Mobile Medical Clinic

 

FRACTIONAL CO2 LASER TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

 

PRE-TREATMENT CARE

 

• Please notify us of any history of diabetes, herpes , blood coagulation disorder, keloid or hypertrophic scarring.

• Discontinue sun tanning , use of tanning beds and any application of sunless tanning products 4 weeks before your treatment. Basically, avoid the sun as much as possible!

• Discontinue the use of Retin-A, retinol products, hydroquinone products or facial chemicals at least 1 week prior to our treatment. You may resume their use once completely healed ( approximately 2 weeks).No Accutane 6 months prior to treatment.

• Discontinue the use of exfoliating products, glycolic and alpha/beta-hydroxy acid products 1 week prior to your treatment.

• Wait at least 2 weeks after facial filler , Botox or Dysport injections before having a fractional CO2 laser treatment.

• We recommend that you purchase brand new skin care products fro use 3-4 days after your treatment. These include a mild facial cleanser, a high quality sunblock(zinc or SPF 30 or above) and makeup if you use it. We also recommend cleaning or purchasing new application sponges or brushes. The most common reason for infection or acne eruption is the use of home products that have accumulated bacteria.

• If you have a history of herpes or cold sores take 1 antiviral medication twice per day beginning 3 days before your appointment t and continue taking the medication for 4 days after the procedure. Your doctor may prescribe this medication for you.

• On the day of your treatment , please come to the office with clean skin. Your treatment area should be free of any makeup, creams,perfumes and lotion.

 

 

FRACTIONAL CO2 LASER TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

 

POST-TREATMENT CARE

 

You may experience a burning sensation of the skin that may last between 30 minutes and up to 3-4 hours following your treatment on the first day. The treated area may feel warm for 24 hours.

• You may want to take a few days off of work to recover. Treatment to the facial area may result in an appearance similar to a darker tan/sunburn for the first day. A fine scab will the form on the skin. Do not be concerned as this promotes the healing process.

• If you have discomfort following the treatment, you may take an over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if your doctor recommends.

• Take 1 antiviral medication twice per day for 3 days before, and for 4 days after the treatment, if prescribed by your doctor.

• Wash your face twice daily using a mild soap such as Neutrogena or a soap free cleanser such as Cetaphil.

• After your face has been washed, apply a land petroleum-based ointment such as Aquaphor to the treated sites and lips at least 4 times a day, or more frequently if tightness is noticed. Avoid hot water. Your face should appear glistening all the time.

• After 1-2 days, the eschar and scabbing on your skin will begin to heal and the skin may have a tanned look. At this point, makeup and sunscreen may be applied. Redness may persist for up to 3-4 days. On the 4th day or so your face will get darker and then near the 5th-6th day, peeling will occur. More intense treatments can take up to 7 days for recover.

• Eye area: Treatments to the upper eyelids may result in swelling and create a slight squint. Redness may persist up to 3-4 days. Cleanse your eyes with cool water and dab or pat very lightly with a soft towel. Avoid hot water,. Lubricationg the eye with drops( i.e. artificial tears) will help to decrease the dryness of your eyes.

• If the skin around the mouth is tight, minimize facial expressions, and remember to lubricate with ointment as needed.

• Rest. Avoid strenuous exercise, bending, straining, stoping or lifting heavy objects for 1 week after the procedure. There activities many cause more swelling and pain in your face and slow down your recovery.

• Sleep in a slightly elevated position. Elevation of your head will decrease swelling.

• A sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher should be applied every day after the scabs have healed. Use a hat and sunglasses. Your skin is extremely vulnerable to the sun after having a laser treatment . Protecting your skin and limiting sin exposure ensures the best cosmetic results.

• You may resume the sue of Retin A, retinol, hydroquinone and/or glycolic acid products approximately 2 weeks after treatment.

• Schedule a follow-up appointment approximately 7 days from the date of your procedure.

• Call the office immediately for problems of increased pain, fever, drainage of pus, sign s of infection or bleeding.