Post-Treatment Advice
Immediately following treatment, the area may show redness with some swelling. This usually resolves in 1 to 2 hours, but may persistfor 1 to 2 days. If this occurs, apply a cold compress for ten minutes every 1 to 2 hours. Discomfort or stinging may be relieved withAquaphor Healing Agent, Polysporin, Aloe Vera or a Cold Rag. If the area treated has become itchy you can use a calamine lotion torelieve this symptom. Acetaminophen, (e.g. Tylenol) can be taken as well to relieve any discomfort.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- Hyper- pigmentation & Hypopigmentation is rare & hereditary. If the color of the skin changes use a skin brightening toner for darkening of the skin & this should return to normal but take up to 6 months.
- To minimize the risk of side effects is the best to avoid sun exposure 7 days before and after your treatment
- It is important to avoid sunless tanning methods 7 days prior to your appointment
- Side effects are possible and rare but, can include Hyper-pigmentation (darkening of the skin), Hypo-pigmentation (whitening of the skin), mild or moderate burns and/or blisters, temporary redness, small red bumps, swelling, itching, bruising, hives and in some cases lack of desired hair loss.
During the Next 24 Hours
- Do not take a hot bath, you can shower as usual be aware the area treated may be a little temperature sensitive
- Do not put make-up on if you have had laser hair removal on the face.
- Wear comfortable clothes that you can move in properly and that won’t irritate the treated area.
- Use a hydrating product within 24 hours (not a product that is new for you or that contains perfume or cologne)
- Exfoliate the area treated using a loofa to minimize the risk of ingrown hairs.
During the Next 48 Hours
- Do not go into a swimming pool, hot tub or spa or do other activities that may put you in contact with irritating substances such as chlorine.
- If the feeling of heat persists, apply a cold compress.
- Do not scratch the surface, you may cause infection. To avoid scratching, apply an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin.
- Avoid extended sun exposure especially for any facial treatments. This may cause complications.
- It is important that any discomfort to the treated area must be treated with care to avoid scarring and other discomfort.
During the Whole Period of Treatment
- No sun (natural or artificial) on the treated area. Use sun block protection with at least SPF 30 if you expose the treated area to the sun. This is especially important for a week after your appointment.
- Avoid any and all laser treatments or chemical procedures on the treated area for at least 2 weeks or until the area has returned to normal.
- Any discomfort you experience post treatment may be relieved with an ice pack.
If a Crust or Blister Develops
- Do not rub, scratch or pick if a crust develops, let it fall off on its own. Irritation may increase the chance of scarring.
- In the case of crusting or blistering, avoid make-up until the skin has healed completely and do not shave the area. If make-up is used. It must be applied and removed delicately.
- Apply Aquaphor, Polysporin, Bactroban or Fucidin ointment to keep the area moist and help healing. Apply until side effects resolve.
- If a blister occurs do not pop the blister. If the blisters punctures on its own apply an antibiotic until the area is completely healed.