Treatment FAQ

after laser skin treatment what is best used

by Alexzander Wintheiser Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Post Laser treatments it is very important to use a minimum of a SPF 30. However, patients are still asked to refrain from sun exposure. Skin laser resurfacing aftercare recommendations depend on the the treatment that was done. For general aftercare, Aquaphor is very helpful for the first week.

The immediate post laser treatment consists of covering the lasered skin with Vaseline (Aquaphor or whatever the specific product you are instructed to use) and using cold packs for discomfort and swelling. The best treatment to be comfortable is to apply cold compresses to the treated areas of the face.

Full Answer

How long does it take to heal after laser treatment?

Your surgeon will most likely recommend a particular type of moisturizer for you to use after a laser treatment. It’s common for people to apply petroleum jelly to the skin after an ablative treatment, such as Fraxel re:pair. The petroleum jelly not only helps to hydrate the skin, but it also forms a protective barrier along the healing skin, keeping germs out.

Does laser treatment really work for Skin brightening?

Mar 18, 2021 · "Antioxidants and retinoids, which build collagen, are absolutely essential after laser treatment," Henry says. "They protect and prevent the skin from further damage, while slowing down the aging...

How to take care of face after laser treatment?

Laser Skin Resurfacing Aftercare: A Definitive Guide to Take Care of Your Skin After Laser Treatments Broadband Light ( BBL) therapy laser treatment specifically targets brown and red spots. It works by heating the upper... Sciton Halo lasers reveal a youthful layer of skin and require no downtime. ...

Will laser treatment rid me of skin cancer?

Immediately After – Right after treatment, the skin is at its most vulnerable—the epidermis needs to be supported to heal. Use our Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology® to promote faster recovery and reduce downtime. Always use as directed by your healthcare provider.

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What products can I use after laser?

Your surgeon will most likely recommend a particular type of moisturizer for you to use after a laser treatment. It's common for people to apply petroleum jelly to the skin after an ablative treatment, such as Fraxel re:pair.

What is the best cream to use after laser?

“Generally, we use Aquaphor Healing Ointment, and once the patient is re-epithelialized we get them off the Aquaphor and switch over to the ceramide cream,” he says. “Healing is very rapid with the ablative fractional resurfacing.”Sep 4, 2008

How do I clean my skin after laser?

Clean The Skin Gently

Gently cleaning the skin means using a soft washcloth as well as using a mild cleanser that doesn't include harsh chemicals. Depending on how strong the fractional laser skin resurfacing treatment was, your medical professional may suggest using a saline solution or other cleanser.
Jul 24, 2018

Can I use vitamin C after laser?

Do not use anything abrasive over the treatment area for 3-5 days. Avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 3-5 days. If treating the face continue to avoid skin irritants or sensitizing agents (such as retinol, tretinoin, glycolic or, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, astringents and Vitamin C) 3-5 days post-treatment.

Can you use coconut oil after laser?

After hair removal treatment, try and use a cream that is as natural as possible – coconut oil is highly recommended. If you want to book laser hair removal, or any other beauty treatment, feel free to book in for a laser hair removal session, or course of sessions via our handy online booking system.Aug 11, 2021

Is aloe vera good after laser treatment?

Use Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is an excellent way to take care of yourself post-laser treatment. Apply the cooling gel to the affected area for up to 3 days after treatment. Aloe vera gel helps to keep your skin moisturized as well as speed the healing process with it's anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.
Sep 28, 2020

Can I use bio oil after laser?

Aloe Vera gel can be applied after the 48 hour period if required to sooth skin. BIO OIL is a must!! This needs to be applied at least once a day after the skin has finishing healing- typically 7 days after treatment. This will greatly reduce the risk of scarring if applied daily and throughout the treatment process.

Can I use Vitamin C after clear and brilliant?

excessive exercise, sweating, swimming, or exposing skin to heat and sun. week or so after a Clear + Brilliant treatment. Moisturizer should be applied one to two times per day. We also recommend using a vitamin C serum daily to help with healing and to decrease pigmentation.

What is fractionated laser?

You can think of fractionated lasers as the next generation of treatments in response to the more aggressive, oft-stigmatized lasers of eras past. "Fractionated lasers arose from the groundbreaking technique of ablative resurfacing, used to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, improve texture, and overall skin quality," says Ava Shamban, a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills. According to Shamban, nonablative lasers essentially heat up the targeted tissue without destroying it — a technique that stimulates the body's generation of collagen production to fill wrinkles, refine skin texture, and even tone.

