What you need to know about laser treatmentsIs laser treatment safe for me?

Whilst many people who have laser or light therapy treatments may have positive experiences, sometimes things can go wrong.

So if you're considering this kind of treatment, it’s important that you know what to expect and how to get the best possible care.

Keep yourself safe

Find out whether you'll be treated with a laser or IPL

Before undergoing any treatment, you must check it is safe for you to go ahead.

• If you are pregnant or have any history of skin cancer, you should not undergo laser treatment.
• If you have a heart condition, diabetes or history of skin problems you should consult your GP before considering treatment.
• Consult your GP if you're regularly taking, vitamins or natural remedies such as St John's Wort.
• Consult your GP if you're regularly taking medicines. Some drugs including acne medication such as Roaccutance, anti-depressants, contraceptives and prescription-strength Vitamin A preparations can cause complications with laser treatments.
• If you're considering laser for the removal of moles you should consult your GP.
• You should not have a tan - real or fake - before treatment or go out in the sun following laser treatments. Discuss this with your practitioner. One supplier of laser machines recommends that patients should not have been on a sun bed or have been sun bathing 30 days prior to treatment

Choosing a laser treatment provider

Because there are risks it's very important that you find a practitioner who is experienced and safe.

When deciding on a clinic, check the following to ensure you get the safest possible treatment:

1 Check your clinic is registered.

If your clinic is in England or Wales, you should check that it is registered with the health regulator, either the Care Quality Commission or the Healthcare Inspectorate Wales. You can check out a clinic on these regulators' websites and check out inspection reports.

2 Check on qualifications

Currently, you don't have to be a doctor or nurse to operate a laser machine, but your practitioner should have training in laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) hair removal and/or in skin laser technology. They should also have regular update training.

3 How experienced is your practicioner?

Ask them to explain their experience using lasers, and treating different skin and hair types.

4 Check the track record

Ask for before and after pictures of previous patients' treatments.

5 Take your time

Don't be pressurised into making a decision even if you're offered special deals.

6 Consider insurance

Check your therapist or practitioner has professional indemnity insurance. Ask to see their insurance certificate.

7 What equipment will be used?

Find out if you will be treated with a laser or an IPL. For some treatments, for example tattoo removal, IPLs are not suitable.

8 Ask the right questions