Laser treatments can be an effective form of treatment for unwanted pigmentation spots on the face. From birthmarks to freckles or sun spots, lasers can help to treat a wide range of skin pigmentation issues. They work by breaking down specific areas of the skin at the cellular level to shatter the pigments into smaller pieces which are then removed by the body’s natural processes.
Learn More: Top Skin Problems: Skin Pigmentation And Telangiectasia
While results can be seen fairly quickly, multiple sessions might still be required, depending on the extent of pigmentation. After each procedure, it’s important to follow some basic skincare steps to get the best results out of your treatment and to prevent complications.
1) Avoid The Sun
Immediately after a laser treatment, your skin is going to be more sensitive. At this stage, it’s best to stay away from the sun’s damaging UV rays and try to stay indoors as much as possible. This will help reduce the risk of discomfort, dark spots, or other kinds of sun damage.
Stay within shaded areas if you have to move outdoors. Wear a hat or bring an umbrella to keep as much sunlight off your face as possible. Sunscreen is another good option, especially considering that sunlight can still filter indoors through windows.
2) Cleanse Gently
You need to keep the area clean after a laser procedure. Your dermatologist might have a few recommendations for gentle cleaning solutions that can clean the area of dirt, oils, and bacteria without being too rough on the sensitive skin. Avoid cleansers or facial washes with harsh ingredients.
3) Keep Your Skin Moisturised
Moisturising your skin is extremely important after a laser treatment for your face. It aids the healing process, hydrates the skin, and creates a protective barrier to keep germs out. Moisturising can also help prevent the appearance of scabs and crusts.
Consult your dermatologist about the best type of moisturiser to use on your face after treatment. Some options include Vaseline, petroleum jelly, or products that contain hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid, vitamin E, lanolin, or aloe.
4) Avoid Peeling Flaky Skin
Redness, flakiness, and crusting are usually common after a laser treatment. Patients have to understand that it’s a natural part of the process and they have to wait until the skin heals to see the real outcome of the procedure. During this healing period, the temptation might be there to peel off the flaky skin or pick at the crusts.
Avoid doing this at all costs. It does not speed up the healing time and actively interferes with the process. The dead skin that gets flaked or peeled away acts as a natural wound barrier that protects the skin below. It should come off by itself once the new skin underneath is healthy. Be patient and let your body go through the natural healing cycle.
Taking the leap and going for a laser treatment for pigmentation issues can be a big moment for some. However the onus is on patients to follow the strict instructions and guidelines provided by their dermatologists to get the best results possible and avoid running into further problems.
Have a dermatological issue and considering getting laser treatment? Thomson Specialist Skin Centre provides evidence-based, patient-centric services for a wide range of conditions. Contact us today to set up a consultation and send in any questions you may have. Our support team will respond promptly.