How do growth factors work?

Growth factors work by promoting the body's production of structural proteins such as collagen and elastin, both of which are key for maintaining skin elasticity, but are also crucial components in skin regeneration. Some dermatologists believe the most effective way to utilize growth factors on your post-laser skin is from a PRP treatment made of your own bio-serum.

What are the most important peptides for wound healing?

Growth Factors. Some dermatologists also recommend growth factors as key peptides that can be helpful to the skin's healing process. "Growth factors are some of the most important peptides in wound healing," Shamban says.

What to do when you have a graf?

When cleansing, Graf advises avoiding hot water, scrubbing your face or drying it roughly, and opting for clean washcloths and towels while the skin is in recovery.

How long does it take for skin to heal after laser treatment?

Because the skin will have begun significantly healing after two to three days, you can wear makeup if you have to run an errand or take a Zoom call. "Opt for mineral makeup during this time," Shamban says. "Often we don't realize that the chemical compounds or ingredients we are trying to avoid in our skin care may be present in our makeup. Don't undo the hard work, effort, and expense [of your laser treatment]."

What to use for laser treatment?

This is the time to use a medical barrier cream that incorporates an occlusive component — oftentimes petrolatum-based — to help form a seal over your compromised skin.

How many daltons does a skin barrier have?

The skin barrier, when healthy, keeps out molecules that are 500 daltons or larger. But when the barrier is compromised by these micro-channels, molecules can gain access to deeper layers of skin, running the risk of reactions and inflammation.

What is the best laser for fine lines?

For those who want to diminish fine lines and texture nuances on the skin with no downtime at all after treatment, the Sciton Halo laser is your best bet. The Halo laser provides aggressive laser resurfacing that will restore your youthful glow without the commitment to hiding away for days as the skin heals.

How to treat skin peeling from laser?

If you’ve chosen a more aggressive laser treatment that requires downtime as the top layer of skin peels off, then you’ll want to make sure you care for the treated area as directed by your provider. Put stronger products like prescription-strength retinoids and exfoliants away for now, and instead, use gentle, moisturizing products such as Aquaphor or petroleum jelly. These products will form a protective barrier over your delicate, healing skin following treatment. They’ll also act as a liquid bandage, protecting your skin from bacteria and other infectious agents. In addition, these skincare products will help trap moisture in the skin and relieve discomfort.

What is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing may be just the thing you need to restore your skin and achieve a more youthful appearance that looks completely natural. Laser treatments range in their abilities, but there are primarily two options we use here at Quintessa Aesthetic Center: BBL lasers and Sciton Halo lasers. Broadband Light ( BBL) therapy laser treatment ...

What to use after laser treatment?

Once your skin is fully healed after laser treatment, you may use your corrective or restorative skincare products once again (as approved by your healthcare provider). These contain more aggressive ingredients such as retinoids which help maintain the results of your laser treatment by fighting wrinkles or by keeping hyperpigmentation at bay. The goal is to encourage a healthy amount of cell turnover and to protect the skin from sun damage and other factors that contribute to the signs of aging. Even though it’s tempting to save money on drug store brands, prescription-strength products usually contain more active ingredients and are only available at medical spas and doctor’s offices.

What is Quintessa skincare?

At Quintessa, we are more than happy to help design a customized skincare plan to meet your post-laser treatment needs with our Aesthetic Advisor Program . Aesthetic needs are so unique that they require specific, personalized guidance. An Aesthetic Advisor is your motivator, educator, and mentor. Having an expert Aesthetic Advisor can also save you money as you no longer need to experiment with products that may not be right for you. At Quintessa, we believe the true essence of beauty begins with relationships. That is why we do our best to understand how to best guide you through your skincare journey after laser treatment and help you maintain satisfactory results long term.

What is BBL laser?

Broadband Light ( BBL) therapy laser treatment specifically targets brown and red spots. It works by heating the upper layers of the skin with non-coherent light. This light energy is absorbed by the brown and red spots, this triggers a chemical process that promotes skin cell and collagen regeneration.

How long does it take for skin to change after laser treatment?

