Pre-Treatment Information/Instructions
To avoid complications, it is important the treated area is not exposed to the sun for at least six weeks before the procedure. When the area to be treated is exposed to the sun, a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with a SPF of 50 or higher should be applied. After your last treatment, you should continue this practice for at least 6 weeks after your last treatment. Post-treatment complications like hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation can be avoided.
– DO NOT apply self-tanning products for at least 4 weeks before laser treatment.
– DO NOT apply Retin-A or Renova one week prior to laser treatment.
– DO NOT take Accutane for at least two months before laser treatment.
– DO NOT take any Aspirin for several days before treatment in order to avoid any bruising.
– DO NOT have any other hair removal treatments (tweezers, waxing, electric epilators) or bleach the hair for at least one month before your first treatment. Regular shaving is ok.
– Shave the area 24 to 48 hours before treatment. Taking a photo of the unshaven area is a good idea if hair is fine and no shadow can be seen after shaving.
– DO NOT wear deodorant, make-up, powder or perfumes on the areas to be treated.
– If you plan on wearing a bikini, avoid tight elastic at the opening of the leg.
– If you have a history of oral herpes (fever blisters or sores) and are having treatment for your mouth area, you will need to take suppressive therapy as directed by your physician.
Post- Treatment Information/Instructions
Immediate post-treatment reactions can be: Peri-follicular erythema (red bumps that disappear after 1-2 days); mild edema (minor swelling that goes away after 24 hours); mild erythema (redness that goes away after 1-3 days).
Post Treatment Precautions
– Be gentle with the area. DON’T rub, scratch, or pick the treated areas.
– If the treated area becomes tender or shows signs of infection, such as pus, tenderness, or fever, contact the technician who performed the treatment.
– Do not use hot water on the treated area for 24 hours after treatment.
– Swimming, sports, and strenuous exercise should be avoided for 48-36 hours after treatment.
– Do not shave the area if it becomes crusted or blistered.
– Do not use hot water on treated areas immediately after treatment.
Care of the Treated Area
– Following the laser treatment, moisturize and hydrate the skin with a hydrating product.
– Make sure the treated area is kept clean.
If you are experiencing any discomfort, such as swelling or redness, apply a non-cortisone anti-inflammatory cream, such as zinc oxide, without massaging, or apply ice. For the next few days, reapply several times each day.
– On the treated area, it is best not to use make-up for three days. If you must wear make-up, you should apply it and remove it very delicately. Rubs excessively may cause trauma to the area and increase the risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation.
It takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks (sometimes sooner) for treated hair to exfoliate or push out, and it may also appear darker and thicker before falling out.
– DO NOT shave for at least three days after treatment.
– DO NOT apply deodorant to the underarms for three days. Apply a light powder instead.
When showering, always rinse the area gently with cool or tepid water and gently pat it dry. Avoid rubbing.
After the treatment, apply a high-protection sunscreen to the area for 4-6 weeks. Protect the area from direct sunlight and sunlamps.
Remember: You must follow the prescribed number of treatments in order to achieve your desired results. When you skip treatments, even if it appears you have achieved the results, you will have a less-than-satisfactory outcome, and your long-term health will suffer.
You should follow both the PRE and POST treatment instructions to reduce your risk of complications. If you should have any questions or concerns, please speak to your laser technician.
