In summer, the days are long and hot, which encourages us to stay outdoors. At that time, we want to look our best: to have smooth, sun-kissed skin that can be uncovered by wearing short pants and dresses. But does body depilation go hand in hand with tanning? What if we want to get rid of hair permanently, and at the same time not give up being in the sun? Below we answer your questions about laser hair removal and tanning.
Laser depilation (epilation) – what does the procedure consist of?
Laser epilation, known by some as laser hair removal, is a convenient alternative to traditional hair removal (with a razor, wax or epilator). The unique advantage of this method is that after a series of treatments we get rid of up to 100% of unwanted hair permanently. The laser is an extremely versatile device – with its help we can smooth virtually any part of the body: legs, armpits, face or abdomen. Bikini laser hair removal is also very popular (not only among ladies). Men are eager to undergo hair removal from the back and torso, as well as the ears, neck and buttocks. The effects are visible after the first session of laser therapy, but a series of 4-6 treatments should be performed for full smoothing.
Before laser hair removal is performed, a cosmetology consultation is conducted. At this stage, the patient’s expectations are established, as well as the parameters of his skin and hair. The choice of the specific device to be used for the procedure depends primarily on the thickness of the hair and its pigmentation. At Beauty Skin clinic in Warsaw, laser hair removal is performed with the following equipment:
- Thunder MT – a device that combines 3 technologies for satisfactory results even with the most demanding hair types and skin complexions;
- GentleLase – a gentle laser with an advanced skin cooling system for ultimate comfort during treatment; ideal for epilation of delicate skin on the face and intimate areas;
- Vectus – designed primarily for brunettes – the best solution for people whose hair pigmentation differs significantly from their skin tone;
- Motus – is primarily used to remove fine and light hair, and is great for epilation in blondes.
A single laser therapy session lasts from a few to several dozen minutes, depending on the area of skin to be epilated. The treatments are performed at intervals of several weeks (depending on the cosmetologist’s recommendations), and the effects of the full treatment last even for the rest of the patient’s life.
Is laser epilation a contraindication to tanning?
Like any cosmetic procedure, laser hair removal comes with a number of recommendations and contraindications. Both before and after hair removal, sun exposure should be avoided (this includes UV lamps used in tanning beds, for example). It is also necessary to use photoprotection in the form of creams with SPF 50. A strong or fresh tan may disqualify you from laser hair removal due to the risk of burns. However, this is a temporary contraindication, and epilation itself, carried out in a professional manner, allows us to achieve results that will stay with us for the rest of our lives.
Laser depilation – what else is worth knowing?
Laser epilation is not a painful procedure, although highly sensitive individuals may experience some discomfort during and immediately after the procedure. This makes it all the more advisable to avoid stimuli that irritate the skin: UV rays, aggressive skin care (e.g. acids, mechanical peels) or overheating the body, such as when using a sauna. Possible side effects of laser therapy, such as swelling, redness or (occurring less frequently) folliculitis, subside on their own, although if there is a lot of discomfort, you can opt for specialized soothing preparations.