PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

It is important to ensure that you prepare for your treatment in the best possible way. The
following are some pre-treatment instructions to help you along the way to a successful
treatment which is highly dependent on your cooperation.

1. ABSOLUTELY avoid any type of sunburn or suntan for 4 weeks prior to laser treatments.
   Treatment of tanned skin can increase the risk of blistering and/or permanent skin
   discoloration. Prolonged sun exposure is to be avoided for 4 weeks before and after
   treatments.
2. Please do not use any product that discolors skin for a minimum of 4 weeks prior to
   treatment including self-tanning lotions. No laser treatment can be done before the skin has
   returned to normal skin color. EXCEPTION: continue using hydroquinone or whitening
   agents.
3. No facials/exfoliation, microdermabrasion, or any form of exfoliating within 3 – 4 weeks
   prior to treatment and thereafter. Avoid any irritants to your skin including glycolic and
   salicylic acids, benzyl peroxide, astringents, and Vitamin C and depilatory creams. No masks
   or scrubs 2 weeks before & after treatment.
4. Stop using Retin-A, Differin, etc. for one week prior to treatment.
5. Please inform us if you have any history of “herpes”, “cold sores”, or “fever blisters”. In such
   instances, we recommend taking Valtrex 500mg, 1 tablet twice a day for 5 days starting on
   the day before the laser treatment. Like sunlight, laser light may cause a cold sore or fever
   blister leading to more serious complications.
6. On the day of treatment keep your areas clean, and free of make-up & lotions. Please arrive
   at our office 1 hour prior to the treatment in order for a topical anesthetic cream to be
   applied.

POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

1. Intense burning, redness, warmth, and a sunburned sensation are normal responses
   following the laser treatment. The discomfort and redness generally last 2-8 hours after the
   procedure. Cool compresses with a damp, soft cloth for 10-20 minutes at a time may help
   relieve the temporary discomfort. Tylenol may be taken as directed for pain.
2. Cicalfate or Cicaplast should be applied 2-4 times daily during the first 3 days. It is important
   for the treated area to remain soft and pliable during healing. The skin should not be
   allowed to dry out.
3. Within 48 hours the redness will have significantly improved. The day after the procedure,
   your skin will feel tight and may be itchy. Peeling or flaking will start on the 2nd or 3rd day
   following your treatment. No matter how tempting, do not pick or scrub your skin. Let the
   peeling and flaking occur naturally over the course of 7-10 days.
4. Quick cool-to-warm showers are recommended for the first 3 days. Use a soothing mild
   cleanser such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, or Bioderma; then reapply the Cicalfate or Cicaplast.
   Make sure your hands are clean & pat dry with a towel. Do not rub your skin!!
5. Aerobic exercise, saunas, and hot tubs should be avoided for 3 days.
6. Avoid use of topical skin care products containing Retin-A, retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic
   acid for 1 week.
7. Makeup can be used on the third day after the procedure. Caution should be used when
   applying and removing makeup. The treated area may be delicate and should be treated
   with care. Some patients will wake up with facial swelling, particularly around the eyes for
   several days following the treatment. This is normal and usually resolves within 3-5 days.
8. PROLONGED SUN EXPOSURE IS TO BE AVOIDED FOR 4 WEEKS BEFORE AND AFTER
   TREATMENT. A total sunblock containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide should be applied
   daily if you are in the sun. If further treatments are needed, a commitment to stay out of the
   sun is necessary. Sun exposure may cause certain complications such as permanent skin
   discoloration.
9. Remember: It has taken years to break down the collagen fibers in your body. It can take up
   to six months to see the end results of this procedure.