Laser Hair Removal
Informed Consent. Before and After Care Instructions
Congratulations on scheduling your cosmetic procedure at Spa 35 Medical Spa.
Use the Information below to learn how to prepare for your treatment and how to maximize your experience after your procedure.
The informed consent form for each procedure also provides important information. Please be sure to read it before signing. Ask a Spa 35 team member to answer your questions before scheduling your procedure.
Call Spa 35 with any questions or concerns regarding your treatment at 208-367-0700. After business hours select option 4 for urgent after-hours assistance. If you have an emergency call 911.
Laser Hair Removal - Treatment Purpose
Laser Hair Reduction reduces hair growth using high energy light concentrated into the hair follicle. In a few treatments, typically six, you can dramatically decrease wasted time shaving and waxing. Laser hair removal is done in a series of treatments that are scheduled four to eight weeks apart depending on the area on the body being treated. Maintaining adherence to your schedule is critical for maximizing your laser hair reduction results. Common treatment areas include bikini, Brazilian bikini, legs, underarms, back, arms and face. It is important to know that laser hair reduction does not permanently remove hair, periodic touch up treatments may necessary. On occasion there are people who do not respond to Laser Hair Reduction treatments.
Laser Hair Removal - Consent for Treatment
Informed consent documents are used to communicate information about the proposed cosmetic treatment along with disclosure of risks and alternative forms of treatment(s). Despite Laser Hair Reduction’s high level of efficacy and safety, it is not free of side effects or risks. As a patient you have the right to be informed about your treatment so that you may make the decision whether to proceed with the Laser Hair Reduction treatment or decline after knowing the risks involved. This disclosure is to inform you about the risks, side effects and possible complications related to Laser Hair Reduction prior to your treatment. This disclosure should not be considered all-inclusive in defining other methods of care and risks encountered. Spa 35 may provide you with additional or different information which is based on all the facts in your particular case and the state of medical knowledge.
Laser Hair Removal - Risks and Treatment Experience
There are both risks, and potential complications associated with Laser Hair Reduction. Although the majority of patients do not experience these complications, you should understand the risks and potential complications.
This list is not meant to be inclusive of all possible risks associated with Laser Hair Reduction as there are both known and unknown side effects associated with any medication or procedure.
This is a cosmetic treatment that could potentially conflict with other medically necessary medications used to treat disease. Full disclosure of medical conditions (past and current) is necessary to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you. Complete information on your medical history minimizes your risks from this treatment. If you under a physician's care for a serious medical condition Spa 35 may require the permission of your health care provider for cosmetic treatments.
Burned skin - The light energy from a Laser Hair Reduction treatment can burn your skin, in some cases severely. It is important to tell your provider about recent sun exposure and to report any use of light sensitizing drugs (such as Accutane) with an accurate medical history form. Dark skin has a greater probability of burning than lighter skin. Self-tanning lotions dramatically increase the risk of burns.
Scarring - The Laser Hair Reduction system can burn or blister the skin which creates a risk of scarring.
Poor results - Hair reduction is most effective on dark hair with color and does not treat white, grey, blonde, or red hair. Genetics, hormones, and hair color may interfere with hair reduction and some people may not respond at all. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of poor results. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS or suspect you may have PCOS please discuss this with your Spa 35 provider.
Post treatment redness and discomfort. There are short term effects of laser hair reduction. These may include reddening, mild burning, temporary bruising or blistering during the first few days after each treatment.
Hyper-pigmentation (browning) and Hypo-pigmentation (whitening)- Both have been noted after treatment, especially with a darker complexion. This usually resolves within weeks but can take as long as 3-6 months. Permanent color change is a rare potential risk. If you have dark skin a skin lightening cream may be advised to reduce the melanin in your skin before the treatment. Avoiding sun exposure after the treatment reduces the risk of color change.
Viral Outbreaks- Herpes simplex virus outbreaks can be triggered around the mouth and vulva by an IPL treatment. This applies to both individuals with a past history of herpes simplex virus outbreaks and to those without previous outbreaks. If you have a history of herpes simplex virus in the treated area, we recommend preventative therapy with an oral anti-viral medication.
Photosensitizing medication complications- Some over the counter and prescription medications can increase the risk of burning. We are unable to treat clients that are on ACCUTANE, and PHOTOSENSITIZING medications.
Infection- Although infection following pulsed light treatment is unusual, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections can occur with scabbing or other disruption of the skin barrier function. Should any type of skin infection occur, additional treatment including antibiotics might be necessary.
