Advice
Frequently Asked Questions
General questions about consultations, booking and clinic policy. For treatment-specific answers, see each treatment page.
Consultations
Do I need a consultation before treatment?
Yes for most treatments. A consultation lets us assess your skin, review your medical history and confirm whether a treatment is appropriate before anything is booked.
What happens at a consultation?
We discuss what you would like to change, review your skin, medical history and medication, explain suitable options honestly, and agree a realistic plan.
Will I be pressured into booking?
No. You are welcome to take the information away and think about it. Where a treatment is not right for you, we will say so.
Booking, deposits and cancellations
How do I book an appointment?
Book online through our booking system, message us on WhatsApp, call 07424 445375 or send an enquiry through this website. We are an appointment-only clinic, so everything is arranged in advance.
Do you take a deposit?
A small deposit holds your appointment and comes off the price of your treatment. It is fully refundable if you let us know at least 48 hours beforehand.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please give us at least 48 hours' notice if you need to move or cancel and we will happily rearrange. With less notice we are rarely able to offer the time to someone else, so the deposit is kept.
Laser and patch testing
Why do I need a patch test?
A patch test checks how your skin responds to the planned settings, reducing the risk of an unwanted reaction over a larger area.
How long before treatment is the patch test?
There is a waiting period between the patch test and your first full treatment so any delayed reaction can show. The exact interval is confirmed at your appointment.
Can I have laser treatment if I have been in the sun?
No. Recent sun exposure, sunbed use or fake tan changes how the skin responds and increases risk. Treatment is postponed until the skin has settled.
Preparation and aftercare
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Preparation is treatment-specific. In general: avoid sun and sunbeds, pause strong actives where advised, and arrive with clean skin.
Will I be given aftercare advice?
Yes. Aftercare guidance is given at your appointment, and you can contact the clinic with questions during recovery.
Do I need to wear SPF?
Daily broad-spectrum SPF is recommended after almost every treatment we offer, and is essential when treating pigmentation.
Payment and the clinic
Where is the clinic?
Zazura Skin & Laser Clinic is at 3a Sunderland Road, Gilesgate, Durham DH1 2LH. See the contact page for a map and directions.
How are my records handled?
Your notes, consent forms and any photographs are stored securely in our secure client records system, in line with GDPR. We would never share your images without your written permission.
Will my results look natural?
We work gently and gradually, focusing on balance and skin quality rather than doing everything at once. Results vary from person to person.
Is there parking?
Free parking is available in the Sainsbury's car park at Gilesgate, about a one-minute walk from the clinic. The clinic is on the first floor, accessed by stairs.
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation and we can discuss your concerns, suitability and the treatment options that genuinely make sense for your skin.