To ensure the best possible results and minimize the risk of complications, please follow these guidelines prior to your laser treatment:

6 Months Before Treatment:

• Accutane: Discontinue use of Accutane for 6 months prior to your treatment.

3-4 Weeks Before Treatment:

• Sun Exposure: Avoid sun exposure and self-tanning for 3-4 weeks before your treatment.
  Important: Your treatment may need to be rescheduled if you are suntanned in the area to be treated. The increased pigment from a suntan can be absorbed by the laser beam and increase the risk for complications. If you have a tan, please schedule treatments after it has faded.

2 Weeks Before Treatment:

• Avoid Other Aesthetic Treatments:
  Discontinue any chemical peels, laser hair removal, laser resurfacing, or Botox/filler treatments 2 weeks before your procedure.

1 Week Before Treatment:

• Avoid Exfoliants:
  Discontinue the use of products containing alpha and beta hydroxy acids (such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid), retinol, and other exfoliants 1 week before treatment.

General Downtime Information:

• Minimal Downtime: Laser treatments typically have minimal downtime. You may experience redness, mild swelling, and a sunburn-like sensation for a few days after the treatment.

  • Most patients return to normal activities quickly and can cover any discoloration with makeup. However, some areas, particularly treated vessels, may crust and fall off within a week.

Following these instructions will help ensure the best results and minimize the risk of complications:

Immediately After Treatment:

• Gentle Care: Be gentle with the treated area. Do not scratch or pick at your skin, as this can lead to scarring.

• Redness, Swelling, and Sunburn Sensation: These are normal reactions and can last from a few hours to several days. Applying an ice pack intermittently for the first 24 hours will help minimize swelling.

• Avoid Activities that Cause Flushing or Excessive Perspiration: For at least 48 hours, avoid:

  • Strenuous exercise

  • Hot temperatures (e.g., saunas, hot showers)

  • Alcohol or spicy foods

  • Anything that may cause excessive sweating or flushing

• Pain Management: Post-treatment discomfort is usually mild. If needed, oral pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil can be used.

Skin Care and Healing:

• Crusting: If crusting occurs, apply a thin layer of Vaseline ointment twice a day to the affected areas. Do not pick at these areas, as this can lead to infection or scarring.

• Makeup: Makeup can be applied 24 hours after treatment, as long as skin integrity has not been compromised.

Moisturize and Protect from Sun Exposure:

• Keep the treated area moist and avoid direct sunlight for 7-14 days after the procedure. The treated area is more sensitive and prone to sunburn or pigmentation changes.

  • Use a mineral based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and reapply every 2 hours if you are in the sun.

• Blistering: Delayed blistering from sun exposure may occur up to 72 hours post-treatment.

Avoid Harsh Products and Conditions:

• Until the swelling has resolved and the tissue has fully healed, avoid:

  • Scented lotions or soaps

  • Exfoliating creams (Retin-A, glycolic/salicylic acids, AHAs)

  • Acne creams or gels

  • Loofa sponges and aggressive scrubbing

  • Hot or cold water

  • Shaving the treated area

  • Swimming pools and spas with chlorine or chemicals

Timing: Subsequent laser treatments are generally spaced about 6 weeks apart, depending on your provider’s recommendation and the area treated.