What do I need to do in preparation?

Prior to the treatment patients should wash the area to be treated so it is free of makeup or any skincare products. Gentle moisturizers can be applied. It is recommended that patients do not apply sunscreens to their skin. Patients must arrive one hour prior to their appointment for numbing.

What should I expect?

Swelling – usually will last two to three days, and will often appear the worst on the day after treatment, especially around the eyes. It is recommended that you sleep with the treated area elevated the first night and apply cold compresses to the treatment area 10 minutes of every hour for the first one to two days.

Redness – can be covered up with makeup immediately after treatment if so desired; slight redness could remain for up to one month.

Dry skin – this procedure tends to cause the skin to flake and feel dry. Brown spots can get darker before they slough off naturally. This is normal and should resolve within a week. It is strongly recommended that the dry skin is not picked, manipulated, or exfoliated as doing so will leave scarring.

How does fractional laser treatment work?

Using the principle of selective photothermolysis, light-based treatment targets different aspects of the skin reducing the appearance of scars and pigmentation without harming surrounding skin. In just a few fast, easy treatment sessions, scars, lines, and discolored skin are much less visible, leaving behind smoother, more attractive skin. The damaged pigmented lesions slough off over the course of approximately one week.

What will I need to do post treatment?

Do not use abrasive scrubs or toners for a week or so after the last treatment. Allow skin to fully heal before returning to normal skin care. If your products have glycolyic acids or Retin A in them, discontinue use for two weeks before your procedure and two weeks post treatment. Cleanse and moisturize daily with light, plain products such as Aveeno, Dove, Neutrogena, Cetaphil, etc. Apply a light cream moisturizer whenever your skin is feeling dry. Heavy ointments such as Vaseline, Aquaphor, or Neosporin ointment may clog your pores and cause mild breakouts, however, they should be applied to raw skin. You do not have to apply band-aids, but keep tender areas moist and do not pick at them. They will heal on their own without incident rapidly. Use plenty of SPF 50+ several times a day and avoid large amounts of sun exposure if at all possible. If sun exposure is necessary, wear clothing that covers the treated area. Healing time and cosmetic outcome vary from person to person. Be patient with your healing process.