Laser treatments are safe for most people, but certain conditions and medications can make them unsuitable. Learn who should avoid laser procedures and what precautions to take before treatment to ensure safety, comfort and the best possible results.
Who Should Avoid Laser Treatments
Laser treatments are effective and safe when performed correctly, but certain health conditions or medications can increase risks. Always disclose your medical history before any procedure. Below are common contraindications and important safety guidelines.
Medical Conditions
- Pregnancy: Not recommended due to limited research on effects during pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding: Consult your physician before undergoing any laser procedure.
- Undergoing IVF or Fertility Treatments: Avoid laser sessions during active fertility treatment cycles.
- Active Seizures or Epilepsy: Seek approval from your neurologist before treatment.
- Recent Chemotherapy: Wait at least three months after your last session before any laser treatment.
- Systemic Therapy with Gold: Avoid laser treatments if you have ever received gold-based injections or oral therapy.
- Organ Transplant Recipients: Not suitable due to possible immune system complications.
Active Skin Conditions
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Do not treat areas with active cold sores or shingles until fully healed.
- Open Wounds or Infections: Includes eczema, psoriasis, rashes, sunburn or windburn in the treatment area.
- Vitiligo: Avoid treating areas affected by vitiligo.
Recent Treatments or Procedures
- Accutane Use: Wait at least three months after stopping Accutane or its generic equivalent.
- Recent Facial Surgery: Avoid treatment for three months post-surgery (facelift, rhinoplasty, etc.).
- Invasive or Ablative Procedures: Avoid if you’ve had Fraxel, CO₂ laser, PDO threads, peels, dermaplaning or microneedling within 14–30 days.
- Neurotoxin or Filler Injections: Wait a minimum of 14 days after Botox, Xeomin, Dysport or fillers.
- Hair Removal Treatments: Allow at least 7 days after waxing, electrolysis or other laser sessions before skin treatments.
- Frozen or Cauterised Lesions: Wait 14 days after treating moles, skin tags or milia.
Medication and Sensitivity Considerations
- Photosensitising Medications: Antibiotics, topical retinoids or certain drugs can increase light sensitivity. Always disclose all medications.
- Immunosuppressants: Those prescribed for lupus, psoriasis or colitis should consult their doctor first.
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Puberty, menopause or hormonal imbalance can temporarily affect laser results.
- Healing Conditions: Diabetes or blood-clotting disorders may slow skin recovery and require extra caution.
Recent Sun or Heat Exposure
- Avoid sun exposure or tanning (including beds) for at least two weeks before treatment.
- Do not schedule treatments if the skin is sunburnt or overly tanned.
- Avoid direct heat exposure—such as saunas and hot tubs—for 48–72 hours after treatment.
Other Factors to Consider
- Topical or Herbal Supplements: Some natural supplements can affect skin sensitivity. Check with your GP before continuing them alongside laser treatments.
- Tattooed Skin: Laser cannot be performed directly on tattoos. Maintain at least a 2 cm distance from tattooed areas.
Pre-Treatment Guidelines
- Stop using active skincare (retinol, glycolic acid, exfoliating acids) at least one week before treatment.
- Shave the area 24–48 hours before your appointment; avoid waxing or plucking.
- Keep your skin well hydrated and use gentle skincare leading up to your session.
Post-Treatment Reminders
- Avoid heat exposure such as saunas or hot tubs for 48–72 hours post-treatment.
- Apply soothing products like aloe vera and use SPF daily to protect healing skin.
Always disclose your full medical history, medications and recent treatments to your practitioner before any laser session. This ensures your comfort, safety and the most effective results possible.
