Proper preparation ensures the best possible outcome for your Halo Laser treatment. Following these guidelines will help minimize side effects and promote faster healing.
Preparation Guidelines (5 Days Before Treatment)
- Refrain from using products that may irritate the skin, such as those containing Retin-A, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic or salicylic acids, astringents, or vitamin C.
- Avoid taking blood-thinning agents like aspirin, ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin/Advil), naproxen (Aleve), fish oil, and vitamin E supplements. If you take prescription blood thinners, consult your healthcare provider before stopping them.
- Minimize sun exposure for at least 7 days before your appointment.
- Do not wax or apply depilatory creams to the treatment areas.
- Avoid using self-tanning products or sprays on the areas to be treated.
The Day Before Treatment
- If prescribed by your provider, take any antiviral or antibiotic medication as directed.
Immediately After Your Treatment
- Your treatment provider will apply a topical moisturizer to soothe the treated skin.
- Hold off on wearing makeup for at least 48 hours.
- Avoid physical activities that may cause sweating for 48 hours.
- Steer clear of sun exposure and outdoor activities for 1 week. Always apply a mineral-based SPF when outdoors.
- Swelling is a common side effect and can be managed with cold compresses or ice packs. To help reduce swelling, try sleeping in an elevated position on the first night. Swelling is often most noticeable the morning after treatment and can last up to 7 days.
- Redness is expected and may intensify over the first few days, peaking around day 3. It may last up to 7-10 days depending on treatment intensity.
- Minor pinpoint bleeding could occur and might last up to 12 hours, varying by treatment depth and area.
- Warmth in the treated areas is normal and may persist for 12-24 hours post-treatment. Cold compresses can provide relief.
Post-Treatment Care (Days 1-7)
- Clean your skin twice daily using lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, like Cetaphil. Use only your hands to cleanse and gently pat dry. Do not scrub, exfoliate, or use facial brushes, as this may lead to scarring or pigmentation issues.
- Avoid intense physical activities and sweating until your skin has fully healed.
- You may take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to ease discomfort. Contact our office promptly if pain becomes severe.
- Itching is common during the healing process. To prevent scarring or pigmentation changes, avoid scratching. Non-drowsy antihistamines like Claritin or Zyrtec can help during the day, while Benadryl may be taken at night if needed.
- By the second or third day post-treatment, expect the formation of tiny dark spots and a bronzed look to the treated areas. This indicates MENDS (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris) as part of the natural healing process. Avoid picking or peeling these areas. Your skin may feel rough and start to flake. Healing may take 7-10 days for the face and up to two weeks for other areas like the neck or chest.
- Once the peeling phase concludes, your skin will have a pinkish glow that will gradually diminish. Makeup can be used once this stage is complete.
- Applying sunscreen is essential, starting the day of treatment and continuing for at least 3 months. Ensure your sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection and reapply every 2 hours. If you need to be outdoors, wear protective clothing and a hat. Sun exposure can lead to complications such as blistering, scarring, or pigmentation changes. Avoid direct sun for at least 2 months post-treatment.
Recommended Aftercare Products
- Gentle Cleanser: Use a mild cleanser, like Cetaphil, to clean the treated area.
- Vinegar Soaks: Mix 2 teaspoons of white vinegar with 2 cups of bottled water. Soak gauze in the mixture and lay it on the treated area for 10-15 minutes. Gently press but do not rub, then rinse with bottled water.
For the First 24 Hours Post-Treatment, use:
- Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar
Skinbetter Cleansing gel, Skinbetter Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum, Mystro trio tone Cleansing gel, Mystro trio tone smart
Cold Sore Prevention
- you are prone to cold sores, follow the preventative treatment plan as instructed by your provider.
Contact Us: For any questions, BB Aesthetic can be reached by call or text at (614) 934-5000 or by email at team@bbaesthetic.com. Text messages will be answered during normal business hours.
