After Treatment
After Laser Treatment
Recovery depends on the type of laser used. Follow these guidelines for optimal results.
After Non-Ablative Laser
- Mild redness for 24-72 hours, like a mild sunburn
- Purpura (bruise-like marks) from pulsed dye laser may last 7-14 days
- You can apply makeup the next day
- Apply moisturizer as recommended by the treatment team
After Ablative Laser
- The treated area is an open wound - keep it moist at all times
- Apply antibiotic ointment or Vaseline and cover with a non-adhesive bandage
- No scabs should form - if crusting appears, you are not applying enough ointment
- Healing takes 1-4 weeks depending on the depth of treatment
Sun Protection
Strict sun avoidance for 3-6 months after ablative laser. Use SPF 50+ daily. Sun exposure on treated skin causes permanent pigmentation changes.
What to Avoid
- Sun exposure and tanning
- Hot showers, saunas, or hot tubs for 48-72 hours
- Retinoids and active skincare ingredients for 1-2 weeks
- Scratching or picking at the treated area
- Swimming until fully healed
When to Contact Us
- Increasing redness or swelling after day 3
- Signs of infection: pus, fever, spreading redness
- Severe pain not responding to over-the-counter painkillers
- Unusual color changes in the treated area
