Laser Treatments

Pre-Appointment

• Discontinue all retinoid/retinol products 7 days before treatment -this includes Tretinoin, Adapalene, Differin, and any night cream that has a retinol ingredient. Note: please keep in mind that if you used any of the ingredients described above less than 7 days ago, your treatment will have to be postponed!
• No sun exposure 14 days before treatment
• Discontinue use of any hydroquinone product prescribed or over the counter 7 days before treatment
• No makeup is preferred day of treatment if the area being treated is the face.
• If there is a history of cold sores- take Valtrex on the day of treatment for preventative purposes. We can also send a prescription if necessary. Note: if you have a cold sore or any symptoms of the cold sore starting, please call us to reschedule your appointment immediately. Your treatment can not be performed. There is a broken appointment fee if we are not notified by you and the treatment can not be done during the reserved time.

Appointment

• Before the treatment, the skin is cleansed, and a topical anesthetic may be applied for comfort.
• During the treatment, a laser device is used to target specific skin concerns, such as acne scars, melasma, rosacea, scar reduction, and anti-aging. Quick procedure with minor discomfort during treatment.
• After the treatment, you may experience some redness and swelling, which typically resolves within a few hours to days.

Aftercare

• Right after treatment, your skin may feel warm, red, a bit puffy, and occasionally show pinpoint bleeding—all normal and temporary. A cool compress soothes nicely, and you may take ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed.

  Keep things simple and gentle while you heal:

  • Cleanse with a mild, fragrance-free wash using fingertips; pat dry—no scrubbing.

  • Moisturize often with a plain, barrier-supporting cream or ointment to relieve itching and dryness.

  • Protect with a mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+) every morning and limit sun exposure.

  For best results, avoid until fully healed:

  • Heavy sweating, saunas/steam, hot tubs, swimming, and direct sun.

  • Exfoliating tools and any picking or rubbing (this can cause dark marks or scarring).

  • Skincare containing acids or essential oils (e.g., salicylic, glycolic, citric, stearic, palmitic; tea tree, lavender). Read labels and keep routines minimal.

  Makeup is best skipped at first; if necessary, choose light mineral makeup and remove it gently.

  If you’re prone to cold sores, let us know before treatment so we can prevent a flare. Once skin looks and feels back to normal (often about a week), gradually reintroduce your usual routine.

  Contact us if you notice worsening redness after day 2–3, severe pain, pus, fever, or blistering—we’re here to help.