Depending on the type of laser treatment you select, the possibility of redness may be as short as a couple of hours or as long as several days post treatment. After a BBL or Halo laser treatment, patients can expect the former. Furthermore, some amount of skin peeling afterward is to be expected.

What is fractional laser?

Fractional lasers meet the skin in a distinct pixelated pattern. This causes tiny holes to be created in the skin, which helps the skin heal faster.

What is facial laser therapy?

Here’s a quick rundown of the main types of facial laser therapies you may be considering: Laser Hair Removal – This process uses a laser to damage hair follicles and delays unwanted hair growth in certain areas. It often takes several laser appointments to maintain the desired results.1.

What are the two types of laser treatments?

The two main types of aesthetic laser treatments are laser hair removal and skin resurfacing. To grasp why conditioning your face before a treatment is vital, you first have to understand just how intensive they can be. Here’s a quick rundown of the main types of facial laser therapies you may be considering:

How to stop itchiness after laser resurfacing?

Chemical exfoliants, like glycolic acid-laced peels and fruit enzymes (even the most gentle!). Straying away from these is a great way to stop itchiness after laser resurfacing. Scented lotions, cleansers, and serums because they can also cause redness and irritation. UV exposure at least one week after treatment.

Why do dermatologists use fractional lasers?

Another reason dermatologists prefer fractional lasers? Fractional lasers reduce downtime, they tend to be safer, and they have more predictable results than non-fractional lasers.

What is the difference between ablative and non-ablative lasers?

The main differences between ablative and non-ablative lasers are their recovery time, level of invasiveness, and effectiveness. Because ablative lasers are more intensive, they require more downtime to heal. Non-ablative lasers are less invasive, which reduces your recovery time.

How many nonablative treatments are needed for laser?

However, the deeper the laser goes, the more results you’ll see. For example, it would take between 4-6 non-ablative treatments to achieve the same results as just 1-2 ablative procedures. So even though you’ll need more downtime, you’ll need fewer treatments.

How to care for skin after laser?

Proper skin care after a laser is extremely important to make the most of your laser treatment and help the skin heal as quickly and safely as possible to maximize your results. After a standard resurfacing treatment, the skin should remain completely moist until the top layer (epithelium) has healed. My patients are instructed to use a thin layer of Aquaphor around the clock. I also instruct patients to gently clean the skin with warm water and a gentle facial cleanser. This should be performed once a day, either in the morning or evening. After the gentle cleansing, do not rub the skin dry, simply pat dry with a soft cloth. I then recommend a vinegar soak for its antibacterial and fungicidal properties. I have patients dilute 1-2 tablespoons of white vinegar in 1 gallon of water. Using a cloth the vinegar solution is pat all over the face where the laser was performed. After the vinegar soak, I have my patients re-apply Aquaphor. This is repeated daily until the top skin layer has healed. There are a numer of post laser facial masks that I will use for deap resurfacing, inclduing some by Skin Ceuticals. This is something I do in the office, not something you need to do at home. I will also offer PRP after the laser to add additional growth factors to promote healing and collagen production. Again this is something I do in the office, not something you would do at home. It is extremely important to avoid all sun exposure during the immediate post-laser phase. Once the skin has healed, I have patients begin using SPF 30 (at a minimum) until the redness has subsided. For patients at higher risk of hyperpigmetation after a laser I will pre-treat them with a tretinoin cream and hydroquinone and then restart the combination after the skin has healed until the redness has resolved. I see patients back anywhere from 3-7 days after the treatment (depends on the treatment) and then at week 2-4 to check in on the healing process.

How long after laser resurfacing is Aquaphor good for?

Skin laser resurfacing aftercare recommendations depend on the the treatment that was done. For general aftercare, Aquaphor is very helpful for the first week. Patients purchase Emollience by SkinCeuticals to use for the second week and beyond.

How to care for fractional C02 laser?

For fractional C02 laser resurfacing, we recommend careful cleaning, vinegar soaks, and thick layer all over treated areas of Alastin Soothe & Protect ointment during first 2 to 3 days post procedure to prevent crusting. We also love the benefits of applying Alastin Skin Regenerating Nectar pre and post treatment for all of our laser treatments. Alastin Skin Regenerating Nectar facilitates healing, support the skin’s natural regeneration process, reduce inflammation, and enhance treatment results. Once your skin is healed, use your SPF daily!

How long to soak after C02 laser?

