Avoid sun exposure or tanning for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Tanned skin can shade blood vessels from the laser light, making treatment less effective and increasing the chance of discoloration.
Discontinue aspirin for 10 days prior to the procedure and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil or related products like Aleve, Naprosyn) for 5 days prior to the procedure. Avoid alcoholic beverages for 2 days prior. You may take Tylenol, which will not affect your laser results.
Do not use Retin A, Renova or glycolic acid products for 2 days before the treatment. And do not scrub or traumatize the skin to be treated.
A topical numbing cream called Topicaine will decrease any discomfort associated with the procedure and may be purchased in our office. Apply a generous amount of Topicaine 1 hour before your appointment and rub into the skin. Repeat this application again 10 minutes before your treatment.
