Most people can have laser hair removal. Very dark skin shades require reduced energy settings, to prevent the risk of hyperpigmentation, and therefore more appointments maybe required to achieve the result. However, you can not have a laser treatment if any of the following apply:
- The treatment area is tanned.
- The treatment area has a tattoo.
- The treatment area has open wounds or active acne.
- You suffer with Psoriasis or Vitiligo.
- You have used within the last 6 months:
- Roaccutane
- St John's Wart
- Amiodarone
- Minocycline
- Gold medications
- Anticoagulants
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you suffer with herpes or cold sores you can have treatments when the condition is in remission, but the laser treatment may cause a flareup.
Any laser hair removal treatment requires there to be a follicle to target. If you’ve recently plucked or waxed the area, there won’t be any. It’s usually recommended that you wait two weeks before attempting laser hair removal. Alternatives like shaving or depilatory creams are great to bridge that gap between hair and laser results!