What You Should Know Before and After a Laser Treatment

Put simply, lasers are devices that create narrow beams of light at a specific wavelength. They are used in all kinds of technology, including everything from optical disc drives and welding materials to cosmetic skincare. Dermatologists utilize laser treatments in a process called laser skin resurfacing to remove damaged skin and address blotchy pigmentation on the outer surface while encouraging rejuvenating collagen production and cell turnover in the internal layers. Laser skin resurfacing is a low-maintenance, straightforward treatment, but to ensure optimal results, patients need to know what they should do in preparation for the procedure, as well as what aftercare generally involves. Here are some of the lesser-known aspects about preparing for and healing after a laser skin resurfacing treatment, which patients who are interested in having the procedure should know about, according to Pierre Skin Care Institute’s specialists in dermatology from Westlake Village.

Before Laser Skin Resurfacing

Choose the Right Provider

Lasers are safe, but safest when operated by specially trained and experienced providers. The physician you choose for your laser skin resurfacing procedure should have extensive experience, skill, training, and qualifications to know how to achieve the best cosmetic results possible. Choosing a provider who offers prices “too good to be true” in an effort to cut costs could lead to poor results.

Wait Until Your Acne is Under Control

Laser treatments are ideal for minimizing the scars and changes in pigmentation that many people who have acne tend to get, but these procedures aren’t designed for people who have active or severe cystic acne. If you’re bothered by breakouts, try medications and other treatments first. Let your provider know beforehand if you’re taking medication for acne, as some kinds of drugs can interfere with the effectiveness of laser skin resurfacing.

Don’t Use Retinols

Retinols are powerful antioxidants used for exfoliating the skin to clear away dead cells and give the surface a smoother, brighter appearance. They’re recommended for your skin routine, but be sure to avoid them for a week or two before and after having laser treatments, as they can dry out or irritate the skin and increase the risk of such complications as burns from lasers—especially if you already have a sensitive skin type. Go ahead and ditch any acids or substances that are similar to retinols, as well, in preparation for lasers.

Plan for Some Downtime

It normally takes around two or three weeks to recover from ablative lasers. The recovery from laser skin resurfacing isn’t as long or uncomfortable as that of plastic surgery procedures, but you may wish to avoid certain social events due to your skin being red, bruised, and flaky as it heals.

After Laser Skin Resurfacing

Stay Away from Gyms and Swimming Pools

You might also prefer to hold off on some other activities for a few days, depending on how your skin reacts to the treatment. Generally, avoid high-impact exercise, gyms, swimming, and outdoor activities that expose you to sunlight. Your skin will be ultra-sensitive to sunlight after a laser treatment, so ultraviolet radiation exposure could cause permanent hyperpigmentation. The bacteria from certain environments like gyms can also increase the risk of infections.

Be Gentle with Your Skin

When you’ve had laser treatments, your skin will feel as if it’s had a mild wound or slight sunburn. Avoid any exfoliating, harsh, or active ingredients right after you’ve had laser skin resurfacing. This includes alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, and products that contain retinol. Products that contain common ingredients like glycolic acid, hydroquinone, and salicylic acid are also known to increase sun sensitivity. Keep your skin clean with a mild cleanser, moisturize daily if your physician recommends it, and wear high SPF sunscreen. There’s no need to get rid of all of your acids completely. You can eventually resume using them.

Skin resurfacing procedures improve an extensive range of tone and texture complaints. Get more information on cosmetic dermatology from Westlake Village’s Pierre Skin Care Institute. Call 805-496-9190 to book a consultation for laser skin resurfacing, or submit a contact form.