Can you have laser hair removal on face whilst taking Azithromycin?

Question

I have Cystic Fibrosis and my doctor won't take me off Azithromycin, or give me an alternative. But I have facial hair that is causing me a lot of mental distress. I have had a small patch test done under my chin which didn't cause any adverse side effects. But my clinic says that Azithromycin makes you photosensitive. And what could go wrong if I had a photosensitive reaction to the laser hair removal?

Paul Flashner, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question.  I'm going to agree with your clinic and say no.  Where Azithromycin does make you photosensitive, it does put you at a higher chance to have an adverse reaction.  Now not every time you have a laser treatment done while on such a prescription will you have an adverse reaction and that's why you were fine after a spot treatment.  As your sessions go on and the settings are changing you are taking a risk each time and there is no telling when or how your body will react to it.  I would recommend finding an alternative to hair removal until it is safe for you to do laser.

Sergio Verduzco Casillas, MD · Answer

Hello, thanks for your question. The answer is No because it makes you photosensitive, and you may have adverse effects such as burning the skin. Consult a specialized doctor in your area to see your options. Book again when you finish your treatment and tell your doc. Good luck!

John W. Tyrone, MD · Answer

Undergoing laser hair removal while taking Azithromycin is not recommended. Azithromycin can be photo-sensitizing. This medication should be discontinued a month before your treatment.

Can you have laser hair removal on face whilst taking Azithromycin?

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Can you have laser hair removal on face whilst taking Azithromycin?

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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.