Can I Sunbathe Before or After Laser Hair Removal? Factors to Consider.

"Can I sunbathe before or after laser hair removal?" is one of the most popular questions specialists receive about this modern treatment. Since most people want to get rid of unwanted body hair so they can wear more revealing clothing, it's important to know how laser-treated skin will react to sun exposure.

Everyone has different skin sensitivity. A doctor will be able to provide the best advice for what's appropriate for your skin and hair type. With their professional assessment, and experience with hundred of patients, they'll know how sunbathing will affected you both before and after treatment.

Sunbathing before Laser Hair Removal

It used to be true that sun tanning was discouraged before going under the laser. The early equipment was only designed for people with fair skin and dark hair to ensure the light energy was directed to the hair follicles. However, the technology has progressed in recent years.

A new laser for hair removal has been developed to avoid affecting the top layers of skin, where the skin pigment is located, and to reach down deep in the hair follicle to 'zap' the hair-producing cells.

The good news is the that newer lasers can now work on darker and tanned skin tones without causing burns or blisters. Avoid sun bleaching hair since laser hair removal still isn't effective on grey, blonde, or red hair.

The bad news is that these lasers are more expensive and not wide spread yet. Even though the technology is available, these machines are not as common in clinics and salons.

Sunbathing After Laser Treatment

Laser hair removal usually requires a multiple treatments to achieve smooth skin. Clinicians usually recommend to avoid sun tanning so the same laser can be used throughout the duration of the procedure.

But if it's impossible to avoid the sun between treatments, try using a beach umbrella or seek a nice shady spot to minimize tanning.

Once the patient finishes all of the sesssions, it's can be tempting to show off the newly-smooth skin. However, the skin will be sensitive as the hair follicles recover, regardless of the type of laser used. The amount of time to avoid direct sunlight will depend on your skin type.

If you can't avoid being in the sun, then follow the same precautionary measures as before:

• Limit the exposure to direct sunlight as much as possible.

• Find a sunscreen that is comfortable for your skin. It should have a high enough SPF sun block rating to avoid sunburn.

• Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts & pants that won't chafe or irritate the recovering skin. There is even sun protective clothing available that gives the great protection without having to wear sunscreen.

Tips on Laser Hair Removal and Sunbathing

• Ask your clinician to see a color chart of skin tones for which the laser is good for. If, after tanning, your tone cross the range, then you'll need to be upgraded to the new laser.

• Inquire if there's an additional charge for using the new laser.

• Assuming you've found a clinic that has the latest technology, inform the clinic ahead of time that you'll be getting a sun tan.

• Remember that some body parts receive more sun exposure than others, such as the arms and neck, and you may need to use both types of equipment.

• Ask your dermatologist or clinician whether you can sunbathe before and after laser hair removal - make sure to ask well in advance of your big vacation or big event! This will help them schedule the multiple treatments with a long enough recovery period just in time for you to show off your smooth skin.

Please also remember that prolonged sun exposure can be detrimental to the health of your skin. Skin cancers are not uncommon. Talk to your doctor.