Can You Have Laser Hair Removal in Summer? When to Start a Course and Which Device to Choose
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair and converted into heat. This damages the structures of the follicle responsible for further hair growth. However, the laser affects only hairs that are in the appropriate growth phase, so one procedure is not enough.
The hair does not disappear immediately after the session: the treated shafts are gradually shed over the following days and weeks. As the course progresses, the amount of hair decreases, while the remaining hairs may grow more slowly and appear finer. The number of procedures and the intervals between them depend on the treatment area, individual hair growth patterns, skin phototype, and skin response.
Blond, gray, and red hair contains little of the target pigment, so it may respond less effectively to laser treatment. With hormonal disorders, new hair may continue to appear, especially on the face. In such cases, the procedure reduces the amount of hair but does not eliminate the cause of its growth.
Why Tanning Increases the Risk of an Adverse Reaction
A tan is an increase in the amount of melanin in the skin in response to ultraviolet radiation. When there is more pigment not only in the hair but also in the epidermis, some of the energy may be absorbed by the surface of the skin. This increases the risk of burns, blisters, and temporary lightening or darkening of the treated area.
This is why laser hair removal is not performed on recently tanned skin or skin with sunburn, tenderness, pronounced redness, or peeling. Self-tanning products also make it difficult to assess the original skin tone correctly. You need to wait not for a formally specified number of days, but until the tan has completely faded and the skin has recovered; the exact timing is determined by the specialist during the examination.
When Is the Best Time to Start a Course?
The best time is a period when you can attend procedures regularly and are not planning intensive sun exposure. Autumn and winter are convenient for treating the legs, arms, and other exposed areas, but it is also possible to start or continue a course in summer if photoprotection measures are followed.
If a beach vacation is approaching, the procedure should not be scheduled immediately before departure. After returning, you need to wait until the tan has faded and the skin has fully settled.
In summer, it is especially important to tell the specialist in advance:
- when you last tanned;
- whether you had a sunburn;
- whether you use self-tanning products;
- whether you are taking antibiotics, retinoids, or other medications;
- whether any rashes, wounds, or irritation have appeared in the treatment area.
Some medications may increase the skin’s sensitivity to light or affect its recovery. You must not discontinue prescribed treatment on your own: the specialist will assess the specific medication and postpone the procedure if necessary.
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal in Summer
- Do not remove hair from the root with wax, sugar paste, an epilator, or tweezers before the session. The laser requires a hair that remains connected to the follicle.
- Shave the area within the timeframe recommended by the specialist. Hair extending above the skin surface does not enhance the result.
- On the day of the procedure, do not apply deodorant, oil, fragranced products, or a rich cream to the treatment area.
- Do not deliberately tan or use a tanning bed or self-tanning products.
- Tell the specialist about any medications, chronic conditions, tendency to scar, and previous reactions to laser treatment.
What to Do After the Procedure
Mild redness and swelling around the follicles may occur immediately after treatment. While the skin is sensitive, it should not be rubbed, exposed to steam, or treated with a scrub. Hot baths, saunas, intensive exercise, and other activities that increase heat and irritation are usually limited for several days; the specialist will provide the exact timeframe.
Exposed areas must be protected with clothing and a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply the product as directed, after swimming, and after heavy sweating. If blisters, increasing pain, weeping, or persistent changes in skin color develop, contact the clinic.
Which Devices Are Used at Medest?
At Medest, laser hair removal is performed with the CANDELA GentleLase Pro and DEKA equipment. GentleLase Pro is an alexandrite laser system with a wavelength of 755 nm. The device and treatment settings should not be chosen solely on the basis of advertising or the level of discomfort: the specialist considers hair color and thickness, skin phototype, tanning, the treatment area, and the skin’s previous response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Laser Hair Removal Be Performed in July and August?
Yes, provided there is no tan or sunburn and the treated area can be protected from ultraviolet radiation. For someone who spends time at the beach every day, it is safer to postpone the procedure.
Can I Go to the Swimming Pool After a Session?
Immediately after the procedure, the swimming pool may further irritate sensitive skin. You can return to swimming once the skin has recovered and within the timeframe specified by the specialist.
What Should I Do with the Hair Between Procedures?
It may be carefully shaved. Waxing, sugaring, epilators, and tweezers remove the hair from the root and interfere with the next laser treatment.
Which Is More Effective in Summer: Laser Hair Removal or IPL Hair Removal?
The method is chosen not according to the season, but according to the skin phototype, hair characteristics, and condition of the skin. Both laser and light-based hair removal require consideration of tanning and photoprotection.
A Medest specialist will assess your skin phototype, skin condition, and travel schedule, and then select the appropriate device and a safe interval between sessions. Book a consultation and laser hair removal in Yerevan to receive an individualized treatment plan.