FAQs

What can laser treatment be used for?

Red marks e.g. port wine stains, thread veins, spider veins
Brown marks e.g. freckles, age spots
Unwanted hair growth
Tattoo removal, decorative or traumatic
Acne scars, other scars, fine lines and superficial blemishes on the skin

Will my treatment hurt?

Most people do not find treatment for red marks, or hair or pigment removal very painful. The sensation is a little like being flicked by an elastic band. If you find the test patch very painful you may be offered anaesthetic cream that is applied for 30 - 60 minutes before your next treatment. Treatment with the resurfacing laser does not hurt, as a local anaesthetic is used, although there may be a little discomfort afterwards as the graze left by the treatment heals.

How long will the treatment take?

Many treatments take less than 15 minutes to carry out.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on which laser treatment you are having and is difficult to predict.

Will my treatment work?

We cannot guarantee that treatment will achieve all that you hope for, but we will explain any limitations and aim to reach the best possible result for you. If we feel that no more benefit will be possible, we will say so.

How long will it be between treatments?

For hair control the treatments are at least one month to 6 weeks apart.

For red birthmarks treatments are usually at least two months apart.

For tattoo removal treatments are usually at least 6 weeks to two months apart.

For the resurfacing laser treatments may be 3 to 6 months or longer apart.

Why do I have to wait so long between appointments?

For hair reduction, the new hair must be in the correct stage of its life cycle to respond to laser treatment. The intervals you are treated at give the best reduction in hair growth.

For treatment of red and brown marks, the removal of colour continues after the bruising or scabbing has gone body's immune system removes the damaged blood vessels or pigment. It is best not to retreat until this clearance is complete.

Why can I not have a suntan or wear fake tan?

Real or fake tan reduces the efficiency of laser treatment and can cause the treated area to become darker (temporarily) or paler (which may be permanent). Please avoid exposure to the sun and protect your skin by applying high factor suncream (SPF50).

Can I have laser treatment if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Hormone levels are not normal during pregnancy or breast feeding and there may be a different response to laser treatment. Changes in skin colour, which may be permanent, are more likely at these times, so treatment should be delayed until hormone levels return to normal.

However, pregnant women have protected status under the Equality Act 2010. Therefore, we are happy to treat you if you are pregnant or a new mother. We must make you aware that the risks are higher for skin complications, but this will not affect your baby. Please consider childcare options as we cannot allow children to accompany you in the treatment room.

Why should I not scratch the treated area?

Scratching the treated area increases the chance of scarring.

What should I do if the treated area becomes swollen?

Try and keep the treated area elevated. If the area is on the face, for example, sleep using extra pillows. Cooling the area with a cold pack wrapped in a towel may help.

What should I do if the treated area becomes flaky?

Flakiness sometimes occurs when the skin is healing and as long as the skin is not broken you may apply a little non-scented moisturiser such as E 45.

What should I do if the area becomes very inflamed?

If you think the area around the treatment site is inflamed, please go and see your GP who may prescribe an antibiotic if it is infected.

When can I apply make-up?

You may apply make-up to the treated area after 2 - 3 days if the skin is not broken or scabbed. It is important to be very gentle removing the make-up as some make-up removers are very harsh.

Why can I not wear tight clothing?

Tight clothes may rub the treated skin and damage it, increasing the risk of scarring. Jeans are especially unsuitable to wear if your treatment is on your leg as the fabric is rough.

When can I go swimming?

Do not go swimming for 2 - 3 days after treatment, and the skin has completely healed if it was broken. The chemicals in swimming pools may aggravate the treated area and increase the risk of scarring.

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