Laser / IPL is a very safe, superficial treatment, with very little risk of any long-term problems/scarring etc. However, there are some circumstances where you would not be able to be treated.
Pregnancy – it is not possible to treat you with Laser / IPL if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Sun exposure – recent sun exposure, and particularly if you have current tan on your skin.
Fake tan – as this puts pigment on and into the surface of the skin, so you would not be able to be treated if you have fake tan products on your skin.
Sunbeds –there is significant research to show that these are potentially very dangerous, by raising your chance of developing melanoma, so the use of sunbeds is not something we would advise you to use. We would not treat your skin if you had used a sunbed in recent weeks, particularly if you have active tan on your skin.
Medications – some medications can cause increased photosensitivity (causing your skin to react more in the sun) If this is the case, we would not be able to treat you until you have completed the course of the medication and it is fully out of your system. In the case of Roaccutane, we would not be able to treat for at least 6 months following the last dose taken. You must stop any acid-based products such as Glycolic and Salicylic at least 1 – 2 weeks before each treatment.
Laser / IPL treatments are not suitable when you have active infections or inflammations, a viral/fungal/bacterial disease, active cold sores, open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area.
Risks may include a change in skin pigmentation, changes to skin texture, bruising or burns. Be sure to consult with your treatment provider before choosing this treatment.
Before any treatment can be planned, you will be required to undergo a thorough consultation to assess your skin type and evaluate your medical history and any possible contra-indications to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the treatment. We will also perform a patch test before commencing any procedure.