Laser hair removal is a popular method of hair removal that uses a laser beam to destroy hair follicles, resulting in long-term hair reduction. If you’re considering laser hair removal treatment, you might be wondering how antibiotics can affect the process. And rightly so. When it comes to laser there are certain contra indications you should check for before embarking on your laser journey. And I’m here to shed some light on how antibiotics can impact your laser treatment. And most importantly what you can do to prevent an adverse reaction.
The impact of antibiotics and laser hair removal
If you’re taking antibiotics from the Cycline group (tetracycline, doxycycline); it’s important to know that these can make your skin more sensitive to light. Laser hair removal relies on the laser beam to penetrate the skin and target hair follicles. So if your skin is more sensitive to light, the treatment can be less effective. And you may be at risk of developing burns or other skin damage. After this type of antibiotics you should wait for as long as you were taking the course for. So for example if you have been taking a 14 days course, you should wait 14 days after finishing the antibiotics.
If you’re taking Roaccutane; you should wait 6 months after finishing the course and before having any laser treatment.
Preparing for your laser hair removal treatment
To ensure you receive a safe and effective laser hair removal , it’s important to prepare your skin properly. And follow these guidelines at all times.
- Avoid sun exposure – Sun exposure can make your skin more sensitive to light. And increase the risk of burns or skin damage during the treatment. Avoid sun exposure for at least 6 weeks before your laser hair removal appointment. And even then make sure a new patch test is performed before your treatment course resumes.
- If you are taking any new medication – Always contact your practitioner to double check whether this has an impact on your treatment. This applies to both oral and topical medication.
- Shave the treatment area – Shave the treatment area a day or two before your appointment to ensure that the laser can penetrate to the hair follicles rather than being absorbed by the hair on the surface of your skin.
- Avoid other hair removal methods – Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading the treatment area for at least 4 weeks before your appointment. These methods can remove the hair follicles and make the laser l treatment less effective.
If you’re ever in any doubt, please contact your laser practitioner for further guidance. Delays in your treatment may be annoying and inconvenient at times, but after all its all about your health and safety. And there is nothing that comes before that.
How to book your consultation and what happens during your first visit?
As the first step of your skin journey at Skin Perfection, you’ll be invited to attend a no obligations consultation. This will give you the opportunity to get a good understanding of your skin.
During your first meeting you’ll receive all the information and knowledge you’ll need to keep your skin healthy. Finally to manage your skin concerns your practitioner will recommend you a personalised treatment plan.
