Can I Go To The Beach After Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal helps you achieve smooth, beautiful skin that you can be proud to show off, and one of the places you might want to flaunt your smooth skin is at the beach!
You might be tempted to head straight to the beach after laser hair removal, but you need to just be wary of how the sun might affect your skin.
Can I go to the beach after laser hair removal?
It is best to avoid going to the beach straight after laser hair removal, as your skin will likely be sensitive and need time to heal. Exposing your freshly lasered skin to the sun can cause damage and burning; it is best to wait a while first.
To get the most out of your laser hair removal and to care for your skin as best as possible, allow sufficient time for your skin to heal and protect it from sun damage.
Read on to find out about how to better care for your skin after laser hair removal.
Can You Tan After Laser Hair Removal?
Everyone’s skin will react differently to laser hair removal, but the truth is that it leaves the skin sensitive, and the skin does need time to recover before being exposed to UV rays.
As your skin will be sensitive after laser hair removal, it is at a higher risk of burning or irritation when exposed to the sun.
For this reason, it is best to avoid tanning for a few days after laser hair removal and to avoid exposure to the sun, such as going to the beach.
How Long After Laser Hair Removal Can I Tan?
Your laser hair removal specialist will be able to provide guidance on how long to wait before tanning or spending extended time in the sun after the procedure. It is essential to follow this advice.
The general rule is to wait at least two weeks after laser hair removal before attempting to tan.
It takes some time for your skin to heal after the procedure, and it will likely remain very sensitive to the sun, even if it doesn’t feel as sensitive normally.
Laser hair removal can also cause more problems in the sun when performed on sensitive skin, as UV exposure can lead to severe sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and even scarring.
You might be tempted to tan your newly smooth legs, but the damage you cause might not be worth it.
It’s perhaps best not to have laser hair removal done in summer if you don’t think you can avoid tanning or sun exposure for this long.
How Long After Laser Hair Removal Can I Visit The Beach?
You should be able to visit the beach sooner than you would be able to tan after laser hair removal, as long as you are only spending a short amount of time in the sun.
You can probably go to the beach a week after laser hair removal, but just keep in mind that not only will the sun make your skin sensitive, but the sand will as well, and it can cause quite a bit of irritation, too.
If you do end up at the beach around a week after having laser hair removal done, use a beach umbrella to limit sun exposure, and sit on a blanket to avoid direct contact with the sand.
Precautions To Take In The Sun After Laser Hair Removal
Sometimes, you cannot avoid being in the sun, and if you have just had laser hair removal done and plan to be in the sun, there are some precautions you can take to minimize sensitivity and damage.
Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen will be your best friend in protecting your skin from sun damage after laser hair removal.
Use a strong sunscreen, such as SPF 50, to provide your skin with the best possible protection.
The higher the sunscreen, the better it will reduce any sensitivity on your skin.
Wear Protective Clothing
Along with sunscreen, you can wear protective clothing to further shelter your skin.
Sunscreen does a great job at preventing sunburn, but the heat from the sun can still cause sensitivity.
Protective clothing, such as loose-fitting pants, will help keep direct sunlight off your skin and therefore reduce the likelihood of experiencing any sensitivity.
Use An Umbrella
To protect yourself even further, use a beach umbrella or a standard umbrella when spending time in the sun.
This, along with protective clothing and sunscreen, will significantly enhance the protection your skin receives.
Best Sunscreen After Laser Hair Removal
Choosing the right sunscreen to use after laser hair removal is so important.
You want to choose a sunscreen that offers sufficient protection for your skin, while also being suitable for sensitive skin, so that it won’t cause any further irritation.
Here are two great sunscreens to use after laser hair removal:
For the body:
Banana Boat Mineral Enriched Sunscreen Sensitive Skin
The Banana Boat Mineral Enriched Sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin and is also hypoallergenic.
It has been formulated with naturally sourced zinc and was designed specifically for sensitive skin, making it ideal for individuals who have undergone laser hair removal.
It offers broad-spectrum coverage, protecting your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
It is also water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so there is little chance it will wash away.
To ensure no further irritation is experienced, this formula is lightweight and non-greasy, free from parabens, oils, and fragrances. The formula is also reef-friendly!
For the face:
If you have had laser hair removal done on your face, you may want to use a sunscreen specifically designed for facial use.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face Serum
The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face Serum provides high SPF 60 protection, offering hydration throughout the day.
It is non-comedogenic and non-greasy, making it ideal for use on your face without causing added irritation or sensitivity.
The soft and weightless hydration it offers remains water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can make the most of your time in the sun.
Sun Exposure Before Laser Hair Removal
It is essential to avoid the sun after undergoing hair laser removal, but it is equally important to protect yourself from the sun before.
You should limit sun exposure as much as possible before undergoing the procedure and avoid spending time in the sun tanning.
If you weren’t able to avoid going into the sun, then it would be best to have a test patch done at least 48 hours before the laser hair removal appointment. This will give you a good idea of how laser hair removal will affect your skin.
Do I Need To Exfoliate After Laser Hair Removal?
Most laser hair removal technicians will advise you to exfoliate your skin up to three times a week after the procedure, but you should wait at least three days before the first exfoliation to give your skin time to recover.
Exfoliation can help your skin recover from laser hair removal, providing better results, and it helps prevent ingrown hairs.
Can I Go To The Beach After Laser Hair Removal?
After undergoing laser hair removal, it is best to wait approximately two weeks before attempting to tan your skin.
Your skin will need time to recover from the treatment, and exposure to the sun too soon can cause sensitivity and sunburn.
If you are just going out into the sun for a short period, you can do so a week after the laser hair removal, but be sure to use a high-factor sunscreen and wear protective clothing whenever possible.
To give your skin the best chance to recover, and to ensure that you get the best results from the laser hair removal, avoid too much tanning straight away!
Related Questions
Can I swim after laser hair removal?
You can swim after laser hair removal, but it’s recommended to wait between 24 and 48 hours before doing so.
How long after laser hair removal can I shower?
You should avoid showering for 48 hours after laser hair removal, as exposing your skin to heat can cause irritation.
You can take a lukewarm or cool shower instead, which will not cause irritation or sensitivity.
Can I shave between laser hair removal treatments?
You will need to speak to your technician about this, but generally, it is fine to shave between each session.
You will likely not need to shave as much as you normally do, but you may still need to shave every few weeks.
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