Page 137 - Chapter 3 - Fundamentals of Laser/IPL Hair Removal

Chapter 3 – Fundamentals of Laser/IPL Hair Removal 1st Edition
Appendix 7 – Contraindications to Laser Hair Treatment
Please note that this list is not comprehensive – other contraindications most likely exist.
Cancer, particularly skin cancer
Pregnancy, including IVF (in-vitro fertilization)
Use of photosensitizing medications and herbs for which laser/IPL light exposure is contraindicated
Prolonged exposure to the sun, including artificial tanning during the 3-4 weeks prior to and after treatments
Active herpes skin infections – if you have a history of HSV-1, also known as a cold sore or fever blister, please inform the office immediately prior to any treatments so that appropriate prophylactic reactions can be given.
Active skin infections
History of Keloid scarring
Insulin-dependent Diabetes
Fragile or dry skin
Hormonal disorders that are stimulated under intense light
Use of anti-coagulant medications, i.e. blood thinners
Epilepsy
History of coagulopathies, or blood clotting disorders such as venous stasis, etc.
Any reaction which you may have had to previous laser/IPL treatments
Potential Side Effects of Treatment
Discomfort
Damage to natural skin texture – a crust or blister formation – Normal wound care applies, so please contact the office as soon as possible should you encounter any such reaction.
Change in pigmentation
Scarring – a very small chance of scarring as well as hypertrophic keloid scarring – Please inform your operator of any history of such pre-existing conditions.
Excessive swelling – Immediately after treatment, it is not uncommon to be red, swollen and a bit tender around the treatment sites. This will dissipate on its own, usually within 2-12 hours, but may remain up to 7 days.
Bruising may appear on the treated area which may last from a few hours to several days.
Adverse Effects of Treatment
Severe or prolonged erythema (redness) and oedema (swelling) within 2-24 hours of treatment that could last for several weeks
Irritation, itching, a mild burning sensation or pain, similar to a sunburn, may occur.
Blisters, epidermal erosions or peri-lesional hyperpigmentation may develop and remain evident for several days to several weeks following treatment.
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