FRACTIONAL LASER RESURFACING

Pre-treatment & Aftercare Information

Fractional laser resurfacing is a rejuvenating treatment that uses laser energy to create micro-injuries, stimulating collagen production and improving texture, tone, and scars.

Fractional laser resurfacing is suitable for all skin types, however, skin types 4-6 will need a 6 week minimum course of topical tyrosinase inhibitors. More info further down this page.
Click here to learn more on skin types.

After a fractional laser resurfacing treatment, you can expect redness, swelling, and a sensation of heat similar to a sunburn for up to 24 hours. The skin may feel tight, dry, and slightly rough as it begins to heal. Some peeling or flaking can occur within a few days as new skin emerges.

The treatment will initially create a uniform pattern on the skin where the laser has penetrated the skin. Downtime varies depending on the treatment intensity, but most people recover fully within a week.

Fractional laser resurfacing is a safe and effective procedure. However, as with all treatments, it’s essential to take special care of your skin before and after the procedure for fast recovery and best results.

Pre Treatment

Don’t exfoliate. To avoid irritating the skin unnecessarily, it’s important you don’t exfoliate for 2 weeks before your appointment. In addition, watch out for ingredients in your skin care products that may have an exfoliating effect such as acids (glycolic, salicylic, lactic), retinol and topical antibiotics.

Avoid the sun. Clients should avoid sun exposure for four weeks prior to treatment. This is to ensure your skin is at its base colour and the appropriate laser settings are used. Please inform me immediately if you have had recent sun exposure as we will need to rearrange your appointment.

Stay hydrated. Your skin should be well-hydrated on the day of your appointment. Make sure you stop using any products that dry out your skin a few days prior to your appointment (such as clay masks and salicylic acid), and remember to drink plenty of water.

Tyrosinase inhibitors. Skin types 4-6 will need to prepare their skin for treatment with a 6 week minimum course of tyrosinase inhibitors. This is to minimise the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. We will discuss this during your consultation and patch test.

Aftercare

Wash your face with cool water. This will help soothe any heat you may feel following your treatment. You do not need to perform any skin care until the morning after your treatment. You should also avoid hot showers and baths for 48 hours as this may cause discomfort.

Apply a cool-pack if needed. This will reduce any discomfort or irritation. Never put ice directly onto your skin.

Use gentle, calming products. Apply aloe vera gel if needed and avoid harsh fragrances, acids and exfoliants (including flannels and face cloths) for at least 3 to 4 days following treatment as these can all irritate and damage the skin.

Apply sunscreen with SPF30 or more. Your skin is more delicate after laser treatments, so avoid direct sun exposure to the treated area as this can lead to inflamed and hyperpigmented skin. If you must be exposed to the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen.

Avoid makeup until the skin has settled. This time will vary between clients, but it’s best to be prepared to not wear make up for 24 hours following your treatment.

Avoid strenuous workouts, dry saunas, steam rooms and swimming pools. Increased blood circulation to the skin can intensify warming, tingling, itching, redness or other uncomfortable side effects on freshly treated skin. In addition, chlorinated water may also cause irritation. Skip such activities for at least 48 hours.

Avoid further treatments. Your skin needs time to recover before undergoing further treatment. How long you wait will depend on the treatment you plan to undertake. Please consult your therapist for advice.

Contact me ASAP with photos and information if you have any problems after treatment e.g. marks, scabbing or blisters. DO NOT scratch, pick or disturb these in any way if they occur.

Contraindications

Please let me know as soon as possible if any of the following apply to you as this may restrict treatment:

  • Active bacterial, viral, fungal, or herpetic infection

  • Open wounds on face

  • History of medication with potential to cause photosensitivity (eg. accutane)

  • Pre-existing inflammatory dermatoses (eg. psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, pemphigus)

  • Facial cancers, especially facial melanoma

  • Recent suntan or burn (including fake tan)

  • Current pregnancy or within the last 6 months

  • Lupus

  • Blood thinning medication

  • St John’s Wort