Why You Should Never Get Laser Treatment Over Self-Tanner

That sun-kissed glow may look great, but it can make laser treatments unsafe.

Whether you are coming in for laser hair removal, pigmentation treatment, vascular treatment, or another laser service, your skin needs to be free of recent tanning and self-tanner before treatment.

Why does self-tanner matter?

Most self-tanners contain DHA, which temporarily darkens the outer layer of the skin. Although a self-tan is not the same as a UV tan, it can still change the way laser energy interacts with your skin.

Lasers target pigment. When the skin itself has additional pigment or appears significantly darker than its natural tone, the laser may be absorbed by the surrounding skin rather than primarily targeting the intended treatment area.

This can increase the risk of:

• Burns or blistering

• Excessive redness and irritation

• Hyperpigmentation or dark spots

• Hypopigmentation or light spots

• Prolonged healing

• Less predictable treatment results

What counts as self-tanner?

This includes spray tans, tanning mousse, tanning lotions, tanning drops, bronzing products, and other products designed to temporarily darken the skin.

If you've recently used self-tanner, please let us know before your appointment. Depending on the treatment and the condition of your skin, we may need to reschedule your appointment until the tan has completely faded.

At Modern Aesthetics, we would always rather postpone a treatment than compromise your skin's safety.

For the safest and most effective laser treatment, come to your appointment with your skin at its natural, untanned color.