What to Know About Getting Laser Hair Removal in the Summer

Can you safely get laser hair removal in the summer?

Absolutely—but you’ll need to be more mindful of your sun exposure and skincare routine.

At CLEO Skin + Laser, we treat clients all year long, including throughout the warmer months when tank tops, swimsuits, and shorts make smooth, hair-free skin even more of a priority. The key to getting great results in the summer is understanding how laser works—and how to protect your skin before and after each session - especially when your out on the lake in Minneapolis.

Here’s everything you need to know if you’re thinking about starting (or continuing) laser hair removal during the sunny season.

☀️ Why Summer Raises Questions

Laser hair removal works by targeting pigment in the hair follicle. The laser distinguishes between the darker pigment of the hair and the lighter pigment of the skin.

So if your skin is recently tanned—whether from the sun, a tanning bed, or self-tanner—it can confuse the laser and lead to:

• Less effective results
• Increased risk of burns or hyperpigmentation
• Skin irritation or sensitivity

That’s why sun protection is non-negotiable in summer.

✅ How to Protect Your Skin (and Your Results)

Getting laser in summer is totally doable—as long as you follow a few key rules:

1. Avoid Tanning

Try to keep the treatment area out of direct sunlight for 7–10 days before and after your session. If you’re going outside, cover up and apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+—and reapply every 2 hours.

2. Skip Self-Tanner

Self-tanning products can stain the surface of your skin, interfering with laser accuracy and potentially causing irritation. Avoid them for 2+ weeks before your appointment.

3. Stick to the Schedule

Laser hair removal works best when done consistently—usually every 4–6 weeks. Don’t skip your sessions just because it’s summer; instead, take the right precautions and keep the momentum going.

4. Treat Low-Exposure Areas

Summer is a great time to treat underarms, bikini line, back, or stomach—areas that tend to be easier to keep covered. You can always start with these and move to more exposed areas in fall or winter.

🌡️ What to Expect After Your Session

Post-treatment, your skin may feel slightly warm, sensitive, or look a little red. This is normal and usually subsides within a few hours. For the first 24–48 hours, we recommend:

• Avoiding hot tubs, saunas, or intense workouts
• Skipping exfoliants or active skincare on the treated area
• Keeping the area clean and protected from the sun

✨ Bonus: Summer Is Actually a Great Time to Start

While many people assume fall or winter is the best time to begin, starting in summer means you’ll already be halfway to smooth skin by next season. And with CLEO’s ND:YAG laser, we’re able to treat all skin tones safely year-round, including during the peak of summer.

Final Thoughts

Getting laser hair removal in the summer is 100% safe—as long as you take care of your skin. At CLEO Skin + Laser, we’ll guide you every step of the way, from consultation to aftercare, so you can feel confident, smooth, and sun-smart all season long.

📍Book a free consultation at our Edina or Maple Grove studios

📞 Call us at (952) 666-1105

💻 Book online and say goodbye to shaving—summer included.