When Should I Get Laser Hair Removal?

*Article updated September 2023

Fall Is The Best Time To Get The Best Results

When it comes to laser treatments, the sun is not your friend!

Your skin is left in a sensitive state after a laser hair reduction treatment, making you more susceptible to sunburns, sunspots and other types of damage.

For the sake of convenience, aesthetics, and your skin’s health, we typically advise patients to hold off on getting laser hair reduction until the fall, which is the best possible time to get laser hair reduction.

To help you time your treatments right, we have compiled a number of additional considerations to make before booking your first laser hair reduction treatment this fall.

The Risks Of Summer Sun Damage

Laser hair reduction is designed to rid a specific area of hair while also limiting regrowth and making it easier to manage when it does start to grow back. Because your skin is in a vulnerable state after being exposed to the high-powered laser, it is essential to follow all instructions given to you by your provider.

The number one rule to follow? Use proper sun protection. If you go outside, make sure the area is covered and apply sunscreen every two hours for additional protection. You should avoid direct sun exposure for about 3-4 weeks after treatment.

Tans Prevent Effectiveness

The Forever BARE BBL hair reduction laser targets brown and black pigment of the hair follicles. Because of this, we advise that you do not have tan skin when going in for your laser treatment. The laser may pick up on the extra melanin of your skin and mistake it for unwanted hair. Even sunless tanning products will cause the same issue.

Your skin should be free of any kind of tan when getting any laser treatment or the area will be at risk of developing hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and sunburns.

It Takes Multiple Sessions, Which Can Be Done In Fall and Winter

What To Expect After Your Treatment

After your treatments, you’ll see redness and the area may feel a little warm. The redness should go away 24 hours after treatment. There aren’t any activity restrictions after laser hair reduction; however, depending on the area and your skin sensitivity, you may want to take it easy after your first few treatments to see how your skin reacts.

Proper Aftercare Is A Must 

No matter the season, precautions must be taken to ensure skin safety and meaningful results. Wearing sunscreen is a must before and after laser treatments. You should avoid direct sun exposure for about a month after a laser treatment. If you go outside, cover the area and reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Do not pluck hair or wax in between treatments. The laser must locate the follicle in order to be effective. You should also limit retinol use and exfoliation. Proper care instructions will be provided to you during your appointment.

Your Laser Hair Removal Experts In Columbus, Ohio

We understand that aesthetic treatments are an investment, so we want you to see the very best results from yours. That’s why our team of Columbus, Ohio laser hair removal experts will give you all the information you need upfront to decide when you move forward with your plan.

Schedule to meet with Paige, Stacie or Adrienne to learn about laser therapy treatments and develop the right aesthetic plan for you!

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About The Author

Paige Brudzinksi, RN is an experienced laser therapy expert at Donaldson Plastic Surgery. Over the course of her career, she has helped hundreds of satisfied patients prepare for their laser hair removal treatment and fully recover while maintaining their excellent results. She continues to provide education for individuals across the United States who may be interested in laser hair removal as a cosmetic solution.