Pre-Care Instructions: Laser Hyperpigmentation & Spot Removal

To ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), please carefully follow these guidelines prior to your appointment:

• Avoid Direct Sun Exposure & Tanning: Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning products on the treatment area for at least 2 weeks before your session. Sunburned, tanned, or active-melanin skin significantly increases the risk of complications.

• Pause Active & Exfoliating Skincare: Stop using active ingredients—including Retinoids (Retin-A, retinol), AHAs/BHAs (glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid), hydroquinone, and vitamin C serums—for 1 week prior to your treatment.

• Avoid Hair Removal Products on the Area: Refrain from waxing, chemical depilatories, or bleaching products on the treatment area for at least 1–2 weeks before your session.

• Avoid Blood Thinners: Refrain from taking non-essential blood-thinning medications or supplements (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Vitamin E, or fish oil) for 7 days prior to treatment to minimize bruising (consult your physician before stopping prescribed medications).

• Arrive with Clean Skin: Please arrive at your appointment with a thoroughly cleansed face/area, completely free of makeup, skincare products, lotions, or sunscreens.

• Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine: Limit alcohol and caffeine intake for 24 hours before your appointment to minimize skin sensitivity.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session to keep your skin well-hydrated.

Post-Care Instructions: Laser Hyperpigmentation & Spot Removal

Proper post-procedure care is essential for safe skin healing and achieving a clear, even skin tone.

What to Expect

• Darkening of Spots (Micro-Crusting): It is completely normal for treated spots to darken immediately or within a few hours (appearing like dark coffee grounds or small scabs). These will naturally flake off within 7–14 days. Do not pick, scratch, or rub them.

• Mild Redness & Warmth: You may experience mild redness or a sunburn-like sensation for 24–48 hours post-treatment.

Aftercare Guidelines

• Keep the Area Clean & Dry: Gently wash the treated area twice daily using a mild, non-exfoliating cleanser and lukewarm water. Gently pat dry with a clean towel—do not rub.

• Apply Ice for Comfort: If experiencing mild swelling or warmth, apply a clean ice pack wrapped in a soft cloth to the area for 10–15 minutes at a time.

• Moisturize & Protect the Skin Barrier: Apply a thin layer of a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer or healing ointment (e.g., PolySporin Complete, Aquaphor, CeraVe Healing Ointment, or soothing barrier cream) as instructed by your practitioner.

• Strict Sun Protection (Essential): Protect your healing skin from all direct sun exposure. Apply a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows. Sun exposure can trigger new pigment (PIH) to form.

• Avoid Heat & Excessive Sweating: Refrain from hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, intense workouts, and excessive sweating for 48 to 72 hours to avoid aggravating the skin.

• Avoid Swimming: Stay out of chlorinated pools, hot tubs, and open bodies of water for at least 7 days to prevent infection and irritation.

• Avoid Makeup Temporarily: Refrain from applying makeup to the treated area for 24 to 48 hours or until any minor flaking/crusting has settled. Always use clean brushes or sponges once you resume makeup use.

• Hold Active Skincare: Do not resume using Retinoids, exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs), or brightening serums until your skin is fully healed (typically 10 to 14 days post-treatment, or as advised by your practitioner).

• Avoid Blood Thinners: Continue to avoid non-essential blood thinners for 3 days post-treatment to minimize any potential bruising.

• Follow-Up Sessions: Multiple sessions are often required to achieve optimal pigment reduction. Follow-up treatments are typically scheduled 4 to 8 weeks apart depending on skin response and depth of pigment.

Important: If you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, blistering, persistent oozing, or signs of infection, please contact your practitioner immediately.