What to Do After Your Clear + Brilliant Treatment
First of all, thanks for coming in! Second of all, congrats! You’ve just improved your overall skin fitness! However, results vary and the *best* results depend on you, and whether you read, understand and actually do everything on this list. Questions? Give us a call!
Before we get into your post-care instructions, here’s a few things you can expect: Right after your appointment, it’s common for the treated area to have some minor to moderate redness, irritation, swelling and a sunburn sensation—but these side effects will subside by the following day. Your skin may then have a mild to moderate rough, sand-paper texture—this is the damaged skin coming to the surface, and it will slough off on its own within 7-10 days, resulting in smoother, softer, clearer skin.
CONTINUE TO EMBRACE THE NO-MAKEUP LOOK
We recommend not applying makeup for at least 24 hours. When you do wear makeup again, please ensure your makeup brushes and sponges are clean!
REMEMBER TO MOISTURIZE
After your treatment, moisturize the treated area with a thin layer of Vaseline® or Aquaphor® at least three times daily for three to four days. This will reduce any irritation and promote healing.
STAY OUT OF THE SUN
For the best results we recommend you avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds three days after your treatment, and always apply sunblock with SPF 50+ any time you are outside. We also recommend barrier protection such as wide-brimmed hats, large sunglasses and protective clothing.
STAY DRY
Time to reschedule your beach, spa & trainer sessions...you should avoid steam rooms, saunas and exercise for 24 hours, and avoid swimming for at least three days after your treatment.
CHILL OUT IN THE SHOWER
Hold the hot baths & showers and take short, cool or lukewarm showers and avoid scrubbing or shaving the area for a minimum of 3 days. After showering, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.
AVOID IRRITANTS
These include harsh soaps, medicated washes, scrubs, peels, and topical prescription products, such as retinoids for at least three days. We recommend applying only Vaseline, Aquaphor, hydrocortisone 1%, or sunscreen as needed. Reminder: refrain from scrubbing the area!
What to Do If You Have These Common Side Effects….
FOR REDNESS, SWELLING OR DISCOMFORT
Apply cool ice packs to the affected area, taking them on and off every three to five minutes for one to two hours (do not apply ice pack for more than five minutes at a time). Also, apply hydrocortisone 1% and Vaseline® or Aquaphor® to the affected area up to three times a day until it goes away.
FOR ITCHING
We recommend taking oral liquid Benadryl®, Allegra® or Clartin® (antihistamines available over-the-counter) as needed, as well as applying hydrocortisone 1%, and Vaseline® or Aquaphor® to the affected area up to three times per day until it resolves. Also, avoid scratching the area.
FOR DRY, ROUGH SKIN
As the damaged skin prepares to slough off, it is common for your skin to have a rough, sandpaper-like texture. Do not rub or scrub the area, and apply Vaseline® or Aquaphor® and the damaged skin will naturally slough off on its own.
Questions? Experiencing anything not covered here? Come in to any LaserAway or give us a call at 1-888-965-2737. You can book your next Clear + Brilliant appointment in 2-4 weeks!