How to care for your skin between laser sessions

Sep 29

Taking care of your skin between laser sessions is essential for maintaining the results of your treatment, preventing irritation, and promoting healing. Here’s how you can care for your skin between laser treatments:

1. Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Moisturise: Use a gentle, hydrating moisturiser to help restore the skin's barrier and keep it soft. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
Avoid Drying Products: Avoid alcohol-based toners or harsh exfoliants that can strip moisture from your skin.

2. Apply Sunscreen Daily

SPF 30+ or Higher: Protect your skin from UV damage by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day. Laser-treated skin is more sensitive to the sun.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Try to stay out of direct sunlight for at least 1-2 weeks after each laser session, as UV exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation or burns.

3. Avoid Exfoliation

Skip Scrubs and Peels: After laser treatments, your skin may be sensitive. Avoid using physical exfoliants, chemical peels, or retinoids for at least a week to prevent irritation or damage.
Let Skin Heal Naturally: Allow any peeling or flaking to happen naturally—do not pick at your skin.

4. Use Gentle, Non-Irritating Products

Fragrance-Free: Choose products that are fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin to avoid any unnecessary irritation.
Gentle Cleanser: Use a mild, non-foaming cleanser to wash your face. Avoid anything with strong active ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs).

5. Avoid Heat Exposure

No Hot Showers or Saunas: Stay away from heat sources like saunas, hot baths, or steam rooms for at least 48-72 hours after treatment. Heat can worsen redness and slow down the healing process.
Avoid Intense Workouts: Heavy sweating or intense exercise can irritate your skin post-laser, so opt for lighter physical activity until your skin fully recovers.

6. Treat Redness and Swelling

Cold Compresses: If your skin feels warm or looks red after the laser session, applying a cold compress can help soothe inflammation and reduce swelling.
Aloe Vera or Calming Creams: Aloe vera gel or creams designed for post-laser care can help calm the skin and reduce irritation.

7. Avoid Makeup for 24-48 Hours

Skip Heavy Makeup: Let your skin breathe for at least 24 hours post-treatment. If makeup is necessary, opt for mineral-based, non-comedogenic formulas.
Clean Brushes: Always ensure makeup brushes are clean to avoid introducing bacteria to your healing skin.

8. Be Patient with Results

Don't Pick or Scrub: Your skin may peel or develop crusts as it heals—this is normal. Avoid picking at it to prevent scarring or infection.
Follow Your Provider's Instructions: Stick to the aftercare routine provided by your dermatologist or laser technician for optimal recovery.

9. Hydrate and Nourish from Within

Drink Water: Keeping your body hydrated helps your skin heal faster.
Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids, to support skin health during the healing process.

10. Consult Your Provider for Specific Concerns

If you experience any unusual symptoms like excessive redness, swelling, or pain, or if you’re unsure about certain skincare products, consult your dermatologist for advice.

By following these steps, you'll protect your skin between laser treatments, ensuring smoother, healthier results.

Shivani Thakur