I just found this article on the Health Canada website. It gives some general considerations you should think about when considering a laser or IPL treatment.
Here’s an excerpt:
Minimizing Your Risk
The best way to minimize your risk is to make informed decisions based upon thorough research. Find out whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure you have in mind. Look into the requirements for recovery time and follow-up care. Investigate the risks, and weigh them against the benefits expected for someone with your type of skin and/or hair.
If you decide to go ahead, be sure that the person who will operate the laser device has the training and experience needed to perform the procedure safely and effectively. Ask the operator for references. Experts in cosmetics with proper training in laser techniques should be able to perform hair reduction treatments with minimal risks to the Canadian public. Avoid tanning before and after treatments for laser hair reduction. Tanning increases melanin production in your skin and can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
Pretty good advice.
I’m kind of surprised that Health Canada publishes articles like this but if you go to their full list of articles, you’ll find all kinds of interesting information.
Way to go, Health Canada!