Bleeding- Pinpoint bleeding is rare but can occur following brown spot and spider vein treatment procedures. Should bleeding occur, additional treatment might be necessary.
Skin tissue pathology- Energy directed the skin may potentially vaporize diseased lesions making laboratory examination of a tissue specimen impossible. If you have discolored skin that is potentially cancerous you should have it examined by a dermatologist or other medical provider before your IPL treatment.
Allergic reactions- In rare cases, local allergies to tape, preservatives used in cosmetics or topical preparations, have been reported. Systemic reactions (which are more serious) may result from prescription medicines. Your skin may be numbed using an analgesic agent(s). Analgesics typically include but are not limited to benzocaine, lidocaine, tetracaine and epinephrine. There is the possibility of complications, injury, and even death from all forms of analgesics. Allergic reactions may require additional treatment.
Numbing agent reactions- Your skin may be numbed using an analgesic agent(s) as part of your procedure. Analgesics typically include but are not limited to benzocaine, lidocaine and tetracaine (BLT). BLT is a central nervous system depressant and has risks including, but not limited to: numbness, tingling, vertigo, restlessness, seizures, tremors, convulsions, tachycardia, and even death.
Breastfeeding- Women who are currently breastfeeding cannot use any analgesic agents (typically used for numbing the area prior to treatment). Analgesics and topical numbing creams have not been studied on breastfeeding women. There is a risk that those agents can be found in breastmilk.
Eye Damage- Eye damage can occur from the IPL energy. Protective eyewear must be worn during the treatment.
Laser Hair Removal - Pre-Treatment Instructions
It is prudent to follow some simple guidelines before your treatment. These guidelines can reduce possible side effects associated with the procedure and make all the difference between a fair result and a great result.
Preparing the treatment area- For maximum results please prepare for your appointment with the treatment area shaved with 1-2 days of stubble. It is important to stop waxing or plucking hairs at least three weeks prior to your Laser Hair Removal Treatment.
Sun Exposure- Please reschedule your appointment if your skin has been exposed to the sun and is “tanning”. The risk of burns and pigmentation changes increases dramatically when skin is creating pigmentation in response to sun exposure.
Self-Tanner- Stop the application of self-tanner for four weeks prior to treatment.
Tanning Beds- Stop the use of tanning beds three weeks prior to treatment
Prescription Medications – Review prescription medications with your provider for potential sun sensitizing effects.
Anti-viral medication- Begin preventative anti-viral medication as directed. This will decrease the risk of a post treatment herpetic outbreak.
Photosensitizing medications. Stop photosensitive medications prior to your treatment. We are unable to treat clients that are on antibiotics, ACCUTANE, and PHOTOSENSITIZING medications. A list of common photosensitizing medications can be found here https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/drug-induced-photosensitivity/
Laser Hair Removal - Treatment Day Instructions
Shave- Shave the area you are having treated the day before your appointment (do not wax or pluck).
Laser Hair Removal - Post Treatment Instructions
Cold Compresses and topical creams- Immediately after the treatments, there may be redness and bumps at the treatment area, which may last up to 2 hours or longer. It is normal for the treated area to feel like sunburn for a few hours. You may apply a cold compress if needed. If you experience scabbing or crusting of the skin apply antibiotic cream to decrease the risk of infection. Aloe vera can also provide relief.
Makeup- Makeup may be used after the treatment, unless there is blistering or scabbing. It is recommended to use new makeup to reduce the possibility of infection. Start with a moisturizer on the skin before applying makeup. Avoid moisturizers with alpha-hydroxy acids.
Sun Exposure- Avoid sun exposure to reduce the chance of dark or light spots for 2 months. Use sunscreen SPF 25 or higher at all times throughout the treatment and for 1-2 months following.
Skin Care- Avoid picking or scratching the treated skin. DO NOT USE any other hair removal methods or products on the treated area during the course of your laser treatments, as it will prevent you from achieving your best results. Do not exfoliate or use harsh soaps on the treated area for 48 hours after treatment. You may apply deodorant after 24 hours.
Showering- You may shower after the laser treatments and use a mild soap. Skin should be patted dry and NOT rubbed.
Hair growth- Your hair growth may appear to increase immediately after your treatment as the damaged hair shafts shed from the follicle. This is normal and not a reason for concern
Laser Hair Removal - Alternative Treatment Options
Alternative options to Laser Hair Removal are waxing, plucking, shaving and electrolysis. Risks and potential complications are associated with alternative forms of treatment that involve skin treatments or cosmetic procedures.
