banner

Non-Ablative Skin Resurfacing (1540 Erbium)

Pre-Treatment | Procedure | Post-Treatment

Pre-Treatment Information

In some cases, a pre-treatment of hydroquinone cream is used to prepare the skin for treatment 2 to 4 weeks before treatment. Discontinue use of exfoliating creams such as Retin-A and other exfoliating products 2 weeks prior to and during entire treatment course. When you do apply make-up, you will need to clean or get new application sponges or make-up brushes. The most common reason for infection or acneiform eruption is the use of home products that have accumulated bacteria.

If you have a history of herpes outbreaks in the area of treatment, please let us know. You may require prophylactic medication prior to treatment.

Return to Procedure Menu

The Erbium Fractional Laser Procedure

To improve the comfort of the treatment, it is recommended you come to the appointment 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure for application of numbing cream. The laser treatment is best described as "pin pricks" on the skin. Ice is used during the procedure to help soothe the skin.

Return to Procedure Menu

Post-Treatment Information

While your skin is red and inflamed do not put anything active (products that sting) on the treatment area. Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, preferably hydrating serum. Apply ice during the first hour to the treated area. Ice is very soothing and helps prevent swelling. Move the ice pack around to prevent tissue damage from holding it in one spot. Take either naprosyn or ibuprofen during the first 4 hours (unless you have been advised not to take either for other reasons) to help minimize swelling and discomfort. You can expect the treated area to be red and puffy. The treated area may appear red while healing. Some redness can persist for 2 to 3 weeks and sometimes you can see the circular shape from the hand piece. This redness can be minimized with makeup after the first day or so. The puffiness usually is gone by the first 24 to 48 hours, but can last up to a week.

Hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the skin is common for the first two weeks after treatment and it is not uncommon for it to continue for a month for darker skin tones and/or sun exposure. Patience! It takes time to see improvement. This treatment stimulates collagen growth, but it takes time to happen. The collagen remodeling will continue to show improvement for 6 months after the last treatment.

Return to Procedure Menu

A service of: