Your skin's response matters.
Your patch test is an important part of preparing for laser hair removal at Seven Skin. It allows us to assess how your skin responds to the laser before deciding whether to proceed with treatment.
Please read the following guidance carefully and refer back to it throughout your observation period.
What to expect after your patch test
Following your patch test, you may notice some temporary changes in the treated area, including:
Mild redness or pinkness
A warm or slightly sensitive sensation
Minor swelling around individual hair follicles
Temporary tenderness or irritation
These responses are generally short-lived and should gradually settle.
Some reactions may develop several hours after your appointment, which is why continued monitoring is important.
Your skin should become progressively more comfortable, not increasingly painful or irritated.
Caring for your skin
For the first 24–48 hours, or until your skin has fully settled:
Avoid hot baths, hot showers, saunas, steam rooms and other sources of excessive heat.
Avoid vigorous exercise and activities that cause excessive sweating.
Avoid scratching, rubbing, exfoliating or applying unnecessary friction to the area.
Avoid fragranced products, harsh cleansers and potentially irritating skincare on the treated skin.
Do not use retinoids, exfoliating acids, scrubs or other active skincare ingredients on the area until it has recovered and you have been advised they are suitable.
Keep the area clean, using gentle skincare and lukewarm water.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing if the patch test was performed in an area exposed to friction.
If your skin feels warm or uncomfortable, a clean, cool compress may help. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin.
Only apply soothing products specifically recommended by your practitioner.
Sun exposure and skin protection
Recently laser-treated skin may be more sensitive to ultraviolet exposure.
Avoid direct sun exposure on the patch test area while your skin recovers.
Do not use sunbeds or apply fake tan to the treated area.
Protect exposed skin with clothing or shade.
Once the skin is intact and comfortable, use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply as directed.
Please inform Seven Skin of any sun exposure, tanning or changes in your skin before proceeding with further treatment.
Monitoring your patch test
Your patch test needs time to be assessed before a full treatment can be considered.
Monitor the treated area for the observation period advised during your consultation, including at least the first 48 hours where this is consistent with your treatment protocol.
Check the area periodically for changes in:
Redness or swelling
Sensitivity, discomfort or itching
Skin colour or appearance
Blistering, crusting or unexpected irritation
Some delayed responses may occur after the initial observation period.
If you notice an unexpected reaction, take clear photographs in good lighting and contact Seven Skin promptly.
Please do not wait until your next appointment to report a concern.
When to contact Seven Skin
Contact the clinic promptly if you experience:
Redness or swelling that becomes more pronounced rather than settling
Persistent or worsening itching, tenderness or irritation
Unexpected changes in skin colour
Blistering, crusting, weeping or broken skin
Any reaction that concerns you or differs from what was discussed during your consultation
Photographs may help us assess the appearance of the area, although an in-person assessment or medical review may still be necessary.
Do not proceed with further laser treatment until any unexpected reaction has been reviewed.
When to seek medical attention
Although uncommon, burns and other complications can occur following laser exposure.
If you suspect a burn, cool the affected skin under cool running water for 20 minutes as soon as possible. Do not apply ice, oils or creams to a fresh burn, and do not burst any blisters.
Seek urgent medical advice through NHS 111 for blistering, suspected burns, increasing pain, signs of infection or symptoms you are uncertain about.
For a large or deep burn, a burn affecting the face or genital area, or another serious injury, seek emergency care through A&E or 999 as appropriate.
If you develop difficulty breathing, swelling of your tongue or throat, or symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, call 999.
Do not delay medical attention while waiting for a response from Seven Skin. Please also inform the clinic as soon as reasonably possible so your treatment records can be updated.
What happens after your patch test?
Your patch test is reviewed alongside your consultation findings, medical history, skin assessment and any reactions you report.
A satisfactory patch test does not guarantee that an adverse reaction cannot occur during future treatment.
Before proceeding, you must inform Seven Skin of any changes to your health, medication, skincare, tanning, sun exposure or skin condition.
Further patch testing, adjustments to treatment settings or postponement may be required.
A consultation and patch test do not commit you to treatment. Your suitability will be assessed before any treatment plan is confirmed.
Questions or concerns?
If you are uncertain about your skin's response or would like further guidance, please contact Seven Skin.
WhatsApp: 07311 365599
Email: hello@sevenskinclinic.com
Please include your name, appointment date, the area tested and clear photographs where appropriate.
Messages may not be monitored continuously. For urgent medical concerns, contact NHS 111 or emergency services rather than waiting for a clinic response.
This guidance supports the individual instructions provided during your consultation. If you have been given specific aftercare directions for your skin or treatment, please follow those instructions. This page does not replace professional medical advice.