how to protect face after laser treatment

5 Tips for Protecting Your Skin After a Laser Treatment.

• 1. Moisturize your skin. Laser treatments create tiny, controlled trauma to your skin to help encourage collagen regrowth. To aid in the process, we ...
• 2. Lather on the SPF.
• 3. Go makeup-free.
• 4. Wait to exercise.
• 5. Don’t smoke.

Full Answer

How to take care of your skin after a laser treatment?

Think of your skin as a wound after a laser treatment and treat it as such. For best results, keep your skin hydrated, moist, clean and protected from the sun. “Gentle products that contain peptides should be your go-to.

What are laser treatments and how can they improve your skin?

In fact, laser treatments “can improve skin cell turnover, stimulate collagen and elastin, minimise pore size, treat scarring, remove redness and pigmentation, even skin tone and result in smoother, glowing and younger-looking skin,” explains King. With a CV like that, it’s no wonder they’re so popular!

Do you need antioxidants after laser treatment?

"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 process and enhancing overall skin tone.

When can I exfoliate my face after laser treatment?

“Two weeks after the laser, patients are ready for manual skin exfoliation ,” says Dr. Swanson. “I find that dermaplaning works well to help get all the additional transitional skin off and create a non-flaky appearance.” Dr. Smith says patients are often given a balm to use following laser treatment.

How can I protect my skin after laser treatment?

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.

How can I protect my face after laser hair removal?

Avoid excessive scrubbing or applying pressure to the skin for 4-5 days. This is to allow the treated skin to recover and to prevent any infection. Avoid shaving the treated area for 72 hours after treatment. Avoid exercising for at least 48 hours.

What should I avoid after laser treatment?

Laser hair removal aftercare don'tsSpace recurring treatments no sooner than 4 to 6 weeks apart. ... Don't tan. ... Don't use tanning lotions. ... Don't apply lotions with fragrances or perfumes to the treatment area. ... Don't apply deodorant to the underarms if laser hair treatment was targeted in this area.More items...•

Can I put moisturizer after laser treatment?

Should You Moisturize After Laser Hair Removal? Good question! In short, we recommend using a gentle, fragrance-free lotion after your laser hair removal sessions. Some people opt to apply aloe vera to their skin due to its soothing properties.

Can I put ice on my face after laser?

You can ice your treatment area up to 10 minutes at a time because icing the area any longer can interfere with healing. If you still feel uncomfortable, you can wait an hour and reapply the ice pack or cold compress, repeating this process no more than two to three times a day.

Can I use coconut oil after laser hair removal?

We even recommend it for use after some laser treatments as it is naturally anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and it protects the skin.

Can I put aloe vera on my face 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.

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.

What should I do after laser?

Post CareRedness & Bumps are normal. ... Cleanse the area treated gently. ... No makeup & lotion/moisturizer/deodorant for the first 24 hours. ... Dead hairs will begin to shed 5-30 days after your treatment. ... Exfoliate to speed up hair shedding. ... Avoid the sun. ... Do not pick/scratch/wax/thread/tweeze the area. ... Hair growth varies.

Can I put oil on my skin after laser?

Up to Four Days After Treatment This is because the lasers have created microscopic wounds in the layers of the skin where imperfections lay. Using makeup can interfere with the healing process. For those who experience peeling, it's best to wait until the skin stops peeling before applying an oil-free foundation.

What creams to use after laser?

We recommend topical creams such as Restorative Gel, Lux MD, aloe, calamine, or hydrocortisone to be applied to the treatment area. Allow a minimum of 7 to 14 days post-treatment for hair to “fall out" or shed from the skin.

Can I put makeup after laser?

Avoid scratching the treated region after laser hair removal. You can wear makeup immediately after laser hair removal to help hide the redness. However if there is any blistering or crusting, its better to avoid makeup as the makeup can cause some allergic reaction to broken skin.

How to get rid of a swollen face after laser?

Wait to exercise. Exercising may be part of your daily routine, but it’s important to change your routine or skip the gym altogether for at least a week following your laser procedure. Vigorous activity can flush your skin and create discomfort. When you exercise, you are likely to sweat which can also irritate your skin.

How to get rid of pigmentation on skin?

