Laser Hair Removal on Sun-Tanned & Fake-Tanned Skin in Melbourne: Is It Safe?
Melbourne isn’t a city with endless summer — which is exactly why we make the most of it when it arrives. As soon as the sun’s out, we’re outdoors, travelling, soaking up warmth wherever we can. Then come the long cooler months, where natural colour fades and many of us turn to fake tan to feel bronzed year-round.
Traditionally, tanning — whether from the sun or a bottle — meant putting laser hair removal on hold. But with advanced laser technologies now available, that’s no longer the case.
At Skin by Shiba, laser hair removal can be performed safely and comfortably on sun-tanned and fake-tanned skin, without compromising results.
Can You Have Laser Hair Removal on Tanned Skin?
Yes. With advanced laser technology, laser hair removal can now be safely performed on tanned skin.
We use SHR (Super Hair Removal) technology, which delivers energy gradually rather than in harsh single pulses. This allows treatments to remain controlled, comfortable, and adaptable to different skin tones — including skin that has been exposed to the sun.
This technology makes laser hair removal far more flexible and suitable for real Melbourne lifestyles, where avoiding sun exposure for months simply isn’t realistic.
Laser Hair Removal & Fake Tan: What You Should Know
Fake tan does not automatically exclude you from laser hair removal anymore.
The key consideration is timing and preparation, not whether you fake tan at all. While fake tan won’t affect the laser’s ability to treat the hair follicle, freshly applied or unwashed tan may:
Appear patchy after treatment
Lighten or fade unevenly in treated areas
For best results, we recommend attending your appointment after fake tan has been washed off, even if it’s just one day old. This ensures your tan stays even and your skin is clean for treatment.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe After Sun Exposure?
Yes - laser hair removal can still be performed after sun exposure.
We simply ask that you:
Avoid direct sun exposure for 24 hours before and after treatment
Ensure the skin is not sunburnt, peeling, blistered or irritated
As long as the skin is healthy and intact, treatments can proceed safely. Your practitioner will always assess your skin on the day and adjust settings as needed.
Preparing for Your Appointment if You’re Tanned
If you’re sun-tanned:
Ensure your skin is not burnt, peeling, blistered or irritated
Avoid direct sun exposure for 24 hours before and after treatment
If you use fake tan:
Make sure your tan has been washed off prior to your appointment
Fresh, unwashed tan won’t affect the treatment itself, but may cause the tan to fade or appear patchy during the session
You can attend your appointment from day one of fake tan, as long as it’s been rinsed off.
