Laser Hair Removal in the Summer?

Dr. Irwin
June 12, 2009

Laser hair removal – is it safe in the summer?

In my opinion, generally no or only with caution.

As many of you know, most hair removal lasers work best when the color of the hair is darker than the skin. If you are getting even a little darker in the summer from tanning, then it changes the laser settings. If your laser provider is experienced and careful, you hopefully won’t burn. But if they aren’t, you risk blisters which can rarely turn into scars. Also, it’s best to stay out of the sun after laser hair removal treatments, and that’s hard to do when all your friends are outdoors wanting to play

If the area you are treating is the armpit, then you’re probably fine (hopefully no sun there), but on the legs for sure, face, and even the bikini line, exposure to sun will make the laser hair removal treatment riskier. There is one laser which is safer on darker or tanned skin. The neodynium:YAG laser. It may be safer in the summer, but check with your laser provider first to be sure.

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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