If you’re thinking about starting laser hair removal, you may be wondering whether there is a best time of year to begin treatment. At Revive Laser, this is one of the most common questions we hear during our consultations.
In Calgary, our summers are short, and it’s understandable that you want to enjoy the sunshine while it’s here. However, sun exposure is an important consideration when planning laser hair removal treatments.
Why Sun Exposure Matters During Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal works by targeting pigment in the hair follicle. When your skin has recently been exposed to UV rays, melanin production in the skin can increase, even if you don’t have an obvious tan.
Treating recently tanned, sunburned, or significantly sun-exposed skin can increase the risk of unwanted skin reactions, including temporary changes in pigmentation and, in some cases, burns or other skin damage.
For this reason, we carefully consider recent sun exposure before performing a laser hair removal treatment.
Can You Get Laser Hair Removal During the Summer?
For many clients, laser hair removal can continue throughout the year, including during the summer. The key is protecting the treatment area from significant UV exposure and avoiding treatment when the skin is recently tanned or sunburned.
Some areas of the body are naturally easier to protect from the sun. Areas such as the underarms, Brazilian area, and buttocks are typically covered and may be easier to treat throughout the year.
For areas that receive more regular sun exposure, such as the legs, arms, face, or other exposed areas, additional precautions may be necessary.
What We Consider Before Your Treatment
When determining whether it is appropriate to treat an area, your Revive Laser technician may ask questions such as:
- Do you regularly use mineral SPF on the treatment area?
- How much time do you spend outdoors with the area exposed?
- Has the area been recently tanned or sunburned?
- Does your skin tend to tan easily, or are you more likely to burn?
- Are your hobbies, travel plans, or outdoor activities likely to increase your sun exposure?
Your answers help us determine the safest treatment schedule for your individual skin and lifestyle.
Is Fall a Good Time to Start Laser Hair Removal?
For many Calgary clients, fall can be an excellent time to begin laser hair removal, particularly when treating areas that are frequently exposed during the summer.
As temperatures cool, we naturally spend more time covered and typically receive less direct sun exposure. Beginning in the fall can also allow you to complete multiple treatments during the cooler months.
However, that doesn’t mean you necessarily need to wait until fall. If you’re diligent about sun protection and the treatment area has not been recently tanned or sunburned, you may be able to begin or continue treatment at other times of the year.
If you enjoy tanning or know that consistent sun protection will be difficult during the summer, waiting until fall may be the better option.
When Is the Best Time for You to Start?
There isn’t one answer that applies to everyone. The best time to start laser hair removal depends on the area you want treated, your skin, your sun exposure, your lifestyle, and your ability to protect the area between treatments.
That’s why we recommend discussing your plans with an experienced laser technician rather than choosing a treatment schedule based solely on the season.
Contact Revive Laser in Calgary
Not sure whether now is the right time to begin laser hair removal? Revive Laser offers consultations to help you determine a treatment plan based on your skin, treatment area, lifestyle, and goals. Our experienced technicians can answer your questions about sun exposure, treatment timing, and what to expect throughout the process.
Contact Revive Laser in Calgary to schedule your consultation and find out when laser hair removal makes the most sense for you.