Can you Take Antibiotic Before Laser Hair Removal Sessions?

You must stop taking antibiotics for a full 2 weeks prior to being treated for laser hair removal. Here are a few reasons why:

Increased Photosensitivity: Some antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, and sulfonamides, can make your skin more sensitive to light. Laser hair removal already involves exposure to intense light, and combining it with antibiotics that increase photosensitivity can heighten the risk of adverse reactions like burns or hyperpigmentation.

Skin Sensitivity: Antibiotics can sometimes cause skin irritation or inflammation as a side effect. Combining this with the skin irritation that may occur during or after laser hair removal could exacerbate discomfort and potentially lead to more severe skin reactions.

Effectiveness of Laser Treatment: Antibiotics, particularly those used to treat bacterial infections, can interfere with the skin's natural microbiome. Disrupting the balance of bacteria on the skin may affect the skin's ability to heal properly after laser treatment, potentially leading to complications or reduced effectiveness of the hair removal procedure.

If you're taking medication that you're certain isn't photosensitive, you can proceed with your laser treatment sessions without worrying about medication-induced side effects. However, if you're unsure about the photosensitivity of your medication, please notify your technician as soon as possible. Always disclose any medical conditions to your technician and avoid taking risk.