Comprehensive Guide: Laser Skin Resurfacing Pre-Care and After-Care Instructions
Introduction
Laser skin resurfacing at Beau Visage Aesthetics in Walnut Creek is a transformative treatment designed to rejuvenate your skin by addressing wrinkles, scars, and blemishes. To ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery, proper pre-care and after-care are essential. At Beau Visage Aesthetics, treatments are led by Dr. Moazemi, a highly experienced practitioner dedicated to delivering exceptional care. For an overview of how laser treatments work, visit the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Additionally, the Mayo Clinic provides comprehensive insights into the benefits and considerations of laser skin resurfacing. In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions to help you prepare for and recover from your treatment.
DON’TS
ExposeYour Skin To Sun and UV Avoid tanning or heavy UV exposure to the treatment area for at least one month before your laser skin resurfacing. Sun exposure increases the risk of complications like hyperpigmentation.
Use Aggressive Skincare Treatments Refrain from deep facial peels, aggressive exfoliation, or dermabrasion procedures for at least four weeks before treatment to avoid skin irritation.
Take Photosensitizing Medications Stop medications like doxycycline or minocycline that increase sun sensitivity at least one week before your appointment, with approval from your doctor.
Apply Harsh Cosmetic Products Avoid using makeup, retinol, or strong skincare products for three days before your treatment unless instructed otherwise by your provider.
DO‘S
Apply Sunscreen Daily Start using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher one month before your treatment. This ensures your skin is protected from UV damage and ready for laser resurfacing.
Inform Your Practitioner About Medical Conditions Let your provider know if you’ve experienced cold sores or shingles in the treatment area. They may recommend starting antiviral medication like valacyclovir or acyclovir two days before and continuing for three days after the procedure.
Follow Your Recommended Skincare Routine Use any topical creams or prescribed skincare treatments consistently for one month before the procedure, as recommended by your doctor.
Stay Hydrated and Healthy Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to promote overall skin health in preparation for your treatment.List item
After-Care Instructions for Laser Skin Resurfacing
Redness and Sensitivity: Expect your skin to appear red, sensitive, and sunburned immediately after laser resurfacing. Swelling, itching, and stinging may persist for a few days.
Cool Compresses for Relief: Use a cool compress or ice pack wrapped in a towel for 15 minutes every 1–2 hours during the first 24–48 hours to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Moisturize Regularly: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or an occlusive moisturizer twice daily until redness subsides. Avoid using products like bacitracin or Neosporin, which can irritate the skin.
Cleaning and Caring for the Treated Area
Avoid Shaving or Makeup Initially: Wait at least two days before applying makeup or shaving the treated area.
Vinegar Solution Cleansing: Clean the treated area twice daily using a vinegar solution (1 teaspoon white vinegar in 2 cups of water). Soak gauze in the solution and apply it to the skin for 10–15 minutes. Use gentle pressure to wipe the area.
Protect Your Skin: Avoid direct sun exposure, hot tubs, chlorine pools, and saunas until your skin heals (typically 7–10 days).
Lifestyle Adjustments During Recovery
Sleep with Your Head Elevated: Sleep on your back with an extra pillow for the first four nights to reduce facial swelling.
Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from exercise or activities that cause flushing for at least two weeks after treatment.
Peeling and New Skin Formation: Expect peeling around 3–7 days post-treatment. Allow your skin to shed naturally; do not pick or scratch at peeling skin.
Avoid smoking: Smoking slows the healing process
After Healing: Maintaining Results
Daily Sunscreen Use: Once your skin heals, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect against UV damage and prolong your results.
Moisturize Regularly: Keep your skin hydrated by using a doctor-recommended moisturizer tailor to your skin type.
Customized Skincare Routine: Work with your practitioner to develop a skincare regimen that includes gentle cleansers, antioxidants, and nourishing serums to maintain your rejuvenated skin.
What to Expect After Laser Skin Resurfacing
• Immediate Results: You’ll notice smoother, more radiant skin soon after treatment. • Gradual Improvement: Skin tone and texture will continue to improve over the next few weeks. Depending on the intensity of your treatment, redness may linger for a few weeks but will fade. • Long-Term Benefits: The benefits of laser skin resurfacing can last for years with proper care. Future aging, wrinkles, and blemishes can be treated with subsequent laser sessions.
FAQ:
Q: How long does it take to heal after laser skin resurfacing?
A: Healing time varies based on treatment intensity, but most patients recover within 7–10 days.
Q: Can I wear makeup after the procedure?
A: Makeup can usually be applied 48 hours after treatment, once the skin is less sensitive.