Make a point to stay in the shade or wear a hat if you must go outside. Your skin will thank you! 3. Go makeup-free.

Why do you put petroleum jelly on your skin?

This helps shield your skin from germs and keeps you feeling comfortable. While you are healing, it is incredibly important to keep your skin tissues moisturized so the epidermis can grow.

Can you cover your face with makeup after laser?

Go makeup-free. Your skin will be red after your laser treatment so it might be tempting to cover it up with foundation. However, the chemicals in your makeup can interfere with the healing process and may cause you more discomfort.

Can you go to the beach without sunscreen?

Going to the beach without sunscreen may have seemed like a good idea when you were younger, simply a way to get a nice tan. But now, as wrinkles and sunspots start to appear, you probably wish you would have lathered up and prevented damage to your skin. Although you can’t turn back time to change your past decisions, ...

Can you smoke while laser resurfacing?

Don’t smoke. Smoking is a common underlying cause of skin damage, and while you’re healing from laser resurfacing, it can increase your risk of complications and unpleasant side effects. The harmful substances in cigarette smoke may derail the healing process and further irritate your skin.

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.

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 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 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:

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 long before IPL should I prep my face?

Whether you’re going in for an IPL treatment or laser skin resurfacing procedure, you should never overlook the importance of prepping your face a few weeks before walking into your doctor’s office.

What to do after laser treatment?

After laser treatment, your skin becomes sensitive, and you should take much care of your diet. It would be best if you used liquids and nourishment regularly after a few days. Try not to take dehydration regularly; try to use kinds of seafood, beans, meats, and eggs daily.

How long after laser treatment should I avoid sunlight?

Your face needs to avoid direct sunlight because it may delay your healing process. According to dermatologists, you should avoid sunlight about six weeks after your laser treatment of the face. It would be best if you used sunscreen, hat, scarf, protective cloth, and sunglasses as well to protect your skin from sunlight. It would be best if you used the best quality sunscreen.

How long should I wait to heat my face after laser hair removal?

Avoid heat in the form of steam rooms, hot water, and saunas. It would help if you avoided any heat for about a minimum of 48 hours after laser treatment of hair removal.

Why should I stop exercising?

You should stop or avoid exercise or any physical activity because exercise helps to intake or consume your daily food and nourishment, which you are using for healing. Exercise may difficult or prolong your healing process.

Can you use ice cubes after laser treatment?

To avoid this type of irritation, you should use ice cubes or cold compresses after your laser treatment. But you cannot use ice cubes directly because it may increase irritation. You have to pack or wrap ice in a towel, and then you ice your face about 10 minutes.

Can you go outside under the sun?

So you should prevent from sunlight and if you have to go outside under the sun than you should cover the face with cloth. You should avoid direct sunlight until the treated area completely recover, healed, and all redness, irritation, and discomfort remove.

Can you smoke after laser treatment?

Smoking may cause disease of cardiovascular, which further leads to different types of cancer. If you did not stop smoking after laser treatment, then it may cause more skin difficulties and complications.

Right After Treatment: Mitigate Swelling and Redness

The downtime after laser treatment usually depends on the type of procedure and how far the light goes into the skin. Most people will experience some redness, swelling, or stinging on the face.

Applying Moisturizer And Washing The Face

It is important to carefully wash and dry your face each morning and night for several days. Water should be lukewarm or cold and you should carefully blot your face dry. The goal for washing is to remove any dead skin and ensure your body’s natural oils are not harshly scrubbed off.

Using Sunscreen To Keep The Skin Protected

As the skin begins to heal, applying sunscreen becomes vitally important to protect sensitive areas. Sunscreen should not be applied in the first week after treatment. People should stay indoors and cover their face with a hat or scarf if they do have to venture outside.

Maintenance For The Long-Term: Practicing Good Skincare Habits

The effects of laser resurfacing can pay big dividends for the future if you practice good skin care habits. Wearing sunscreen and avoiding tanning beds can help prevent wrinkles from returning to a recently resurfaced face.

How to treat skin after laser treatment?

