what to expect: LaseMD ultra resurfacing

LaseMD Ultra is a non-ablative fractional laser that resurfaces the skin and stimulates collagen production. The result is smooth glowing skin with improved texture, decreased pigment/dark spots, smaller pores, and diminished fine lines. This is usually evident within a week or two once the skin has healed. Collagen production occurs more slowly over the course of several months - this helps maintain the skin’s springy dermal layer and further improve fine lines and wrinkles.

Preparation:

• Arrive with clean, make-up free skin. Minimal skincare and SPF is ok. 
• Stop topical Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin) & other active ingredient skincare ~5 days prior.
• If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex virus) we can provide a prescription to prevent an outbreak. This is ideally started 1-2 days pre-procedure; please coordinate with your provider ahead of time.
• If you have a darker skin tone, are prone to hyperpigmentation, or have melasma, it may be recommended to pre-treat your skin for several weeks with a topical pigment controlling agent. This reduces the chance of post-procedural skin discoloration. Discuss with your provider if you feel you fall into this category & it has not yet been addressed.

Day of the Procedure:

• Skin will be cleansed and before photos taken for your medical record.
• A strong topical anesthetic will be applied to the areas being treated for 30 min. 
• The treatment itself takes about 15-30 minutes depending on the areas being treated, but expect to be here for the entire 90 minute appointment.
• After, medical grade topicals and a specialized sheet mask are applied to calm the skin.

Post-Procedure:

• Immediately after, treated areas will be red and mildly swollen. Skin may feel warm to hot for several hours. Some experience minor irritation or the sensation of a sun burn.
• Mild swelling generally resolves within 1-2 days, but can be minimized by limiting salt intake, staying well hydrated, and if needed, taking an over the counter anti-histamine such as Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin, etc.
• After a day or two, the skin develops a sandpaper-like feel. This largely dissipates within 1 week but can take up 14 days to fully resolve (skin is now “resurfaced”). Dryness and flakiness may occur.
• Immediately start using sunscreen (>SPF30) on the treated area. You are more sensitive to UV rays while healing and in the weeks after. Avoid direct or prolonged sun exposure, reapply SPF as directed, and consider hats/visors. Continue daily sunscreen use for general skin health and optimal results.
• Avoid swimming, strenuous activity, and exercising for 24-48 hours.
• Rarely acne breakouts occur after LaseMD. Avoid thick occlusive products like vaseline and aquaphor in particular if you are prone to this. If a breakout occurs, avoid picking or popping and reach out to your provider. If needed a prescription can be written.

SKIN CARE POST LaseMD:

• Avoid makeup for the rest of the day. Then tinted sunscreens safe for post procedure skin (EltaMD, Sente, etc) may offer makeup-like coverage. Or, Jane Iredale or other high quality mineral makeup may be worn if needed. We recommend avoiding other makeup while healing due to risk of break outs or rashes. Do not use dirty makeup tools.
• Avoid retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, etc), AHA/BHAs (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, etc), vitamin C serum, or other irritation prone active ingredients for the first few days.
• Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 mins before going outdoors. It should be re-applied after going into water and at intervals according to product instructions. We recommend EltaMD or Sente brands which are both specifically formulated for post procedure skin.
• During the first 3 days use: a gentle cleanser, gentle moisturizer, sunscreen, and any post procedure specific skincare recommended to you. We recommend the products below for optimal healing time and results:

MORNING - FIRST 3 DAYS

1. Cleanse with gentle cleanser: Sente Daily Soothing Cleanser
2. Plated Intensive or Daily Exosome Serum (recommended) *remember to wait 5-10 min after applying before next skincare step.
3. Sente Dermal Repair Cream treatment
4. +/- Hyaluronic Acid serum (optional: recommended for dehydrated skin)
5. Moisturizer: Zerafite Soothing and Calming Moisturizer or Zerafite Barrier Repair Cream
6. Sunscreen: EltaMD or Sente
7. Jane Iredale foundation (if needed)

EVENING - FIRST 3 DAYS

1. Cleanse with gentle cleanser: Sente Daily Soothing Cleanser
2. Sente Dermal Repair Cream treatment
3. +/- Hyaluronic Acid serum (optional: recommended for dehydrated skin)
4. Moisturizer: Zerafite Soothing and Calming Moisturizer or Zerafite Barrrier Repair Cream

Results and Expectations:

Usually a series of treatments is needed to achieve the full desired effect (commonly, 3 treatments spaced 1-2 months apart). However, your individualized plan may vary based on your personal skin characteristics, goals, and lifestyle. Pairing these procedures with a high quality skincare regimen tailored to your needs will always yield enhanced results and help you better maintain your results - your provider can help with this!