just enough hair below the skin’s surface for the laser to target the follicles effectively.
- Be mindful of medications. Certain medications can either interfere with laser hair removal or make your skin more sensitive during the treatment. Inform your provider about the medicines and supplements you take and follow their advice about what to stop or adjust them.
Avoiding the Sun Really Is a Rule
It’s actually not negotiable if you want to stay safe. Untanned skin that has been protected from the sun for a few weeks before treatment is best. Doing this not only ensures the best outcome but also prevents permanent skin damage.
Avoid sun exposure and tanning two weeks before and after your sessions. The sun increases skin sensitivity to heat, and using a laser on heat-sensitive skin can lead to hyperpigmentation, burns, or scarring.
Areas That Are Frequently Exposed to the Sun Should Be Protected
This is simply good advice all year round whether you have laser hair removal or not, and you should never leave the house without sunscreen. Areas such as your face, arms, legs, and toes are especially vulnerable to harmful UV rays, both natural and artificial. Keep them covered!
UVB rays affect the top layer of the skin, while UVA rays penetrate even deeper. When you shower after being in the sun, you might notice a darker appearance as you exfoliate the top layers, revealing the deeper, darker skin affected by UVA rays.
Your skin might not look burned or tanned to the naked eye so be cautious. You get a lot more sun than you think you do.
In the Summer, Certain Areas Are Better for Laser Hair Removal
During the summer, there are certain areas where you should avoid getting LHR due to sun exposure. However, there are a few spots that are consistently shielded from the sun, making them ideal for summer treatments.
Underarm areas are protected by your arms and rarely see direct sunlight, making it a year-round safe option. The bikini area can also be treated, since it is typically covered.
Wear Sunscreen
This has been mentioned before, but it can’t be said enough. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is the ideal addition to your beauty regime. If you’re not in the habit of wearing it daily, now is a great time to start.
Use a broad spectrum SPF that guards against UVA and UVB rays daily, even on overcast or less sun-exposed days. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you have dry skin, use aloe vera or a fragrance-free lotion to keep your skin well-hydrated.
Follow Laser Hair Removal Aftercare Instructions Carefully and Let Your Skin Heal
After laser hair removal, your pores are open and your skin becomes more vulnerable to infection. The answer to your question, “Can I do laser hair removal in the summer,” comes down to common sense. Proper aftercare and taking precautions is the key.
Avoid activities like going to the gym, sauna, jacuzzi, and swimming for at least two days. After this period, it’s safe to resume exercising and sweating.
Refrain from exfoliating your skin for at least five days after the treatment to give your skin ample time to heal. Put aside shower loofahs, sponges, and body scrubs until your skin has fully recovered.
Don’t try to schedule your sessions too soon. You’re eager for amazing results, but think of it like this. Your doctor gives you a prescription for medication. Some people believe if they double up on the dose, they’ll feel better quicker. This is only not true, but it’s dangerous.
The same applies to laser hair removal. Multiple sessions scheduled too quickly are dangerous and can cause permanent damage. Be patient and allow your skin to heal properly.
Need More Details Regarding, “Can I Do Laser Hair Removal in the Summer?” Let the Experts at Prolase Medispa Help!
We take pride in providing fully customizable laser hair removal treatments using only cutting-edge technology. Our top priorities are your safety and delivering incredible results.
Summertime is your time, and we understand you want to show off beautiful, smooth skin. We can help you prepare for your vacation so you achieve incredible LHR results!
When you contact us at 703-747-9443 to book your consultation, don’t forget to ask about our money-saving special offers.
