How should you prepare for a laser treatment?
Scottsdale laser
Laser skin resurfacing is a popular way to address a variety of skin conditions, including wrinkles and fine lines, sun spots, changes in skin texture, and acne scars. We have a few different lasers available here at the office, and we offer both fractionated and traditional laser treatments. We personalize the treatment to meet each patient’s specific needs.
This is a nonsurgical treatment, but it’s still helpful to do a few things to prepare beforehand. This will maximize your body’s ability to heal, which in turn will help you get the best possible results from your laser skin resurfacing. How can you prepare for your laser treatment? What should you do, and what should you avoid?
What should you do before laser skin resurfacing?
It’s important to protect your skin from the sun in the weeks leading up to your laser treatment, to avoid sun damage. Try to stay inside during the brightest hours of the day, and ensure that whenever you go outside, you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on your face.
You should also talk with your doctor about any prescriptions that might be necessary before your laser procedure. For example, if you get cold sores, then you might be prescribed an antiviral medication to take before your laser procedure. The laser can sometimes provoke a cold sore outbreak in people who are infected with the virus that causes them, and taking an antiviral can help to prevent this.
You may also be prescribed a cream containing isotretinoin to use before your procedure. This increases cell turnover in the skin, which helps to promote healing after your laser treatment. Some people are also advised to use a bleaching cream, to decrease the risk of hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin). The risk of this complication is small, but a bleaching cream can help to further reduce the chances.
If you already take any prescription medications, make sure that you bring this up with your doctor. Certain medications can increase your sensitivity to sunlight, and you might be advised to stop them for a period of time before your laser treatment.
What should you avoid before laser skin resurfacing?
There are also a few important things to avoid as you prepare for your laser skin resurfacing. Certain medications interfere with blood clotting, and this can increase the risk of bleeding after your treatment. Not only is this unpleasant, but it can also interfere with the quality of your results. It’s generally recommended to avoid taking medications like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or aspirin for 5 to 7 days before your laser procedure. If you take any prescription blood thinners, don’t just stop taking those on your own; discuss this with your doctor first.
You’ll also want to avoid exfoliating your skin starting about a week before your procedure. The laser treatment will cause the outer layer of skin to slough off a few days after the treatment. In addition, you may need to stop using certain skin care products, especially those that contain benzoyl peroxide or acids (glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid). These can increase your skin’s sensitivity.
Looking for a Scottsdale laser treatment?
If you’re considering laser skin resurfacing, we invite you to come for a consultation here at our office. After an exam and a discussion of your goals, we’ll let you know whether laser treatments would be a good option for you, and what specific treatment plan is recommended. Dr. Caniglia can also prescribe any needed medications, so you’ll be ready for your laser session. To schedule your consultation, please contact our office.