Taking care of your skin after laser treatment is a key part of post laser care process. It’s important to understand the proper dos and don’ts when it comes to post-laser care to ensure you get the best results from your treatment. In this blog post, we will cover the essential dos and don’ts after laser treatment so that you can get the most out of your laser treatment.
Do :
1. Ice pack
If you have any soreness or inflammation after a laser treatment, an ice pack can help provide relief. It is also a great way to reduce swelling in the area. Don’t apply ice directly to your skin – wrap an ice pack in a soft towel before applying it to the area. Avoid using an ice pack for too long, as this can cause skin irritation and discomfort.
2. use Gentle cleanser
After your laser treatment, it’s important to use a gentle cleanser to keep your skin clean and free of dirt and bacteria, such as Cetaphil and Avene. Look for a cleanser that is suitable for sensitive skin and free of harsh ingredients. Harsh chemicals or fragrances can irritate your skin and increase the chance of post-treatment complications. Make sure you gently pat dry with a soft cloth or towel after washing and do not rub your skin too harshly.
3. Moisturise
Use a hydrating, fragrance-free moisturiser after laser treatment. This will help keep your skin hydrated and help reduce redness and irritation. Also avoid any moisturiser that contains alcohol, which can be drying and irritating to your skin.
5. Sunscreen
Remember to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. Excessive UV exposure after laser increases the risk of darkening and photo-damaged skin. Wear protective clothing and sunglasses outdoors if you plan to be in the sun for an extended period. Recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Dont’s :
1. Don’t pick at your skin
Picking at your skin after laser treatment can cause serious damage, so it’s important to resist the temptation. Picking can increase your infection risk and worsen any irritation or redness. If you’re feeling itchy, do not scratch – instead, try a cooling compress or ice pack to reduce discomfort. Taking these precautions will help ensure that your skin heals properly and that you get the maximum benefit from your laser treatment.
2.Don’t swim
Swimming is good exercise, but swimming should be avoided when it comes to laser treatments. Laser treatments can increase skin sensitivity for the first few days, so swimming in a pool or a lake can cause irritation and infection.
3. Don’t use acids
It is important not to use any acids on your skin following a laser treatment. If you have skincare products with acids, they should not be used until at least one week after the laser treatment. Acids can be found in skincare products to improve acne and exfoliation. However, it is best to use gentle cleansers and moisturisers specifically formulated for sensitive skin or post-laser recovery cream as recommended by your doctor or medical practitioners
4. Don’t use Vitamin A derivative
Vitamin A derivatives such as retinol and retinoids are good ingredients to increase skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen production. However, it should be avoided until your skin is healed. Vitamin A derivatives can irritate post-laser skin and increase the risk of burns. You can continue using it one week after the procedure to get the maximum benefit of the laser.
5. Don’t wear make up
After laser treatment, it is important to avoid wearing makeup for a few days. Even though you may be tempted to cover up the redness and swelling, makeup can be a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause infection. Additionally, makeup can irritate your skin, cause inflammation, and worsen your recovery process. Make sure to give your skin time to rest and heal after laser treatment.
You may contact us for more information. Our team will be delighted to attend to you.
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Author: Dr Loh Jiaxin, Mar 2023