Why is it important to avoid tanning before laser hair removal?

Avoiding tanning before laser hair removal is crucial because tanned skin is typically darker and can absorb more light energy during the laser treatment. This increased absorption can raise the risk of burns or damages to the skin, as the laser targets the pigment in the hair follicles. If the skin is already tanned, there is a greater chance that the laser will affect the surrounding skin tissue rather than just the hair follicles, which can lead to adverse effects, including irritation, blistering, or even scarring.

Additionally, a tan can interfere with the laser's ability to effectively target the hair follicles, leading to suboptimal results. Therefore, ensuring that the skin is in its natural state enhances both the safety and effectiveness of the laser hair removal process.