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.

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.

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!

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

Answers (3)

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