Resource

Sun exposure should be avoided 4 weeks prior to any light or laser procedure and 2 weeks post procedure. Protective clothing, hats, and mineral based sunscreens with high SPF are recommended. Please ask our team for advice.

Patients who are pregnant, or breast feeding may not have laser or light procedures during this time.

Patients 18 years of age or younger, considering laser or light therapies, they must have written permission from a parent or guardian.

One Week Prior to treatment:

• If you are prone to cold sores, please let our team know before your treatment, and we will provide you with a prescription for Valtrex anti-viral pills. Irritation around the mouth (such as laser treatments or injections) can occasionally trigger a cold sore flare.
• Avoid application of exfoliating products e.g. Retinol, Tretinoin (Retin A), Glycolic Acid and Salicylic acid, Hydroquinone, as well as self tanning creams.
• Avoid waxing, bleaching, or hair removal creams on the areas being treated.

Day of treatment:

• To help with swelling, we recommend drinking plenty of water, and taking an antihistamine such as Aerius, Blexten, Rupall and Reactine, which are available over the counter, starting the morning of your treatment.
• Extra-strength Tylenol can be taken one hour prior to your procedure for analgesia.

Post Care Laser:

Overall, these treatments are easy to tolerate.

• Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling for 2-3 hours after your treatment unless otherwise directed by your technician.
• It is normal to have some redness and swelling. This will resolve within a few days. Some people can experience slight swelling after laser/light therapy, and others may experience marked swelling. Both are NORMAL and are not cause for concern.
• It is normal to have some darkening of pigment, overall bronzing, dryness, and sloughing. These are all signs of the healing process and vary depending on the treatment you have had.
• You may experience mild discomfort for a few days after your treatment. This can be managed by taking regular or extra-strength Tylenol and applying ice packs. If discomfort persists, please contact our office.
• Try to sleep on your back the night of treatment, with your head elevated to minimize swelling if you had a treatment on your face.
• Talk to your technician for recommendations on the optimal skin care regimen post procedure.

Please avoid:

• Strenuous exercise and hot baths and hot showers for 24 hours after treatment.
• Facials, hot yoga, massages, or hot tubs the week following treatment.
• Do not rub, massage, or exfoliate the treated areas unless instructed by your Dermatologist.
• Please avoid active topical creams such as: Retinol, Vitamin A or Glycolic for 7 days after treatment.
• You can resume your normal skin care routine 7 days after your treatment.

Results of treatment can take time for full effect.