What to Expect

Immediately after the treatment, you will experience slight to moderate erythema (redness of the skin). If you are a long-time Retin A or Tretinoin user, the redness might be slightly more pronounced. The redness will dissipate over time, lasting anywhere from a few hours to 24 hours after treatment.  The day after treatment, you should expect a “sandpaper” like texture and feel to your skin. These are the dead skin cells getting ready to “slough off.” The sandpapery texture can last anywhere from 3-5 days. It is important that you allow your skin to smooth out naturally, and NOT use any type of exfoliating type of products, a Clarisonic, etc., to speed this process up. The skin is compromised from the treatment, and we want it to heal naturally. Once the sandpaper feeling goes away within 3-5 days, your skin will look and feel smooth and refreshed!

How to Care for Your Skin After Treatment

Congratulations! You have taken the first step toward healthier, radiant-looking skin by undergoing a Clear + Brilliant System laser treatment. Now it is important to help your skin heal quickly and protect your skin investment. After your treatment, your skin care regimen is tailored to the treatment you received today.  Follow the instructions as checked below:

Immediately After Treatment. Use a bland moisturizer, peptide gel, or a petrolatum ointment (i.e., Aquaphor®). If you need any recommendations, ask your provider.  The use of ice packs helps alleviate the sensation of heat. You may also cleanse your face with a mild cleanser.

First Few Days. Continue cleansing and moisturizing over the next few days. Once the sloughing starts, please allow your skin to heal and DO NOT scrub, rub, or use exfoliants. Body parts being treated may become itchy if clothing rubs on the area.

First Week of Healing. Keep the treated area clean; avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive exercise, perspiring, swimming, or exposing skin to heat and sun.

Skin Care Products. All of your skin care products should be non-irritating and non-clogging for the first week or so after a Clear + Brilliant Touch treatment.

Scrubs, Toners, Glycolic Acid, and Retin A. Your skin will be sensitive for the first week or so after treatment. Do not use products that will irritate during this time. Do not use abrasive scrubs, toners, or products that contain glycolic acids or Retin A. Read the product labels.

Normal Skin Care Regimen. Once the sloughing is complete, you may resume your routine skincare and make-up products, as long as they are tolerable to you.

Sunscreen. It is very important that you use sunscreen to prevent sun damage to the skin. Sunscreen should offer broadband protection (UVA and UVB) and have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more. Once sloughing is complete, use sunscreen daily for at least 3 months after your last treatment. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside, and again, immediately before. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. If direct sun exposure is necessary, wear a hat and clothing that covers the treated area. Your practice of diligent sunscreen use may lower the risk of laser-induced hyperpigmentation (darker color).

Moisturizer. Remember that peeling and/or flaking is normal during the healing process. Therefore, the moisturizer you use should be non-irritating and non-clogging, or else you could develop breakouts. During the healing period, your normal moisturizer may be too occlusive, so consider products from the brands listed above. Instead of using 2 separate products, use moisturizers that contain SPF30+. Reapply whenever your skin feels dry.

Cold Sores. If you have a history of cold sores, please let me know!

Resume your normal skin care regimen when your skin has fully healed.