How Long After Laser Hair Removal Can I Tan?

After a laser hair removal procedure it is recommended that you avoid sun and UV exposure at all costs. This can be difficult to adhere to, especially during the summer. However, generally speaking, it is strongly recommended that you wait at least two weeks post-treatment before exposing yourself to strong UV rays, whether from the sun or a tanning bed.

Sensitive skin

Laser hair removal is designed to reduce hair growth by targeting the hair follicle with high-intensity light. The energy from the light damages the hair follicle but the lasers used are designed and calibrated to not target or damage the surrounding skin. Your skin will incredibly sensitive following a laser hair removal procedure and UV rays on the lasered skin can be very damaging and even cause adverse and unpleasant reactions.

Adverse reactions

These reactions include hyperpigmentation, burns and can even permanent scars. If you really need a tanned look, consider purchasing a spray-on tanning product that will give you the effect. If you are prone to hyperpigmentation, you will want to avoid strong sun exposure for a good six months following the procedure.

Case-by-case

Keeping these guidelines in mind, it does depend on what part of the body the procedure was performed on. If it was done on your back, legs, face, chest or any other areas that would receive direct, unmitigated UV exposure if you were to spend a considerable amount of time in the sun, waiting the recommended amount of time is highly advisable.

If, for instance, the procedure was performed on an area of the body where sun exposure is less likely to be an issue (for example: underarms, buttocks or the bikini area), as long as you can make sure those areas aren’t receiving intense sun exposure, it should be ok to resume activities in the sun as normal.

Laser hair removal is a very common and generally uncomplicated procedure. It is performed all the time, all over the world and is great for getting rid of unwanted body hair. It’s a great alternative for people who are over the time and money spent shaving and waxing. As long as care is taken to avoid UV exposure after the procedure, it should be a complete success.