For fractional C02 laser resurfacing, we recommend careful cleaning, vinegar soaks, and thick layer all over treated areas of Alastin Soothe & Protect ointment during first 2 to 3 days post procedure to prevent crusting. We also love the benefits of applying Alastin Skin Regenerating Nectar pre and post treatment for all of our laser treatments. Alastin Skin Regenerating Nectar facilitates healing, support the skin’s natural regeneration process, reduce inflammation, and enhance treatment results. Once your skin is healed, use your SPF daily!

Ablative and non-ablative lasers

Laser skin resurfacing targets the skin using lasers to improve minor facial flaws. Learning about the specific techniques and risks can help you decide if this is right for you. Patients can get either an ablative or non-ablative treatment based on their goals and available downtime.

Laser skin resurfacing side effects

Southside Dermatology & Laser Cosmetic Center will give you an ointment to help with laser skin resurfacing side effects. Temporary redness and mild swelling are expected, which is why we stress taking good care of your skin. Patients should expect their skin to feel sensitive following treatment, similar to getting a mild sunburn at the beach.

Laser skin resurfacing recovery

To make the most of your laser skin resurfacing treatment, follow these simple aftercare tips. We hope to ensure you have a problem-free recovery.

Skin rejuvenation in Jacksonville

By offering laser skin resurfacing for patients in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL, Southside Dermatology & Laser Cosmetic Center hopes to help people look and feel their best. If you are considering this treatment and want to learn more, contact a member of our friendly and knowledgeable team to get a consultation.

What to avoid after a syringe?

What to avoid. “Avoid applying your own skincare or makeup on the day after the treatment to prevent infection and any makeup brushes or sponges on the day of the treatment, as these are often contaminated with bacteria,” advises Dr Williams.

What is mesotherapy for skin?

Mesotherapy. A treatment that involves infusing a sterile, cell-boosting cocktail of more than 50 key skin optimisation ingredients into skin (ranging from vitamins to minerals and amino acids) to protect and stimulate cells. MORE GLOSS: How mesotherapy works (and why it’s not just for your face)

What is PRP injection?

PRP involves injecting a mixture of growth factors (from the patient’s blood or from a commercially available growth factor solution), and hyaluronic acid skin boosters, into the patient’s skin to boost its ability to build collagen and elastin.

What is collagen induction therapy?

Also known as collagen induction therapy, the treatment involves the use of an automatic needle pen containing sterile, ultra-fine needles (otherwise known as a ‘DermaPen’ or ‘DermalRoller’), to create microscopic punctures in the dermis. This activates the skin's wound-healing responses and leads to increased collagen production for firmer, more elastic skin. It also helps with enlarged pores and acne scarring too.

How to cover redness after a facial?

Covering redness and potential bruising with special post-procedure makeup (“Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the skin – or best, let the therapist apply the products,” recommends Dr Williams)

What is an ablative laser?

Ablative laser treatments are ones that involve removing the top layers of the skin (either fully, or in columns leaving undamaged skin islands in between). Examples are technologies such as Erb-Yag or CO2 lasers, which are used for improving skin surface and texture.

How long should I wait to use anti-pigment cream?

Dr Williams recommends using anti-pigment products four to eight weeks prior to treatment and eight weeks after each treatment session in order to get better results.

What to use after laser treatment?

Moisturizing is important after any type of laser treatment; just make sure to stick with fairly plain, fragrance-free formulas. (Anything geared toward sensitive skin is a good bet.) Since the skin’s moisture barrier takes a beating during Fraxel, Dr. MacGregor also recommends using a product that contains ceramides, which are essential ingredients for helping to repair and maintain this delicate layer. “I like this cream because it has both ceramides and growth factors to help hasten the recovery process,” she explains.

How long does it take for a skin to heal after a fraxel?

Here’s the downside, though: You’ll need a minimum of five days of recovery post-Fraxel. During this period, you’ll experience lots of redness and peeling, and it’s important to be judicious about what products you’re using. The key is to be gentle with your newly sensitized skin and give it the tools it needs to heal. To determine exactly what’s best to use, we asked a few experts to share the products they personally reach for after getting Fraxel. If you’re planning on going under the laser, be sure to pick up one of the below picks beforehand—you’ll be happy you did.

Does fraxel help with sunburn?

