What is an important consideration for patients before undergoing laser hair removal?

Patients should not have tanned skin before undergoing laser hair removal because the laser targets the pigment in the hair. If the skin is tanned, it can absorb more of the laser energy, which may lead to increased risk of side effects such as burns or discoloration of the skin. A lighter skin tone allows for better contrast between the hair and skin, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment and minimizing potential complications.

This consideration is vital for the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. It is crucial for patients to be properly informed about how to prepare their skin for treatment, which includes avoiding tanning through sun exposure, tanning beds, or self-tanning products in the weeks leading up to the session.