Can I IPL before or after tanning?

General information only: this page is not medical advice. Talk to a qualified clinician or dermatologist about your own situation before using IPL.

In most circumstances, the best advice for individuals who are preparing to have laser hair treatment is to avoid sunbathing or tanning as much as possible.

If you have a suntan, talk to your practitioner in advance before having treatment, as treatment may need to be postponed.

 

The first thing to remember is that everyone's skin is different, and when exposed to sunlight, it will respond differently.

That's why it's crucial to talk over your treatment options with your practitioner in advance, as they'll be able to tell you what's best for your hair and skin type.

Lasers and IPL won't be able to discern the difference between your skin and the pigmentation if you have a tan.

 

It will stop the energy from penetrating deep into the skin to target the brown spots, instead of focusing on your skin.

Similarly, before the light from the Laser Hair Removal can penetrate deep enough to reach the hair follicle, it must first be absorbed by your skin.

This could not only obstruct your progress, but it could also be harmful.

 

Procedures on tanned skin can increase the risk of burns, since darker skin retains heat for longer than lighter skin.

It can also cause blisters and skin hypo/hyperpigmentation.

It's crucial to understand that, in the eyes of the laser and IPL, artificial tans are the same as sun tanning.

 

If you know you'll be tanning or spending time in the sun, it's recommended to wait 4-6 weeks before having treatment to ensure the tan is gone.

It can make a difference even if your tan is barely apparent. When having an IPL or Laser Hair Removal operation, self-tanners, lotions, sprays, or simply being in the sun can be detrimental.

 

When your practitioner asks if you have a tan or if you've spent any time in the sun, always tell the truth.

All in all, 1 week before your procedure, sunbathing, sunbeds, and self-tanning products should be avoided to avoid skin sensitivity, as treatment on tanned skin may need to be postponed.

Immediately following your treatment and over the next two days, Sunbathing, sunbeds, and self-tanning creams should all be avoided.

When you go out, use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Make sure you use a product that protects you from both UVA and UVB radiation.

This article was written by practitioner and skincare specialist Faiy. 

 

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