Expect your skin to look—and feel—sunburned for a few days after Fraxel, making any type of cooling and/or soothing products a major win. Dr. Carqueville reaches for this gentle gel in the days following. “I love this for calming and cooling the skin post-laser,” she says. “It’s made mostly of water, glycerin, and bromelain, an enzyme naturally found in pineapple that reduces inflammation and bruising.” And thanks to the wallet-friendly price tag, you can slather it on with reckless abandon.

Does fractional laser make your skin look better?

Anyone who’s ever tried Fraxel will tell you, it can make your skin look amazing… but only after it makes your skin look worse. The fractional laser is a skin-resurfacing treatment that creates microtraumas deep within the skin. This ultimately results in both a smoother texture and a more even tone as well as an improvement in laxity and even ...

Is a laser cleanser hypoallergenic?

It’s hypoallergenic and is recommended for people with sensitive skin—which is what someone has after a laser treatment—but is still an effective cleanser. You can follow up this cleanser with a DIY toner of sorts, a go-to move for Chicago board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jordan Carqueville.

Does hyaluronic acid help with redness?

Nussbaum’s favorites. Using botanical extracts, a calming peptide, and hydrating hyaluronic acid, it goes to work fast, “soothing skin, alleviating redness, and calming inflammation,” she explains. The gel also has a cooling effect (even more so, if you stash it in the fridge), and you can either rinse it off after 15 minutes or leave on a thin layer as an overnight treatment.

Can you use SkinBetter twice a day?

As is the case with the SkinBetter antioxidant serum, she likes using it twice daily. Given that your skin has little ‘holes’ in it after Fraxel, all the active ingredients in these types of antioxidant-based serums can better penetrate. “Personally, I don’t want to miss out on any of those results,” she says.

What to expect after a fractional laser?

Downtime after fractional laser, such as Fraxel, is considerably shorter and much milder than ablative laser treatment. Patients can expect to appear as if they have a sunburn, to have mild discoloration, or to be mildly swollen for three to five days," Kolker explains.

How effective is a nonablative laser?

Effectiveness: Kokler tells us that "non-ablative lasers are also extremely effective at restoring youth and beauty to the skin." That being said, he also explains that "non-ablative fractional laser often require several treatments for the most effective results. There are two laser wavelengths: The 1550nm fractional laser is effective in treating very fine lines of the face, neck, hands, and decolletage, and improving general skin health. The 1927 wavelength laser is highly effective at treating discoloration of the skin."

What is an ablative laser?

Ablative Laser Treatments. What It Targets: Improves "skin tone and texture as well as a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, " says Kolker. These are also often used to treat warts, scars, and other stubborn issues.

What does laser light do to the skin?

Adam Kolker, MD, FACS, summarizes, "All laser light treatments target various colors within the skin to achieve their results. When the laser energy finds these targets, they super-heat them to create a very controlled 'injury' to the skin that stimulates the body’s natural healing processes."

What is laser treatment?

What Are Laser Treatments? Laser treatments direct short, concentrated, pulsating light beams at skin irregularities to promote collagen growth and remove skin layers. They're used on everything from acne scars and tattoos, to hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. @emmahoareau.

What is Kolker's philosophy?

What It Targets: Kolker tells us "they are very good for improving color balance within the skin by reducing areas of redness or hyperpigmentation.". These treatments are meant to restore a youthful, glowing complexion.

Which laser is the most effective?

Effectiveness: "The most effective of all lasers remain the ablative group. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) lasers generally require the fewest number of treatments to achieve significant improvements," says Kolker.

What Causes Scars?

Scars are the result of an injury or trauma to your skin. The severity of this type of injury varies, with more serious injury resulting in bigger and deeper scars.

What Is Laser Scar Treatment?

Laser treatment is also referred to as laser skin resurfacing or laser scar revision. This treatment can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and skin lesions, as well as scars. It can be effective even several years after a scar has formed.

How Does Laser Scar Removal Work?

There are two types of laser treatment available, including CO2 laser therapy and fractional laser therapy.

What Can You Expect After Laser Scar Removal?

After the laser treatment, a bandage will be applied and should be left on for 24 hours. After that, you should clean the area between 2 to 5 times per day with a saline solution or a diluted vinegar solution. You can also apply a healing ointment, like Eucerin or Aquaphor. The goal is to prevent a scab from forming.

Are There Complications of Laser Scar Removal?

There are some possible side effects of using laser treatment, including:

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