4 Checks Before Booking Laser Hair Removal

Use the consultation to ask about your skin and hair before paying for a course of treatments.

Four checks for the consultation

1. Experience with your skin color. Ask how many people with similar skin coloring the clinician has treated and what precautions they use. The dermatology guidance recommends a board-certified dermatologist experienced in laser treatment.¹²

2. Your medical history. Mention recent tanning, a tendency to scar or develop keloids, cold sores or genital herpes, and isotretinoin or other medicines. The clinician needs this information when assessing suitability and preparation.¹

3. Results for this hair and body area. Skin color, hair color and thickness, the treated area and laser type affect results. Multiple sessions are commonly needed, and regrowth may require maintenance. Ask what the proposed course includes and how progress will be reviewed.²

4. The sun-protection plan. Avoid tanning and follow the provider’s directions before treatment. Afterward, protect treated skin from direct sunlight and follow the aftercare instructions. Ask how the schedule fits your outdoor activities.¹²

Bring the practical details

Write down the body areas you want treated and the appointments you can attend. Ask for the preparation instructions, proposed treatment schedule and costs in writing so you can review them at home.

The consent discussion should include possible skin-color changes and scarring, along with discomfort, swelling and redness. Ask which changes should prompt a call to the clinic.²

Hair, Everywhere lists a Pick-It method match and Hair Log. Use them to organize your hair-removal choices and observations alongside the consultation. See the book.