Active Acne &
Acne Scarring

1. First, check the contraindication (restriction) checklist to make sure you are eligible of laser/ipl treatment.

2. Beginning 2 weeks prior to treatment:

• Avoid sun-exposure or tanning beds.

• Discontinue use of topical exfoliating agents (Glycolics/ Alpha or Beta-hydroxy acids)

• Discontinue retinoid medications e.g. Retinol, Tretinoin (Retin-A/ Atralin), Adapalene (Differin), Tazarotene (Tazorac), etc. and OTC anti-aging products contain retinol or retinaldehyde.

3. The day of the procedure:

* Come with a clean face with no makeup, lotion, etc.

Active Acne Post Treatment Guidelines

Patient response can vary after a Laser Acne treatment. Erythema (redness) is usually noted within a few minutes after the completion of the procedure. A slight sun burn sensation in and around the area treated is also normal and expected. These reactions tend to subside within 1-4 hours after the treatment. The treated area must be treated with care. BE GENTLE! Do not scratch or pick at your skin.

• A cold compress or ice pack can be used to provide comfort if the treated area is especially warm. This is rarely needed, but if so, usually within the first 4 hours after treatment.

• Until sensitivity has completely subsided, avoid all of the following:

  • Use of scented lotions or soaps, exfoliant creams (Retin-A, glycolic/salicylic and alpha- hydroxy acids), acne creams or gels, loofa sponges and aggressive scrubbing

  • Hot or cold water - wash with tepid water

  • Shaving

  • Swimming pools and spas with multiple chemicals/chlorine

  • Activities that cause excessive perspiration

• It is best recommended to leave your skin without any make-up for a few days. Some ingredients in the cosmetics may clog your pores, and not allow your skin to breathe or heal properly over time.

• Vitamin E or Aloe Vera applied to the treatment area may provide a soothing effect.

• Post treatment discomfort is typically minimal but if the area is very uncomfortable, oral pain relievers; i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol or Advil, may be used.

• If the skin is broken or a blister appears, apply an antibiotic ointment and contact the office immediately. Keep the affected area moist and avoid direct sunlight.

• Strictly avoid any sun exposure to the treated area for a minimum of 7 – 14 days after the procedure. The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change. Keep the area covered and use a sun block with a protection factor of 30+ reapplying the sun block every two hours. Delayed blistering secondary to sun exposure has been noted up to 72 hours post treatment.

• Subsequent treatments are based upon your clinician’s recommendation and are typically 1- 2 treatments per week for at least 6 weeks or until acne clears. The number and frequency of treatments required will depend on the severity of your acne and how well it responds to treatment.

• Clinical studies suggest that at least two laser acne treatments are needed to begin to see results and results have been reported to last up to 6 months.

Acne Scarring Post-Treatment Guidelines

Post-Treatment:

• You may experience minor redness or mild swelling for a few hours after treatment

• Rarely, you may see small areas of pin-point bleeding and occasional small blisters may form (do not pick or pop).

• The treated area may itch for several weeks and may feel dry or flaky.

Post-Care Treatment:

• You may apply cold air or an ice pack to sooth the treated area and antibiotic ointment to avoid possible inflammation.

• You can use fragrance-free, perfume-free moisturizer cream on the area

• KEEP THE AREA TREATED OUT OF THE SUN FOR 7-10DAYS AFTER TREATMENT

• The use of sunscreen is recommended post-treatment for approximately 6-12 weeks.

• It is best recommended to leave your skin without any make-up for a few days. Some ingredients in the cosmetics may clog your pores, and not allow your skin to breathe or heal properly over time.