Laser skin treatments

How to prepare for BBL laser treatment

Quick answerBefore BBL, keep the area out of the sun and avoid tanning, including self-tanner, for at least 2 weeks. Pause retinoids and exfoliating acids on the area for 3 to 7 days, tell us about any medicines and a history of cold sores, and arrive with clean skin and no make-up.

Key facts

Sun and tanningAvoid for at least 2 weeks
Self-tannerNone for 2 weeks
Retinoids and acidsPause 3 to 7 days before
Tell usMedicines, cold sores, pregnancy
On the dayClean skin, no make-up
First visitA test spot may be done

Your checklist

  • Stay out of direct sun and use SPF 50 daily in the weeks before
  • No sunbeds or self-tanner for at least 2 weeks
  • Pause retinol, retinoids, AHAs and BHAs on the area 3 to 7 days before
  • Shave the area the day before if it has hair
  • Remove make-up, creams and fragrance on the day

Medicines and health

Some medicines make skin more sensitive to light, including certain antibiotics and isotretinoin, which usually needs to be stopped for several months first. If you get cold sores and are having the face treated, tell us beforehand. BBL is usually postponed during pregnancy.

Is BBL right for your skin?

BBL suits lighter, untanned skin best. Read is BBL suitable for all skin types? and can I tan before and after BBL?

After your session

Aftercare matters just as much. See what to do after BBL.

Questions people ask

Can I have BBL if I was in the sun last week?

If your skin is tanned or sunburnt, the session is usually postponed until it settles.

Should I stop my skincare before BBL?

Pause retinoids and exfoliating acids on the area for 3 to 7 days; gentle cleanser and moisturiser are fine.

Do I need a test spot?

Often for a first treatment, especially on darker or sensitive skin.

This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, results and the number of sessions vary from person to person and are confirmed by our physician before treatment.

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