Laser Hair Removal and Tanning

Posted Feb 27, 2008

Are you looking to use laser hair removal as a solution for unwanted hair? Laser hair removal is an excellent option in long-lasting or permanent removal of hair on your face or body. It is safe and convenient. Just about everyone can use laser hair removal. But if you tan, you need to be aware that your love of “sun worship” may cause you some challenges with laser hair removal.

When you go for a preliminary consultation, most likely the laser hair removal technician will ask you “Do you tan?” and then they will ask you “How frequently do you tan?” The answer to both of these questions is important in determining your success with laser hair removal. While just about anyone can use laser hair removal, people with darker skin tones and those who tan frequently may find it challenging to use laser hair removal successfully. They may see a significant loss in unwanted hair, such as a 50% loss in unwanted hair. But they may not see a complete loss of unwanted hair in the area. Again, this will depend on the individual and you should consult with your laser hair technician for your own results.

It is important to be honest with your laser hair technician about your history of tanning. Also your history of getting sunburned. Your history of sun exposure is important to know. Your laser hair technician and the laser hair removal center want to assure every chance of success with your laser hair removal. The more information you provide them with, and the more detailed information you provide them with – the more helpful this is. Some individuals with darker or tanned skin may require more sessions than a lighter skinned individual. Your laser hair technician may decide that you require more laser hair removal sessions for potential success.

During your laser hair removal treatments most laser hair technicians and centers will encourage you not to tan. Tanning may affect your results. Your temporary “vacation” from sun worship will help ensure successful laser hair removal results that you will certainly be pleased with. It is important for you to follow directions that you are given by your laser hair removal technician or center, because they give you these directions for a reason. They are dedicated to your success and want to see you remove unwanted hair from your face or body just as much as you do.

Please don’t see tanning as “the enemy” when it comes to laser hair removal. The technology for laser hair removal is changing day by day, literally as we speak. We are fortunate today that so many who were in the past considered to not be candidates for laser hair removal are now considered as candidates. But for now it is important to pay attention to what your laser hair removal technician and center say about tanning during your laser hair removal sessions. It is also important to provide them with your tanning and sun burning history so they have as much information to make an educated decision. This will allow them to create a customized laser hair removal treatment program just for you to ensure as much success as possible.