If I remove my bikini hair can I tan as the area will be mostly covered?

Question

And am I able to swim after treatment? I’m considering laser hair removal for my bikini area and it’s summer time now.

Paul Flashner, MD · Answer

Hello! Laser Hair Removal can not be administered safely to people with any sun exposure, and it is not recommended to sun tan after a treatment. Our protocol for our patients states that you should avoid sun exposure on the treated areas for at least two weeks post treatment. This is because the laser makes your skin more susceptible to sun burns and further skin damage. If you must be in the sun, we advise that you use at least SPF 50 or higher on the exposed areas, and cover the skin with protective clothing/ a hat/ sunglasses when applicable. Furthermore, swimming is okay, however we recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours post treatment.

Kian Karimi, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally, I recommend that you avoid sun exposure to the area and swimming for about 24 hours. If you plan to tan after your treatment, covering the area and applying sunscreen is always recommended. Laser hair removal will take about 6-8 sessions spaced approximately 6 weeks apart, so keep this in mind when scheduling your swimming days! Going forward, I would complete multiple in office consultations with board certified experts to discuss if you are an ideal candidate for laser hair removal.
Best of luck!
Kian Karimi MD, FACS

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to laser hair removal. It is important to refrain from direct sun exposure during laser treatments. Treatment areas should be covered and an SPF is always advised. Swimming can be resumed 24-48 hrs after treatment. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

you can go swimming a day after laser hair removal I just have people cover the area and use sunprotection. I find that adding vivatia foam helps the healing proess and prevents hyperpigmentation, we love isdin tintned sunscreen as well (see link to emeragecosmetics.com).  Best, Dr. Emer.

Susan Fox, DO, RPVI · Answer

Hello, we never recommend swimming for at least 24 hours after treatment.  After that as long as your skin hasn't had any adverse reactions to the laser you should be fine to swim.  Sun exposure should be avoided during laser treatments.  Be sure to keep the area being treated covered and wear an spf anytime you will be in the sun.

Vibha Gambhir, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You should avoid swimming the day of your treatment but can swim the following day as long as you keep the area protected from the sun. A lot of laser hair machines target the pigment in the hair follicle so as you become tanner throughout the summer it is advised to avoid doing more treatments. This is because the darker/tanner your skin becomes the laser will target that pigment and could result in burns of your skin. As always, consult with your doctor first and let them know if you have been tanning or using self-tanners. Hope this helps!

Russell S. Gornichec, MD · Answer

Great Question
Using light energy (lasers/IPL) for skin and hair removal treatments will make the area treated more sensitive to UV radiation and damages caused by sunlight (also true for certain medications). It is okay to swim after treatments but please keep the area covered or apply sunblock to the area frequently (it will usually wash off with water from swimming). Also remember that as your skin darkens, then more of the light energy is transferred to the skin surface making you more susceptible to skin injuries (burns). This also applies to spray tanning in most cases. Let your provider know if you are a darker tone with each visit so they can adjust appropriately.
Hope that answers your question

If I remove my bikini hair can I tan as the area will be mostly covered?

Answers (7)

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