LASER TREATMENTS

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

  • 4 weeks prior
    • It is imperative that you avoid any tan/burn, tanning beds or sunless tanner for 4 weeks prior to your treatment. This is a must and no exceptions will be made. The laser works by targeting darker pigment and cannot distinguish in the presence of a tan including sunless tanner leading to a burn and scarring.
    • No harsh medical treatments to the skin within 4 weeks before or after your treatment including chemical peels, microneedling, or any other laser treatments.
  • 2 weeks prior
    • It is imperative that you cover sun exposed skin with hat AND sunscreen 2 weeks prior. This is a must and no exceptions will be made.
    • Dermal fillers should be done at least 2 weeks before or after a laser treatment
  • 1 week prior
    • Stop retinol or harsh acids such as salicylic or glycolic 7 days prior to treatment
    • Botox should be done at least 1 week before or after a laser treatment
    • Call or text our office (804-256-5115) if you are prone to cold sores, and we will call you in a prescription to prevent an outbreak. We will not treat you without this.
  • Inform the provider if have taken Accutane (oral acne medication) in the past year
  • Inform your provider if you have been taking antibiotics in the last 2 weeks

THE DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT

  • If possible, arrive without creams or make-up on the treatment area. Otherwise please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment in order to clean the skin. Cleansing products are available for your convenience.

WHAT TO DO AFTER YOUR TREATMENT

  • Expect your skin to appear pink (resembling mild sunburn) for a few hours after treatment
  • Avoid placing make-up on the treated area for at least 24 hours after the treatment, possibly longer per your provider’s instructions
  • Use mild cleansers and moisturizers
  • Avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen, alcohol, heavy exercise and activities which may cause flushing for 2 days after treatment
  • Avoid harsh topical products such as retinols and glycolic acid products until your skin is completely recovered from your treatment, this will vary based on the aggressiveness of your treatment.
  • Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area and use a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater for 4 -6 weeks after your treatment