Safety is always the top priority at Milan Laser. But many people who think they aren’t candidates can actually be treated. Accutane, a common acne medication, is often said to rule out laser treatments. While older guidance advised against it, newer research has shifted standards. Read on for what this means for your skin and laser hair removal.

Accutane and Laser Hair Removal

Accutane is a retinoid medication that is used to treat severe acne. While it’s effective for many, it also comes with its fair share of side effects, including skin sensitivity, the risk of scarring, dryness, redness, peeling, and sensitivity to light.

With those factors to consider, it makes sense that most doctors would advise caution during laser hair removal treatment. But what was an initial worry from performing laser and acne treatment at the same time — dry skin, scarring, and/or burning — was actually the result of an adverse reaction to a fully ablative argon laser treatment. Further studies and advancements in laser technology have shown this to be untrue.

Can You Get Laser Hair Removal While on Accutane?

Yes, you can get laser hair removal while on Accutane. Further research has shown no correlation between the use of medications that could increase photosensitivity and the potential risk for experiencing a complication during laser hair removal treatment.

Some healthcare providers have expanded on the topic, discussing the effects of laser hair removal while on the prescription. It should be noted that clients on Accutane or other photosensitizing medications need to be diligent about protecting their skin from sun and UV exposure.

Multiple Benefits

Previous recommendations with limited studies advised waiting for several months after Accutane treatment to ensure no risk of any adverse reactions. That, too, is no longer the case.

During treatment, the heat from the laser targets and destroys the hair follicle, preventing future hair growth. With repeated treatments every five weeks, clients will see results, ultimately replacing unwanted hair with silky-smooth skin. 

Laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure and works on any skin type and nearly all hair colors except white hair, gray hair, and peach fuzz. It's also a great way to help address a number of skin conditions and side effects from shaving and waxing like ingrown hairs, razor burn, and razor bumps.

Happy woman holding her hand to her chin after getting laser hair removal on accutane and wearing a white camisole while standing outside

Ready To Book Your Free Consultation?

If you’ve been hesitant about laser hair removal as someone on Accutane, we want to put your mind at ease. And if you want to discover more about how laser hair removal works, book a free consultation with us at Milan Laser today. We’re the country’s largest provider of laser hair removal with more than 380 locations nationwide. Find a convenient location near you and start your hair-free journey today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can get laser hair removal while on Accutane. Online research may tell you outdated information regarding the severe acne prescription. The original caution with laser and acne treatment at the same time -- the dry skin, scarring, skin sensitivity, and/or burning -- was actually the result of an adverse reaction to a fully ablative argon laser.

You can comfortably remove hair with any method of your choice aside from waxing. Waxing can irritate sensitive skin and even cause it to lift because Accutane thins the outer layer of your skin. Laser hair removal procedures, along with other options like shaving, tweezing, or threading, will also work.

Yes, you can get laser hair removal while on acne medication. The medication does not increase potential complications or risk of skin irritation during treatment. However, if a client is in the midst of a breakout on his or her face, that could lead to a more unpleasant experience compared to getting treatment with clear skin or on another part of the body.

Yes, laser hair removal can be performed when a person has acne. In fact, a laser procedure is a great way to help address and reduce the symptoms of acne in adults. However, it’s not a cure for the condition, and any active acne on the face should be avoided by your laser technician for treatment.

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