How you prepare?

If you're interested in laser hair removal, choose a doctor who's board certified in a specialty such as dermatology or cosmetic surgery and has experience with laser hair removal. If a physician's assistant or licensed nurse will do the procedure, make sure the doctor supervises and is available on-site during the treatments. Be cautious about spas, salons or other facilities that allow nonmedical personnel to do laser hair removal.
Before laser hair removal, schedule a consultation with the doctor. He or she will use this visit to:

• Review your medical history, including medication use
• Discuss risks, benefits and expectations, including what laser hair removal can and can't do for you
• Outline a treatment plan and related costs
• Take photos to be used for before-and-after assessments and long-term reviews

The doctor will also offer specific tips to prepare for laser hair removal. For example:

• Stay out of the sun. A tan increases the risk of side effects, such as blistering and discoloration. If you have a tan — either from sun exposure or sunless tanning products — wait until the tan fades completely before undergoing laser hair removal.
• Avoid plucking, waxing and electrolysis. These hair removal methods can disturb the hair follicle and interfere with laser hair removal. Shaving is OK, however, since it preserves the hair shaft and follicle. In fact, shaving may even be recommended. Some studies suggest that shaving before laser hair removal improves results.