Skin treatments: what to ask before laser, peels and skin needling

Common skin treatments people ask about

Skin treatments include laser and light-based treatments, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and skin needling. Suitability depends on your skin, history and goals, and should be assessed in person by a qualified practitioner.

Questions to ask

• What training and qualifications do you hold for this treatment? Are you licensed where your state requires it?
• Is this suitable for my skin type, and how will you check (for example a patch test)?
• How many sessions are usually discussed, and what is the full cost?
• What downtime and aftercare should I plan for?
• Should I avoid sun, certain skincare or medicines before or after?

Record after each session

• Treatment name, settings or strength if provided
• Areas treated
• How your skin felt that day and the days after
• Photos in the same light and angle each time
• Aftercare instructions and products recommended

Why photos and notes help

Consistent photos and notes let you and your practitioner talk about changes accurately, rather than relying on memory.

An important note

This guide is general information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace a consultation with a qualified, registered health practitioner, who will assess whether any treatment is appropriate for you. Every person is different and no particular result can be promised. You can take time to decide, ask for written information, and say no at any point.