Should I continue laser while taking small course of Oracea and topical Retin-A Micro?

Question

I also currently have been doing laser hair removal using Candela Gentlelase laser on my face and other parts of my body. I am aware that I should avoid lasers while on these medications but I am wondering if it is still safe to do so while stopping the medication a week prior to my laser appointment. My laser technician says it would be safe to continue while my dermatologist does not recommend it. Need a second opinion. Please help!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

We recommend stopping these products 1-2 weeks prior to treatment. Diode, alexandrite and yag lasers work best for hair removal and safe for darker skin tones. I typically have patients do every 4 weeks for the first 3 times and then every 4-6 weeks for 3 times after. It will take a series of treatments and some people need treatments to maintain. See an expert in laser hair removal for best results. Best, Dr. Emer

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Good afternoon and thank you for your question! Both medications have been known to cause photosensitivity so it would be best to avoid any laser treatments while taking/using these medications. It would be fine to stop using RetinA for at least a week and then get laser hair removal, but you would need to let the Oracea get out of your system as well before it is safe to get treated. Typically, patients are given 30 capsules of Oracea so I would wait until you're completely done taking that and then give it at least two weeks after your last dose to get treated. Best of luck! For more information, please feel free to visit our website!

Should I continue laser while taking small course of Oracea and topical Retin-A Micro?

Answers (2)