Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a great option for skin rejuvenation, addressing many concerns that arise as part of the natural aging process. The healthier your skin is prior to laser, the better your outcome will be. Dr. Goldman will recommend that you consult with one of the medical aestheticians a few months prior to your laser treatment in order to customize a regimen that is best for you and your skin type.

CO2 LASER WITH THE SURGEON’S SPA

The first step would be getting your skin in great condition before laser to get optimal results.

We want you to make an appointment to have a consult with one of our medical aestheticians to see which products would benefit you the most before laser, this could be starting a prescription medication like Retin A or 4% Hydroquinone to prep the skin. Pre and Post laser skin care is critical, you want to protect your investment and following out tips and guidelines will definitely help you in the long run.

YOU GOT CO2 LASER, NOW WHAT?

After laser post care is crucial, In order to heal properly and get the full benefits from CO2 laser we give you directions and help you along the way. At The Surgeon’s Spa – Beachwood and The Surgeon’s Spa – Westlake, Dr. Goldman and his team use two types of CO2 lasers Fraxel & Exelo. Even though the lasers are slightly different in the depth of penetration, they still have the same basic post care the only difference would be that Fraxel has a little more down time.

POST PROCEDURE: Days 1-3

1. No shower to face and neck for 24 hours after procedure.
2. Hand-washing is the most important thing you can do to prevent infection. Wash your hands every time before you touch treated areas.
3. You may also take Vicodin, one tablet, every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. Dr. Goldman may prescribe a different narcotic, use as directed.  Typically the pain after the procedure is not that intense.  You may opt to use Tylenol instead of the narcotic pain medication.
4. Keep your head elevated while resting, and for the first few nights. This helps reduce swelling and promote healing.
5. Remember to finish all of your oral antibiotic medication as prescribed, Acyclovir and Keflex.
6. Avoid excessive sweating and physical activity until directed.
7. Avoid make up or cover-up creams until directed.  Typically, it is 7-10 days for the Exelo and 10-14 days for the Fraxel

Read complete directions for immediate post laser care here.

Tips: staying hydrated is key; Aquaphor is your best friend!

Also, once you are done with vinegar soaks and Aquaphor you will make another appointment to see one of our medical aestheticians to get on a new skin care lines that’s proven to increase healing.

SKINCARE TO CONTINUE RECOVERY: Post Laser Care After Day 4

These directions are for when your vinegar soaks are completed. At your first appointment after treatment your Medical Aesthetician will give you these products and review directions for use for your particular healing needs. Products may be changed based on your skin care needs but this protocol is typical after laser. It is crucial that the post laser instructions are followed to achieve best results. Please contact the office if you have any questions or concerns.

 

Step 1

Avène Antirougeurs Redness Relief Dermo-Cleansing Milk Wash
This cream cleanser can be used as needed to wash your face and/or neck. Please use tepid water and gently wash the treated area. Remove cleanser with water and gently pat dry with soft towel.

Step 2

(one or both of the below creams)
 Avène Cicalfate Crème Restorative Skin Cream
Technologically advanced skin restorative moisturizing cream clinically proven to help speed the recovery process by maintaining an optimal healing environment for the skin. Please place a thin layer over laser treated areas and continue as needed to keep area hydrated. If you have some areas that still are a little scabbed please place the Aquaphor over top of the Cicalfate moisturizer if needed.

 Avène Xera Calm AD
This is an additional product that also serves as a moisturizing cream for the more intense laser treatments and/or areas that are slower to heal. If you didn’t get this product in your aftercare laser products please use the Cicalfate crème as directed above. The Xera Calm AD is a non-greasy moisturizing formula that provides long-lasting hydration to severely dry skin by sealing in moisture and helping to restore the skin barrier. Place on as needed after washing to keep skin hydrated

Step 3

 Avène Thermal Spring Water
Avène Thermal Spring Water soothes, softens and calms the skin. Spray onto the skin in a fine mist. Leave on for 2 to 3 minutes, and then gently pat dry. Spray on as often as necessary. This can also be used right after washing, before you apply the Cicalfate or XeraCalm.

Please call our office with any questions or concerns as you heal from laser treatment. All post treatment appointments are at no charge to you and we are here to see you through the healing process.

Beachwood office: 216.514.8899 or Westlake office: 440.871.8899