While we want to see everybody hair-free and carefree, there are a few situations in which the laser hair removal process is a bit different, depending on the individual.
For instance, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in women that is a result of a hormonal imbalance that results in metabolism problems that can affect one’s overall health and appearance. If you have PCOS, you may be concerned about your ability to get laser hair removal treatments, due to the amount and thickness of facial and body hair you have as a symptom of your condition. Women with PCOS grow a lot of hair as a result of a high level of testosterone in their body, and because of this high testosterone, laser hair removal is a bit more difficult, yet definitely not impossible. While everyone is different, you typically may need more than the average six treatments and then more regular touch-ups. Some women with PCOS need touch ups once a year, and some come every six months. We will work with you to find out a schedule to suit your own unique needs.
Other special circumstances include steroids and antibiotics due to these drugs being “photosensitizing.” Photosensitizing drugs contain chemical compounds with photo reactive agents that cause them to react to UV light. If you were to use these drugs and get laser hair removal, the side effects have varying degrees depending on the individual. Some of the most common types are hyper pigmentation (the discoloration of the skin), blisters, and mild burns. And of course, there is the risk that the side effects could be even worse. Therefore, to be completely safe, some steroids and antibiotics require you to not only be finished with your described dosage but to also wait a period of about a month after the last dose before going to your laser hair removal treatment. Some, such as Accutane, a popular prescription for getting rid of acne, actually require that you wait as long as 6 months before getting lasered!
When it comes down to it, make sure you are completely honest with us about your medical conditions and treatments, to make sure we are able to get rid of your hair and conduct our treatments in the easiest and safest way possible!
