Pre- & Post-Care:
Pico Laser Rejuvenation
Pico Laser Rejuvenation is a procedure utilizing state-of-the-art laser technology to treat brown spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage, along with stimulating collagen and elastin production. It also has the ability to remove tattoos. The number of sessions needed varies per patient.
This service REQUIRES a consultation before service can be performed so if you have not discussed with a provider this treatment, you MUST reschedule. They cannot be performed the same day.
PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR PICO:
- Avoid: Sun exposure, including tanning beds and the application of sunless tanning products for 2 weeks prior and after the treatment, preferably 4 weeks. Sun exposure, tanning, and sunless tanning products decrease the effectiveness of the laser treatment and increase the chance of post-treatment complications.
- Area to be treated must be clean, and free of any lotion, makeup, and sunscreen, with the exception of numbing cream if it is advised for you to use it. If you have any of these on, they must be completely washed off prior to treatment. If numbing cream is given or suggested, please apply it 30 minutes prior to your appointment.
- Accutane and any other photosensitizing medication should be discontinued for a period of at least 6 months prior to receiving treatment and should not be used during your course of treatment.
- Waxing and/or the use of chemical depilatories must be avoided in the treatment area for 2 weeks before and after the treatment to avoid skin sensitivity. Shaving is allowed before treatment to remove surface hair in the areas to be treated.
- You may not be pregnant for any treatment.
- During the course of your treatments, notify our staff of any changes to your medical history, health status, or personal activities that may be relevant to your treatment.
WHAT TO EXPECT POST-TREATMENT FOR PICO:
- Immediately after treatment, there may be “frosting” on the area that is treated. Redness and swelling is typical. Pinpoint bleeding may also occur.
- A cool compress may be applied and Tylenol is recommended for discomfort.
- The treated area should be cared for delicately until healing is complete. Do not apply any exfoliants or active ingredients (like retinol or vitamin c) until skin is healed.
POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR PICO:
- General (Pigment/Rejuvenation and Tattoo):
- Cleanse the treated area at least daily with water and mild soap, and then pat the area dry.
- Do not rub or scratch the treated area.
- If crusting/scabbing occurs, do not shave or pick area. Apply Aquaphor ointment (tattoo) or other moisturizer (face) to the area 2-3 times a day. Keep the area moist, and let the crusting/scabbing resolve on its own.
- Discomfort may be relieved by cold gel packs and/or an over the counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen.
- Avoid contact sports or any other activity that could cause injury of the treated area.
- Avoid swimming, soaking or using hot tubs/whirlpools until the skin heals.
- Contact the office if there is any indication of infection (redness, tenderness or pus).
- Additional Tattoo Removal Instructions:
- Clean treated area daily allowing water or shower to run over the wound or with mild unscented soap, and then pat the area dry.
- After cleansing and while skin is still moist, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor ointment to the treated tattoo.
- Apply a non-stick pad/gauze over the tattoo (after applying Aquaphor) until it is healed.
- Avoid sun exposure to the treated area. Use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply to the treated area every 2 hours when exposed to the sun and it is recommended to make this a part of your skin care routine.
- Do NOT pick, peel, rub, scrub, or scratch at the skin in the treatment area throughout the healing process. If crusting occurs, do not shave or pick area.
- Discomfort may be relieved by using cool gel packs or acetaminophen.
- If blistering occurs, keep the area moist by applying Aquaphor 3 times per day or antibiotic ointment per recommendation of your provider. Do not enter swimming pools or hot tubs until treated areas are healed.
- Physical exercise that causes perspiration should be discontinued for at least 2-7 days after treatment as excessive perspiration may disrupt the healing process.
SKINCARE INSTRUCTIONS POST-TREATMENT FOR PICO (Not Tattoo Removal):
- Cleansing: Cleanse the skin two times daily with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser (such as Cetaphil or Alastin Gentle Cleanser) beginning the morning after the treatment. Use your hands and gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrubs, or use an exfoliant or a skin care brush on the treated area.
- Use a soft cloth and soft towels to avoid any scrubbing. You may even use a soft, disposable towel (like from Clean Skin Club or a dupe) to PAT the skin dry after cleansing.
- Moisturizer: Generously apply moisturizer or Alastin Skin Nectar with clean hands over the treated area and reapply whenever your skin feels dry.
- Sunscreen: Sunscreen should be used beginning the day AFTER treatment and used consistently for up to 3 months post treatment. Use a physical sunscreen with broadband UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of at least 30 (such as Alastin SilkShield). Make sure to reapply during sun exposure. DO NOT exposure your skin to direct sun exposure for 14 days, as the treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change.
Contact us if you:
1. Experience blistering, broken skin, drainage (looks like pus), fever, severe swelling or severe pain. Apply antibiotic ointment, avoid direct sunlight, and call us immediately.
2. Have additional questions or concerns regarding your treatment/treatment follow-up.
Contact Us Today To Find Out If You Are A Candidate For Pico Laser!