It is very important to book a consultation before undergoing laser hair removal treatment at the clinic of your choice in order to know whether the treatment is both safe for you. And for you. At the Brighton Laser Clinics branch, I had a thorough consultation with Smith, who assessed my medical records as well as my hair color and skin type. Fortunately, I was suitable for treatment. In fact, I was the ideal candidate because my hair is very dark and I have fair skin. Smith explained that it’s important that your hair is pigmented so the laser can treat it. The contrast between dark hair and light skin also makes it easy for the laser to find the follicles you want to target. On the other hand, if you have blonde hair, this treatment is not suitable for you. “The laser cannot treat white, gray or blonde hair and certain types of auburn hair that has a transparent appearance. The same goes for vellus (or peach fuzz) hair on the face. The hair must have a pigmentation for the laser to work,” says Smith.
So what about different skin tones? Laser clinics use a device called Candela Gentlelase Pro, which means that all skin tones on the Fitzpatrick scale can be treated, from very dark to very light skin tones. At other clinics, you may find that the devices they use cannot treat certain skin tones. In laser clinics, the suitability of your treatment depends on the pigment of your hair follicles rather than your skin tone.
During the consultation, it is also important to raise your medical history and medications you are currently taking and to discuss whether you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding. Laser hair removal is not recommended during pregnancy, and hormonal fluctuations can also affect hair growth, which may affect the results of your laser hair removal treatment. However, if you become pregnant in the middle of your treatment, Laser Clinics will freeze your treatment plan so that you can resume treatment when you are ready to return.
When it comes to medications, it is important to report everything you are taking as well as any changes in your medical history. Some medications can cause light sensitivity or hormonal fluctuations, which may affect your treatment or your ability to be treated (more on this later).