Think of your skin as a wound after a laser treatment and treat it as such. For best results, keep your skin hydrated, moist, clean and protected from the sun. “Gentle products that contain peptides should be your go-to. If you have had a more aggressive treatment, use emollient creams to protect the barrier of your skin and ensure that it remains hydrated. Gentle cleansing with a milk cleanser morning and night, using a quality SPF during the day and a basic moisturiser at night are also essential,” advises King.

Why is laser facial treatment important?

The benefits of facial laser treatments. Because the ‘less is more’ beauty trend has us opting for sheerer, lighter and more breathable makeup products, having a clear and smooth complexion is a priority.

How long does it take for a laser to clear skin?

“Superficial lasers will have no downtime. The treatment of pigmented lesions may take five to seven days for the skin to be clear and ...

What to use for a more aggressive skin treatment?

If you have had a more aggressive treatment, use emollient creams to protect the barrier of your skin and ensure that it remains hydrated. Gentle cleansing with a milk cleanser morning and night, using a quality SPF during the day and a basic moisturiser at night are also essential,” advises King.

What to avoid after laser treatment?

What to avoid after a laser treatment. Put simply, the top thing you need to avoid after a facial laser treatment is active ingredients. “Avoid alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and retinol. Also avoid high impact exercise and sweating,” says Sullivan-Smith. King also recommends steering clear of exfoliating ingredients.

How long does it take for pigmented skin to heal?

For lasers treating the deeper layers of the skin, it can take anywhere between seven and 14 days for your skin to heal.”.

Can lasers cause redness?

King explains, if superficial lasers have been used, your skin may feel a little warm afterwards and you may have some slight redness. Alternatively, if lasers targeting pigmentation have been used, “the pigment may appear darker, similar to having been out in the sun, with skin experiencing a slight sting for an hour or so.

How to Take Care of Your Skin After Laser Resurfacing

Caring for your skin after laser resurfacing is essential to achieving the best results.

Cleanse the Area Gently

You’ll want to keep your recently treated skin clean. That might mean you get creative when it’s time for cleansing, depending on how intense your laser treatment was. During the first days after laser skin resurfacing, Dr. Tina West might recommend washing your facial skin with saline or a weak vinegar solution.

Keep the Skin Moisturized

Your skin may feel dry, peeling, and irritated after a laser treatment. To keep this dryness at bay, Dr. West often recommends frequently moisturizing your skin. Topical products proven in clinical trials to speed healing will be provided after your treatment and you will be encouraged to apply generously to ensure the best result.

Protect the Skin

Sunscreen is critical after a laser treatment. The skin may be more photosensitive than usual for several days to weeks, depending on your which laser treatment is performed. After treatment, your skin can burn faster and more severely when exposed to the sun.

Reduce Swelling

Mild redness and swelling are common after laser skin resurfacing. Ice packs and cold compresses help resolve swelling and minimize redness. They can also soothe irritated skin.

Skip the Strong Ingredients

If you use skin care products with retinol or other potent ingredients, hold off using them in the days to weeks following your treatment. While your skin recovers from laser treatment, active skin care ingredients may do more harm than good. Consult with Dr. West on which skin care products are permissible after treatment.

Keep Your Head Up

Sleeping with your head elevated helps reduce swelling after laser skin resurfacing. Try sleeping on your back with your head propped on pillows after skin resurfacing. When you’re awake, avoid lowering your head below your heart to help reduce swelling and fluid buildup.

When can laser treatments be resumed?

In many geographic regions, however, cosmetic treatments including laser skin care have resumed in time for the fall and winter days to shorten. With fewer hours of sunlight per day, we are actually entering what some dermatologists consider the ideal time frame for cosmetic laser treatments. "To get the best and safest results after ...

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.

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.

How long does it take for skin to heal after Zoom?

Makeup Wear. 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.

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.

How long does it take for a laser to heal?

The bottom line is that until the laser-wrought microscopic channels in your skin heal two to three days, you will want to treat your fresh, new skin delicately, using only products approved by your dermatologist. Why? The skin barrier, when healthy, keeps out molecules that are 500 daltons or larger.

Is light therapy good for PIH?

Light therapy is most appropriate for skin that is not prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), a concern among patients with darker skin tones. "Significant studies and data show that low level LED (light-emitting diodes) promote the acceleration of wound-healing and improves erythema, making it a great partner following Fraxel laser therapies," Shamban says.