How to prepare for a laser skin resurfacing procedure

Laser skin resurfacing, also known as laser resurfacing or laser skin treatment, is a dermatological procedure that can help reduce or erase fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, and pigmentation, such as sun spots and the freckles. This is done by using direct, short, focused, pulsating light or laser beams. This procedure can use ablative, non-ablative lasers or CO2 fractional lasers, among others, depending on the patient’s health and skin condition and the doctor’s recommendation.

To ensure that this dermatological procedure is safe, works well for you, and enjoys its benefits for a long time, you need to know how to properly prepare for the treatment. Here are some highly recommended laser skin resurfacing preparation tips that you should follow:

• Use retinoids. Your dermatologist will recommend that you use moisturizers that contain Retin-A in the weeks leading up to the procedure. This is because Retin-A thins the stratum corneum or the top layer of the skin and programs the cells to divide and multiply, something that will be really helpful during the procedure. Another tip worth keeping in mind is that if you have leftover retinoid-based cream, don’t throw it away as you can use it again a few weeks after your skin heals as it can help keep your new look fresh.

• Apply bleaching cream. In addition to retinoid-rich moisturizers, you’ll also need to start using a whitening cream before your procedure. You should apply this every day before treatment to help offset any potential issues with skin darkening that may be caused by the laser.

• Avoid smoking. Smoking will decrease blood flow to the skin and make healing from the procedure much longer and even more difficult. Most doctors will recommend that patients who smoke avoid smoking for a few weeks before and after treatment to help them heal.

• Take prescribed antibiotics. Your skin provides a protective layer that keeps out bacteria and other harmful organisms. Laser treatments temporarily burn away this protection, leaving the skin vulnerable to infection. Your doctor will likely prescribe a short course of antibiotics a few days before your procedure to help ward off any invaders that can cause serious infection and complications (such as strep and staph).

• Stop taking blood-thinning medications. Lastly, blood thinners can keep your injuries from healing. They can also increase the risk of complications from your procedure. Pay attention to your doctor when he tells you to stop taking blood-thinning medications and other pain relievers that have this effect, such as aspirin and ibuprofen and even vitamin E.