Follow these essential laser pre-treatment tips to protect your skin and get the best possible results.
To achieve the best possible results from your laser treatment, please follow the guidelines below and inform your practitioner about any health or skin details before your appointment.
1. Sun Exposure and Tanning
- Avoid direct sun exposure: Stay out of the sun for at least 2 weeks before treatment to prevent sunburn and pigmentation issues.
- Sunscreen use: If you must be outdoors, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and wear protective clothing such as a hat or long sleeves.
- No tanning: Avoid both artificial and natural tanning for at least 4 weeks before treatment. Sunburned or tanned skin cannot be treated.
- Tan recovery: Wait until your skin has returned to its normal tone after any tanning, including spray tans, before treatment.
2. Skincare Products
- Avoid irritating products: Stop using products with retinoids, glycolic acids, or vitamin A derivatives 5 to 7 days before your appointment, as these can increase sensitivity.
- No chemical exfoliation: Discontinue AHAs, BHAs, or chemical peels at least 1 week before your session.
- Hair removal methods: Avoid waxing, tweezing, or depilatory creams for 2 weeks before treatment, as they remove the follicle and reduce laser effectiveness.
- Moisturising: Keep your skin hydrated with mild, fragrance-free moisturisers.
3. Health Conditions
- Medical disclosure: Inform your practitioner about any medical conditions, particularly skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis, active infections, or cold sores.
- Pregnancy and nursing: Laser treatments are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always let your practitioner know if you are pregnant or nursing.
- Skin sensitivity: If you have light-sensitive conditions or are taking photosensitive medications, please inform your practitioner beforehand.
4. Hair Removal
- Shaving: Shave the area the day before or the morning of your treatment so the laser can target the follicles effectively. Make sure your skin is clean and free of lotions or deodorants.
- Avoid other hair removal methods: Do not wax, tweeze, or use depilatory creams for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
5. Medications and Medical Conditions
- Medication disclosure: Notify your practitioner of all current medications. Some, such as certain antibiotics, isotretinoin (Accutane), or blood thinners, can increase skin sensitivity.
- Side effects: If you take immune-suppressing medication or treatments that cause photosensitivity, consult your doctor before laser sessions.
- Healing concerns: If you have diabetes, poor wound healing, or are taking corticosteroids, speak with your healthcare provider before proceeding.
6. Expectations and Post-Treatment Care
- Sensitivity and redness: Mild redness or swelling may occur after treatment and usually resolves within a few hours.
- Multiple sessions: A series of treatments is typically needed for optimal results. Your practitioner will advise on the correct spacing.
- Recovery: Avoid vigorous exercise, hot showers, saunas, and swimming for 48 hours after your treatment.
Additional Notes for Success
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before your appointment to keep your skin healthy and resilient.
- Treatment frequency: Keep a consistent schedule as advised by your practitioner for the best results.
- Skin reactions: If you notice prolonged redness, blistering, or pigmentation changes, contact your practitioner immediately.
By following these pre-treatment guidelines, you’ll help ensure a smoother, safer, and more effective laser experience with long-lasting results.
