If you’ve ever had a laser hair removal treatment, then you know spending time in the sun before and after your appointment is a major no-no. It’s the cardinal rule of laser hair removal that, in turn, has perpetuated a myth that it can’t or shouldn’t be done in the summer. Although it is extremely important to limit direct sun exposure before going under the laser, the idea that it isn’t safe in the sunny summer months simply isn’t true.
This is one instruction that isn’t optional. “ Lasering” skin that has been shielded from the sun for a few weeks is best. Not only are you going to see the best results, but you’ll also avoid permanent damage to your skin. Avoid sun exposure and tanning two weeks before and two weeks after a laser hair removal treatment. The problem is the sun makes skin more sensitive to heat and using a laser on heat sensitive skin can cause hyper-pigmentation (skin becomes darker) , cause burns and even scarring. But that doesn’t mean all laser services need to be avoided in the summer.
In the summer, you should not laser the face or any other areas that are prone to sun exposure, such as the arms, legs, fingers and toes. This is extremely important because even if those skin areas do not look tan to the naked eye, the exposure to UVB and UVA rays are still active. UVB rays affect the top layer of skin, and UVA rays go even deeper. Have you ever showered after being in the sun and then you think you look darker? It’s because you’re exfoliating the top layers off, revealing the deeper, darker skin that the UVA rays altered.
While there are many areas you should avoid for laser hair removal during the summer there’s also a few that are consistently shielded from the sun that make them prime spots for summer laser hair removal treatments. The underarm area is protected by the arm and doesn’t see direct sunlight, so this is an area you can target year-round without worry. The bikini area can obviously be treated because, we wear pants! Kristin at Defy Nature uses the Gentle Max System that is safe and effective for underarms and bikini areas!
Sunscreen is an imperative element for everyday skincare even if you aren’t undergoing laser hair removal, but if you elect to have the treatment done, it’s absolutely necessary. Applying a broad spectrum SPF that protects against both UVA and UVB rays daily — even on an overcast day or a day when you don’t expect to spend a lot of time outside. Defy Nature loves water resistant Replenix Sheer Physical Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 free of chemical stabilizers. You’re better off safe than sorry! And if after laser hair removal you experience routine dry skin, keep your skin hydrated with Replenix Green Tea Moisturizer.
Because laser hair removal opens your pores, your skin will be extra vulnerable and susceptible to infection following a treatment, so you’ll want to take certain precautions while waiting for your skin to heal. It’s important to avoid going to the gym, sauna, jacuzzi or swimming in the ocean or pool for at least two days. After that point, it’s safe to exercise and get your sweat on. It’s also important to refrain from exfoliating your skin for at least five days following a treatment. So toss those shower loofahs, sponges and body scrubs to the side until your skin has enough time to heal.
