Extra sun exposure can leave skin dry and dehydrated, making it more vulnerable to laser treatment and increasing its risk of hyperpigmentation.
As part of any comprehensive skincare regime, using sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays on all areas of the body is paramount – particularly before engaging in any laser hair removal procedures. Apply a thick layer of SPF before beginning laser hair removal sessions for maximum protection from these harmful rays.
1. Hyperpigmentation
Laser hair removal works by subjecting skin to concentrated beams of light energy that transform into heat when they hit pigmented hair follicles, which then destroy them and stop future hair growth. After laser treatments it’s important to limit sun exposure for various reasons: sun damage may lead to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, burns, scarring and skin cancer–just to name a few consequences!
Hyperpigmentation after laser hair removal often occurs because people continue to expose their skin to UV rays long after treatment has ended, exposing the pigment cells again and stimulating production of melanin which leads to discoloration or even blotches on their skin.
Sun protection following laser hair removal and sunscreen usage is of utmost importance, even during overcast days. Always apply an SPF 30+ broad spectrum SPF on overcast days!
If you plan on going under for laser hair removal soon, it is wise to remain out of direct sunlight for 72 hours prior to any appointments. Even though your skin may appear normal when exposed to direct sunlight, its cells may still be highly sensitive to heat; this makes laser treatments even more dangerous when combined with this dangerous heat source. It should always be avoided at all costs!
Continued sun exposure after laser hair removal poses another potential threat: impeding its healing process. If damaged areas reopen, treatment of them can become difficult resulting in uneven results and further complications.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), one of the most frequently seen side effects of laser hair removal, occurs from inflammation and swelling caused by the procedure itself. While PIH usually lasts only temporarily cosmetically, in severe cases it may require strong skin lightening creams like Cosmelan or chemical peels to correct. Therefore, it’s crucial that you choose an experienced medical provider such as New York’s Dr. Green to perform your laser hair removal sessions and provide personalized recommendations tailored specifically to your skin type.
2. Burns
As laser hair removal makes your skin extra sensitive to UV rays, it is advised that you avoid exposure for two weeks prior and after any session in order to prevent burns and hyper-pigmentation side effects.
However, too soon after laser hair removal is still a risk. To protect against burns after laser hair removal treatments and ensure optimal healing time for your skin, swimming and water sports should be avoided for the first 24-48 hours post treatment. This will give the body time to adapt.
If you plan on going swimming, make sure that you wear waterproof sunscreen with an SPF factor of 50+ and is designed specifically for use on the face. Furthermore, wear a hat and cover any exposed skin areas with clothing if possible.
Though you might be tempted to plan a quick summer vacation after receiving laser hair removal treatments, it is wiser to save them for winter or another season when sunlight exposure will not be so intense.
Prior to receiving laser hair removal treatment, it is advisable to avoid the use of self-tanning products or bleaching creams that contain melanin as this could interfere with its ability to target hair follicles efficiently. In addition, other forms of hair removal such as plucking, waxing and electrolysis should also be avoided as these may disrupt follicles.
Select an establishment regulated by a professional body to ensure they adhere to stringent safety standards and have the proper equipment and personnel available to carry out safe treatments. Furthermore, avoid wearing jewelry or clothing that could become damaged by laser light during appointments to maximize effectiveness of treatment; doing so also helps ensure laser beam can focus on unwanted hair without interference from skin surface or clothing and ultimately produce a more efficient treatment experience. Try not touching treated skin as much during and after laser hair removal sessions for best results.
3. Scarring
At first, laser treatments may take several weeks for an area to heal properly, during which period direct sunlight should be avoided as much as possible and sunscreen with high SPF should be regularly reapplied over the treated area. A wide-brimmed hat and long sleeves may also help shield skin.
One of the greatest risks of sun exposure after laser hair removal is scarring. If too much sun exposure reaches exposed skin areas, they can form hypertrophic or even keloid scars which require medical intervention to treat.
As with any procedure, to reduce scarring from laser hair removal it is essential that all pre and post treatment instructions are strictly observed. This will help ensure positive outcomes from treatment; tanning beds and other methods used for hair removal such as shaving should be avoided before beginning, as they can agitate follicles and lead to unwanted results.
Furthermore, exfoliation should be practiced on a regular basis in combination with gentle moisturizer. Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells that clog up pores, helping prevent future hyperpigmentation or acne breakouts.
After laser hair removal, it is not advised to participate in water sports such as surfing and swimming for 24-48 hours as contact with water can result in rashes and itching on sensitive skin.
Even though some rules regarding safe sun exposure after laser hair removal may seem counterintuitive, they should still be followed for optimal safety. Limiting sun exposure before and after laser hair removal appointments will not only protect your skin from sun damage but will also yield optimal results! Wear broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen frequently. Also keep an eye out for cute summer hats and sunglasses; the ideal accessories to help ensure safe summer sunning!
4. Skin Cancer
Skin cancer after laser hair removal is extremely unlikely; however, if performed incorrectly or the patient fails to take proper aftercare measures. Sun exposure after the session increases your risk of this form of disease significantly.
After your laser hair removal treatment, it is vitally important that you utilize a broad spectrum sunscreen. This will protect your skin from harmful UV rays which may lead to hyperpigmentation, burns and scarring.
Wear a hat and long-sleeved shirt when heading outdoors; this will help prevent any pigment changes caused by laser treatment from leaving lingering pigmentation changes that might otherwise cause scabbing.
As with other areas, your body should also use sunscreen regularly – both treated and non-treated – especially those areas exposed to direct sunlight, including your face, neck and shoulders. When selecting an SPF-rich product it’s even more essential.
If you are concerned about potential sun exposure after laser hair removal, it would be prudent to speak to your physician. They can provide more details about laser hair removal treatments as well as provide advice for protecting the skin before and after treatments.
Sometimes it may be beneficial to schedule laser hair removal sessions during winter or other times when sun exposure will be reduced. Tanning beds also can have harmful side effects like discoloration, irritation and blisters which should be avoided at all costs.
