Retinol A and Laser Hair Removal

Question

can I do laser hair removal on my face while using retinol A?

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Some doctors advocate for the discontinuation of Retinols one week before the laser hair removal so that the skin is less irrritated.  Some Retinols are more irritating than others, and prescription tretinoin (Retin-A and others) are even more irritating.

Monika Kiripolsky, MD · Answer

Hi Maya, 
  There is no contraindication to having laser hair removal while using a topical vitamin A derivative (tretinoin, other retinoids, retinols, etc.). However, it is recommended that you stop use of any/all of these topical vitamin A derivatives at least 5-7 days prior to waxing the areas. If you are at all unsure as to whether or not one of the topical products that you are using contains a vitamin A derivative/retinoid/retinol,please ask your dermatologist prior to scheduling a waxing appointment. 
But, again, undergoing laser hair removal while actively using one of these topical medications is not contraindicated.
Good luck and take care!

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! If you mean Retin-A (tretinoin) cream, then laser hair removal should be safe to do, depending on the laser. We use the Candela alexandrite laser which is absorbed by dark pigmentation in the hair follicle so there should be no problem if Retin-A makes your face red. Best of luck!

Patricia Yugueros, MD · Answer

We recommend to stop using Retinols 3-4 days prior to your laser treatment.    Lessens the chance of burning the skin.

Michael Ghim, MD, MBA · Answer

At Contour MedSpa, we recommend our clients stop using Retin-A or Retinol products 1-2 weeks prior to Laser Hair Removal Treatment.  Retin-A is a very good product and highly recommended; however, it can cause side effects if not stopped prior to Laser Hair Removal including: burning of the skin, hyper-pigmentation (darkening of the skin) and hypo-pigmentation (lightening of the skin).

Retinol A and Laser Hair Removal

Answers (10)

Answer: Retinol

Answer: Retinol

Answer: Using Retinol A Prior to Laser Hair Removal

Answer: Using Retinol A Prior to Laser Hair Removal

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

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Retinol A and Laser Hair Removal

Answers (10)

Answer: Retinol

Answer: Retinol

Answer: Using Retinol A Prior to Laser Hair Removal

Answer: Using Retinol A Prior to Laser Hair Removal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.