Why is it not recommended to tan during laser hair removal?

Contrary to popular belief, tanning during laser hair removal is not entirely off-limits, but it comes with a few important considerations. When you tan, your skin produces more melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. Laser hair removal targets the melanin in the hair follicles, making it challenging for the laser to differentiate between the hair and the darker skin. This can result in potential complications such as skin burning, skin discoloration, and even unwanted lightening of the hair. It’s worth noting that laser hair removal is typically less effective on gray, blonde, or red hair, regardless of tanning.

At Dermamode, we utilize advanced laser technology with adjustable settings specifically designed to accommodate darker skin types. While it is possible to undergo laser hair removal with a tan, the treatment settings need to be adjusted to account for the closer color match between the skin and the targeted pigment. Consequently, this may require scheduling additional sessions to ensure all hair is effectively removed. Moreover, different body parts may have varying levels of sun exposure, so our technicians might need to adapt the laser settings accordingly. Whether you appear tanned or not, it’s important to remember that your skin can become more sensitive to heat, even without visible signs, so it’s advisable to avoid sun exposure 72 hours before your laser treatment.

Following the laser hair removal procedure, it is crucial to avoid sun exposure for a minimum of 7-10 days. Failure to do so can lead to pigment-related issues in the treated areas, as well as other undesirable effects like heat rash. Your skin becomes more susceptible to sunburns after the treatment, necessitating careful protection. Wearing appropriate clothing and cover-ups, along with a sunscreen offering at least SPF 30, is highly recommended.

Our recommendation is to postpone tanning until you have completed the hair removal process. If you have already tanned, it is not a major concern, but we strongly advise minimizing sun exposure in the weeks leading up to your appointment for optimal results. Additionally, it is crucial to inform your technician about any recent sun exposure, enabling them to tailor your treatment accordingly.