When should I take Valtrex before laser?
To prevent the blisters, your doctor may prescribe a medication called Valacyclovir to take before and after your laser treatment. This medication should be taken the morning of your surgery with a sip of water. The medication should then be continued for 7-10 days after your laser treatment.
Does Fraxel laser cause cold sores?
Laser resurfacing can lead to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. The most common infection is a flare-up of the herpes virus — the virus that causes cold sores. In most cases, the herpes virus is already present but dormant in the skin.
What should you not do before Fraxel?
It is critical that you are not using topical or oral steroids (creams or pills), retinoids (topical or oral) prior to your Fraxel procedure. Discontinue using skincare products containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and abrasive scrubs for at least 2 weeks prior to your procedure.
How can I make my Fraxel heal faster?
Treatment Day These effects should be treated by using ice, moisturizer, or over-the-counter medications during the rest of this day in order to minimize discomfort and speed up your healing time.
How can I heal faster after laser resurfacing?
Keeping your face well hydrated after receiving laser skin resurfacing can help alleviate this with the use of doctor-approved moisturizing creams or lotions. Hydrating your skin will not only allow your skin to be more elastic and heal faster but also offers a degree of comfort as you contract facial muscles.
Can Fraxel ruin your skin?
Because the Fraxel laser does damage your skin cells (in order for them to rejuvenate and improve your skin's appearance), you need to be certain to clean all treated areas several times a day – two to five, according to plasticsurgery.org – with saline or diluted vinegar solution, depending on your surgeon's ...
How often should you wash your face after Fraxel?
Using a 4 x 4 gauze pad soaked with cool or tepid water diluted with white vinegar (1 teaspoon per cup), gently go over all resurfaced areas 3-5 times a day until the skin has stopped exfoliating. The goal is to lightly remove the exfoliating skin and crusting that develops after the laser procedure.
Can I take a shower after Fraxel?
Showers can be taken, but please try to avoid hot water and direct shower spray to the treatment area for 48-72 hours following treatment. Avoid all saunas and hot tubs. Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours (this includes hot yoga). Do not use any retinoid, RETIN-A or GLYCOLIC products for 1-2 weeks post-procedure.
Should I use Aquaphor after Fraxel?
Keep your skin moisturized, especially while it is peeling. Post Laser gel or Aquaphor Healing Ointment (available OTC) can be applied several times a day. If your skin is acne prone, use a lighter moisturizer, such as Cetaphil or Cerave.
What should I avoid after Fraxel?
Keep treated area clean; avoid smoking; excessive alcohol consumption, excessive exercise, perspiring, swimming, or exposing skin to heat and sun. All of your skin care products should be non-irritating and non-clogging for the first week or so after a Fraxel treatment.
Should I take arnica before Fraxel?
Excessive scabbing, pain or pustules should be reported to the office right away. You may take Arnica to alleviate some swelling prior to treatment. You may purchase it at reception.
Can you drink coffee after Fraxel?
Our recommendation is Alastin Skin Regenerating Nectar because it's specially formulated for post-procedure skin and helps you heal much faster. Drink lots of water, and avoid caffeine products.