Before Treatment
Before Laser Treatment
Proper preparation helps ensure the best results and minimizes side effects.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 4-6 weeks before your laser treatment. Tanned skin increases the risk of complications including burns and pigmentation changes. Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
Medications to Avoid
- Stop retinoids (tretinoin, Retin-A) 5-7 days before treatment
- Avoid photosensitizing medications if possible
- If you have a history of cold sores (herpes), inform the doctor - antiviral prophylaxis may be needed
- Continue all other regular medications
Day of Treatment
- Arrive with clean skin - no makeup, lotions, or sunscreen on the treatment area
- Wear comfortable clothing
- The treatment area will be numbed with topical or local anesthesia
Types of Laser Treatment
- Ablative laser (CO2, Erbium): resurfaces skin, removes lesions. Longer recovery.
- Non-ablative laser (PDL, Nd:YAG): treats blood vessels, pigmentation. Minimal downtime.
- HPV wart treatment: targeted laser destruction of viral warts.
