Laser Hair Removal Instructions and Contraindications

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Laser Hair Removal is completed in a series of treatments for best results. The number of treatments depends on each individual skin type and hair follicle. Overall, clients can expect to have anywhere from 6-12 treatments space approximately 4-6 weeks apart (depending on the body part being treated), however many have seen great success in as little as 4 treatments. Certain medical conditions and medications can affect one's ability to have laser hair removal done.  As laser works via pigment absorption, it will not be effective for those wanting to target blonde, red, white or grey hairs unless the root of the follicle is a darker pigment. It is absolutely imperative to follow the Pre and Post treatment care guidelines in order to avoid any complications, and also to ensure you have the greatest hair removal success! It is important to note that if you have had any recent sun exposure or have used pigmented tanning creams, you cannot have laser done for a minimum of 4 weeks due to the potential for burns or blisters. See below for more information on Pre and Post laser care instructions and Contraindications (criteria that may make you ineligible for laser treatments). For more information on Laser Hair Removal click HERE.

1. Shave the area one day prior or on the same day as the treatment. There is no need for letting hair grow out between sessions. Shaving can be done as needed. 

2. No waxing, bleaching, threading, tweezing, sugaring, epilating, or use of any chemical depilatories on the area 4 weeks prior to the laser appointment, and while undergoing the treatment sessions. 

3. No perfume, lotion or cologne on the treatment area prior to procedure

4. Remove make up before the procedure

5. Do not tan or expose the treated area to sun 4 weeks prior to procedure; No tanning lotions 3-4 weeks prior to procedure.

6. Do not use skin irritants (retinol/glycolic/lactic/benzoyl peroxide) on area to be treated for at least 3 days prior to procedure; for prescription creams (ie. Retin A), stop using 2 weeks prior to treatment. 

7. Use sunscreen, minimum SPF 30, prior to laser treatments. 

1. Treated areas may be tender, slightly red or swollen. This usually appears within hours of treatment. If redness or swelling occurs, apply a cold towel or compress for 15 minutes per hour and re-apply as needed. Hydrocortisone (purchased in ointment or cream form OTC) can also be applied to decrease symptoms. No exposure to sunlight for 1-2 days. Use sunblock (SPF 30 or more) and reapply every 2 hours.

2. Blisters may occur in sensitive areas such as bikini line or neck. Should this occur, an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin can be applied twice daily until healed.

3. Scabbing, crusting or oozing may occur within 1-3 days. Do not pick or remove; do not shave the area. Apply Vitamin E or Aloe to keep the area moist. 

4. No deodorants, perfumes, perfumed lotion, cologne or any cream that may irritate the treatment area for 1-2 days. 

5. No strenuous exercise that causes excessive sweating for 1-2 days.

6. No hot bath/swimming pool for 1-2 days; you may shower the day of the Laser treatment. The area should be washed gently with cool to warm water and mild soap or cleanser. Pat dry, do not rub. 

7. Avoid make-up until site is healed. 

8. Avoid direct sun and sun bed tanning for course of treatments and for the month following final treatment. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 minimum daily to exposed areas. 

9. Skin Type IV-VI should continue to use a lightening/brightening agent such as Vitamin C if used prior to treatment.

10. Pigmentation change (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation) may occur. Changes typically normalize within a few weeks. 

11. Once the hair gently pushes itself out of the skin, you may shave the area to help the process. You may experience itching and prickling when this occurs.

· Accutane (Must be completed Accutane for at least 1 year.)

· Hypersensitive Skin- Patch Test required
Skin Types I-III, complete a patch test and check within 30mins-2 hours for reaction.
Skin Types IV-VI. Complete patch test and check within 24-48 hours for reaction.

· Pregnancy

· Breast Feeding (suggested to wait 6 months post breast feeding)

· Skin Cancer/ Cancer

· Herpes Simplex (Type I & II) - may need anti-viral medication and/or doctors consent prior to appointment 

· Tattoo’s and Permanent Makeup on treatment area (must cover or avoid with laser)

· Photosensitizing Medication

· Surgery 

· Tanned Skin (Or any UV ray exposure), Tanning creams> (BOTH MUST WAIT MIN. 4 WEEKS)

· Large Blackheads

· Prone to keloid scarring

· Inflammatory or certain autoimmune diseases (Lupus, Uncontrolled Diabetes- must obtain medical clearance)

· Advanced Rosacea- Type IV

· Vitiligo

· Open lesions

· Thyroid disorders (obtain medical consent)

· Brain damage/Epilepsy (If easily triggered by flashing light)

·  Radiation or Chemotherapy

·  Children (Dependent on age and treatment- must obtain parent/guardian consent)

·  If unsure, please contact your medical doctor prior to receiving treatmen