Laser skin resurfacing, also known as laser resurfacing or laser skin treatment, is a dermatologic procedure that can help reduce or erase fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, and pigmentation, such as sun spots. and the freckles. This is done by using direct, short, focused, pulsating beams of light or lasers. This procedure can make use of ablative, non-ablative or fractional CO2 lasers, among others, depending on the patient’s health and skin status and the doctor’s recommendation.
To ensure that this dermatological procedure is safe, works well for you, and enjoys its benefits for a long time, you must know how to properly prepare for treatment. Below are some highly recommended laser skin resurfacing prep tips that you should follow:
• Use retinoids. Your dermatologist will recommend that you use moisturizers that contain Retin-A in the weeks leading up to your procedure. This is because Retin-A thins the stratum corneum or the top layer of the skin and programs the cells to divide and multiply, something that will be really helpful during the procedure. Another tip worth keeping in mind is that if you have leftover retinoid-based cream, don’t throw it away as you can use it again a few weeks after your skin heals as it can help keep your new look fresh.
• Apply bleaching cream. In addition to retinoid-rich moisturizers, you’ll also need to start using a whitening cream before the procedure. You should apply this every day before treatment to help offset any potential issues with skin darkening that may be caused by the laser.
• Avoid smoking. Smoking will decrease blood flow to the skin and make healing from the procedure much longer and even more difficult. Most doctors will advise patients who smoke to avoid smoking for a few weeks before and after treatment to help them heal.
• Take the prescribed antibiotics. Your skin provides a protective layer that keeps out bacteria and other harmful organisms. Laser treatments temporarily burn away this protection, leaving the skin vulnerable to infection. Your doctor will likely prescribe a short course of antibiotics a few days before the procedure to help prevent any invaders that can cause infection and serious complications (such as strep and staph infection).
• Stop taking anticoagulant medications. Lastly, blood thinners can prevent your lesions from healing. They can also increase the risk of complications from your procedure. Listen to your doctor when he tells you to stop taking blood-thinning medications and other pain relievers that have this effect, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, and even vitamin E.