How to Make the Most of Your Laser Treatment

TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LASER TREATMENT

  1. NO TANNING 2 weeks before laser treatment or 2 weeks after! This included natural sunlight, artificial sun, and sunless tanning (creams and sprays). Be honest with us if you have had sun exposure, and we can reschedule treatment. Why risk the chance of PERMANENT PIGMENT CHANGES??
  2. Don't pluck or wax six weeks before or during laser treatment. Shaving is ok. If there is no hair for the laser to treat, you are wasting your time and money.
  3. To avoid bruising during vein treatment, do not take Vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), or Aleve for one week prior to treatment UNLESS you have been directed by your physician to take these medications.
  4. Take 800mg of ibuprofen (Advil) an hour prior to your hair removal session unless your doctor has advised you not to take such medications.
  5. Do not use products that contain sparkles (Bath & Body Works) the day of treatment.
  6. Shave the area to be treated the day before to avoid irritation.
  7. Come in for your treatment with super clean skin.
  8. Come to your appointment well-hydrated. The water in hydrated skin absorbs the 'shock' of the laser, resulting in greater comfort. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol prior to your appointment prevents dehydration as well.
  9. Come in well-rested. Being tired and over-stimulated makes a person tense, and can increase pain sensitivity.
  10. If you are anxious about your treatment, ask questions to alleviate the fear of the unknown. Tensing your body can make pain worse, so knowing what to expect can help.
  11. Use EMLA cream to help numb the area. It is available for sale here in the office, or we can call it in to your pharmacy. EMLA needs to be applied to the area to be treated one hour prior and covered with plastic wrap (Glad Press n Seal works well). This will need to be washed off immediately before laser treatment.
  12. Some women find that treatment is less painful within the two weeks after the end of their menstrual cycle.
  13. If you are having a larger area treated, such as legs or back, bring along a hand-held device such as a Game Boy or PSP to distract you during treatment.
  14. Apply aloe, Solarcaine or menthol gel with cool compresses after treatment to decrease discomfort.
  15. If you have swelling and itching, you can use an antihistamine, like Benadryl, or a topical hydrocortisone cream to the affected area.
  16. For vein treatment, avoid exercise, alcohol, hot tubs/saunas or anything that raises blood pressure for several days after.
  17. If you develop a blister, keep the area clean, apply triple antibiotic ointment, and watch for signs of infection.
  18. If all else fails, try to imagine how great it will be with smooth, hair-free skin!