Laser hair removal has created a massive buzz in the beauty world over the past few years, and for good reasons, too. Not only does it save time and money in the long run compared to shaving and waxing, but laser hair removal also results in permanent hair reduction of up to 80 percent after a series of treatments. Plus, you can get it done almost anywhere on the body, and it’s safe and effective on all skin types. What’s not to love?
So, when should you start laser hair removal? While it’s safe to get laser hair removal year round, many find that the best time to begin laser hair removal treatments is in the fall. That’s because sun exposure and laser hair removal don’t mix well together. How come? Lasers used in laser hair removal can’t tell the difference between the pigment in the hair follicle and pigment from a tan, which could potentially cause hyperpigmentation after a treatment. Since you’re less likely to have a tan during the fall months, it’s the perfect opportunity to get laser hair removal done.
What’s more, laser hair removal requires multiple treatments that are spaced six to eight weeks apart. If you wait until the end of spring or the beginning of summer to start laser hair removal treatments, there’s a good chance that there won’t be enough time before summer’s over to complete all of them. This means you won’t have completely smooth skin when it’s prime bikini season. September is an especially good time to start laser hair removal since it can take up to nine months to complete a series of treatments, right in time for summer.
Need another reason to undergo laser hair removal as the weather is turning cooler? Your skin is sensitive to sun exposure after each treatment. Those receiving laser hair removal should wait for a minimum of three days after their last session before prolonged direct sun exposure to prevent irritation and possible side effects from occurring. And you should continue wearing SPF daily to protect your skin against the sun, regardless of the season.
Lastly, while you’re undergoing laser hair removal treatments, you might notice that your hair temporarily grows back patchier. You can easily hide your arms and legs with cozy, cute sweaters and pants in the fall!
Bottom line: Start laser hair removal NOW
Since most need to undergo a series of laser hair removal treatments spaced six to eight weeks apart, the best time to start laser hair removal is in September, when the leaves start changing color. If you begin laser hair removal in early fall, you’ll be ready for bikini season when summer finally rolls around.
Interested in learning more about laser hair removal? Then check out LaserAway, the nation’s leading provider of aesthetic dermatological services, where all treatments are performed by registered nurses, physician’s assistants, and nurse practitioners.
References
1. “Comparing Traditional and in Motion Nd:YAG Laser in Hair Removal: A Prospective Study,” Medicina, September 2, 2022.
2. “Everything You Need to Know About Laser Hair Removal,” Elle, October 19, 2018.
3. “Laser Hair Removal: 12 Things You Need to Know Before Having the Treatment,” Cosmopolitan, June 16, 2019.
