Aftercare following laser treatments is crucial to ensure proper healing, minimize complications, and maximize the effectiveness of the treatment. While specific aftercare instructions may vary depending on the type of laser treatment and individual circumstances, here are some general guidelines for the best laser aftercare protocol. This is just a recommendation based on Dr. Anna Avaliani’s approach to after laser care and every physician has their own approach and recommendations. The following recommendations are really strongsuggestions.
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- Follow Post-Treatment Instructions: Rule #1 is to Always adhere to the post-treatment instructions provided by your doctor. They will provide specific guidance based on the type of laser treatment, the treated area, and your skin type.
- Protect Your Skin from the Sun: SPF 30 + Vit CE Ferulic Sun protection is essential after laser treatments.Avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak sun hours of10am-4pm. Mineral based sunscreen with SPF over 30 is always recommended. Use tinted or universal tinted sunscreens to avoid the white “ghost like” look. Apply 30 minutes before leaving your home. Must add topical Vit C&E serums for increased protection. The holy grail is Vit CE Ferulicwith tons of science to back it up. Wear protective clothing with long sleeves if your body was treated (arms, chest, abdomen) Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat. Reapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to the treated area and reapply as directed. Avoid IR saunas and Steam rooms for 3-5 days. Even Cryo sauna treatments.
- Keep the Treated Area Clean: To be on safer side, please avoid make up for full 24 hours after any laser procedure that involved resurfacing of your skin (ablative vs or non-ablative and all types of microneedling) If you had radio frequency like TempSure Envi or ultrasound type of treatment like Ultherapy, then make up application is safe immediately after your treatments as the skin barrier is intact.
- Moisturize Regularly: Keep the treated area well-hydrated by applying a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer recommended by your healthcare professional. Moisturizing helps maintain the skin’s barrier function, promotes healing, and reduces dryness or discomfort. It is best to consult what to apply as there are many medical grade options out there that have been safely tested for application after lasers. There are even creams that expedite the healing and help reduce redness. Avoid using any skincare products that may irritate or interfere with the healing process. You may even use different moisturizers in the summer time vs winter time. Light weight is better for the summer and more moisturizing and hydrating in the winter as the air is less humid.
- Avoid Picking or Scratching: It’s important to refrain from picking, scratching, or peeling any scabs or crusts that may form on the treated area. Let the skin naturally heal and avoid any unnecessary trauma or irritation. Picking at the treated area can increase the risk of infection, scarring, or pigmentation changes.
- Gentle cleansers : During the initial healing period, it’s advisable to avoid activities that can generate excessive heat or cause excessive sweating. This includes hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, intense workouts, or activities that may lead to excessive perspiration. Excessive heat or sweat can irritate the treated skin and impede the healing process for the first 3 days after the procedure.
- Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Drink plenty of water to keep your body and skin hydrated. A well-hydrated body supports optimal healing. Additionally, maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. These factors contribute to overall skin health and can enhance the healing process.
- Avoid retinols or retinoids for 3-5 days prior and 3-5 days after for non ablative lasers. For super sensitive skins, avoiding them for a full 7-10 days is likely optimal, but it is best to discuss with your treating physician.
- Avoid exfoliation for 1 week before and one week after.
- Reapply SPF!!! Ideally every 1-2 hrs Between prime time of sun exposure of 10 am-4pm. Even if you are indoors. Even when you are driving in the car. Even when you are next to a window. Do not make a mistake of applying SPF 100 and thinking it will last for the whole day. Reapplication of sun screen is very important.
Dr.AnnaAvaliani’s state of the art lacer center on Park Avenue offers a full spectrum laser technology to treat any concern on the face or the body with over 30 different lasers offered in one place. To schedule your expert consultation, call/text 212-673-8888 or visit www. dr.avaliani.com
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