Laser Hair Removal - Synergistic Treatments
Areas of the body not being treated with Laser Hair Reduction can continued to be treated with other hair removal methods, such as waxing. Other cosmetic body treatments include CoolTone muscle toning, CoolSculpting fat removal, Kybella fat removal, Intima feminine rejuvenation and O-Shot.
Laser Hair Removal - Acknowledgement
I have read and understand the Pre and Post Treatment Instructions. I agree to follow these instructions carefully. I understand that compliance with recommended pre and post procedure guidelines are crucial for healing, prevention of scarring, and other side effects and complications such as hyper pigmentation, hypo pigmentation, and other skin textural changes. Particularly the possible adverse effects of light sensitizing drugs, such as Accutane and those of anticoagulants.
I completed an accurate medical history document. If there are any issues that are not covered by the medical history form which I think are relevant to my treatment, I will inform Spa 35 prior to my treatment. I will also notify Spa 35 of any changes in my health or medical care as they occur during my treatment program.
I understand that this treatment is not meant to replace the necessity for a complete dermatological examination of suspicious lesions.
I confirm that I am not pregnant and have not taken Accutane within the last 6 months. I do not have a pacemaker or internal defibrillator. I also have completed an accurate medical history document and been informed about what I must do and "not do" before, during and after the series of treatments.
Photographs: I give permission for my photographs to be used to help document my treatment course. Complete confidentiality will be maintained.
No guarantee, warranty, or assurance has been made to me as to the results that may be obtained. I am aware that follow-up treatments may be necessary for desired results. Most patients require a number of treatments over several months with gradual results occurring over this time. Clinical results will vary per patient. Laser or other treatments may not completely improve or prevent future skin disorders, lesions, or wrinkles. Additional cosmetic procedures may be necessary to further tighten loose skin. I agree to adhere to all safety precautions and regulations during the treatment. Some people are unable to complete the treatment due to discomfort. No refunds will be given for treatments received.
I recognize that during the course of the treatment, medical treatment or anesthesia, unforeseen conditions may necessitate different procedures than those above. I therefore authorize Spa 35 providers to perform such other procedures that are in the exercise of his or her professional judgment necessary and desirable. The authority granted under this paragraph shall include all conditions that require treatment and are not known to the provider at the time the procedure is begun.
I understand and agree that all services rendered to me are charged directly to me and that I am personally responsible for payment.
The nature and purpose of the treatment have been explained to me. I have read and understand this agreement. All of my questions have been answered to my satisfaction and I consent to the terms of this agreement. Alternative methods of treatment and their risks and benefits have been explained to me and I understand that I have the right to refuse treatment.
If I experience any major or life-threatening symptoms, I will call 911 immediately. For non-emergency questions I will call Spa 35 at 208-367-0700, (for after-hours concerns selection option #4).
I release Spa 35, medical staff, and specific technicians from liability associated with this procedure. I certify that I am a competent adult of at least 18 years of age. This Consent Form is freely and voluntarily executed and shall be binding upon my spouse, relatives, legal representatives, heirs, administrators, successors, and assigns.
Please contact the Spa 35 team if you have any questions about this information on Laser Hair Removal
Why Chose Spa 35 Med Spa for Your Cosmetic Treatments?
The medical providers at Spa 35 Med Spa have been delivering cosmetic services for thirteen years. Our staff includes Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses and Aestheticians.
Experience - Spa 35 Med Spa has been helping clients Look and Feel their Best for twelve years.
Medical Staff - The team is led by Nurse Practitioners and composed of Registered Nurses and aesthetic skin care professionals. Botox and filler injections are performed by medically trained injectors, not estheticians.
Industry Leadership - Warren Danforth, the Spa 35 owner, is a Key Opinion Leader for Syneron-Candela's Medical Spa Program. Syneron-Candela is a global non-surgical aesthetic device company.
Broad Scope of Expertise - From Botox to CoolSculpting Fat Reduction and Vaginal Rejuvenation, Spa 35® Med Spa has an extensive set of experience to help you reach your goals. This means you get the expertise to help you select the service(s) are right for you and your budget.
Photographs on this website are used to illustrate how services are used and their potential impact on your appearance. Your results will not completely match any photographs. Genetics, sun exposure, diet and exercise all influence your results. The Spa 35 Med Spa team strongly encourages all of our clients to maximize their lifestyle choices.