We find that many people start thinking about hair removal as summer approaches, as they start to prepare to wear lighter clothing, and spend more time outdoors, perhaps on a beach or swimming.
Laser hair removal can be performed at any time of the year, but there are actually compelling reasons why you might want to have the procedure done during the winter months. Most of the reasons revolve around limiting one’s exposure to direct sunlight before and after having the procedure, but there are a surprising number of factors involved.
Also, bear in mind that several laser hair removal procedures will normally be required, with individual treatments separated by several weeks. Starting the process in the winter allows you time to complete the process by the time summer rolls around.
Sun Exposure Complicates the Procedure
The Laser hair removal procedure works best when there’s the greatest possible contrast between the color of your skin and that of your hair. Laser hair removal works by focusing high-intensity light energy onto the melanin pigment found inside individual hair follicles while avoiding damage to the surrounding skin cells. This is easier to achieve when your skin is as pale as possible.
Exposure to intense sunlight will result both in your skin becoming darker and your hair becoming lighter, both of which complicate the task of focusing the maximum amount of light energy onto the hair follicles and the minimum amount into the adjacent skin. We spend less time exposed to sunlight during the winter, both as a result of wearing more protective clothing but also because sunlight is generally much less intense during this time of the year. UV radiation is particularly damaging to the skin and occurs at its greatest levels in the summer.
Easier Preparation
Your practitioner will advise you to avoid direct sunlight for several weeks before a laser hair removal appointment, which can be quite hard for many people to do. You’ll have a much easier time avoiding the sun if it’s not shining as much!
Minimize Side Effects Afterwards
Your practitioner will also recommend avoiding strong heat and sunlight for several weeks after treatment. There’s a greater chance of side effects like blisters or even burns if you’re exposed to intense sunlight immediately after a laser hair removal procedure – especially as the laser treatments render your skin more easily damaged by sunlight until it’s had a chance to recover from the procedure. Obviously, it’s far easier to avoid this problem during the winter months, when sunlight is generally lower intensity.
Your Laser Skin Care
Your Laser Skin Care practitioners are medically qualified and highly experienced in performing laser hair removal. We can provide expert advice on the best techniques to address your particular concerns and will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about our procedures. We also have extensive experience with a wide variety of non-invasive cosmetic procedures and can help you choose the safest, most effective, and most cost-effective way to achieve your cosmetic goals. Call us at (323) 525-1516 to schedule a free consultation, or visit us online for more information.
