Pre-Care for Q-Switched Laser Facial:
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks before treatment. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen .
- Stop Certain Products: Discontinue use of retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and other exfoliating agents 5–7 days before treatment.
- Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of water and keep your skin moisturized.
- No Tanning: Avoid tanning beds or sunless tanners at least 2 weeks prior.
- Inform Your Provider: Share your full medical history, including medications, allergies, or skin conditions.
Post-Care for Q-Switched Laser Facial:
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight for at least 4 weeks.
- Keep Skin Moisturized: Use a gentle moisturizer to soothe and hydrate your skin.
- Avoid Heat: Skip hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours.
- No Picking or Scrubbing: Don’t pick at any scabs or peeling skin. Avoid exfoliating or abrasive skincare for at least a week.
- Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, non-irritating cleanser and lukewarm water.
- Avoid Makeup: If possible, avoid makeup for 24-48 hours after treatment or until your skin feels calm.
- Watch for Side Effects: Mild redness, swelling, or slight darkening of pigmentation is normal. If you notice severe pain, blistering, or infection, contact your provider immediately.
- Follow-up Treatments: Follow your provider’s schedule for repeat sessions and maintenance.
Note : Q-switched laser can sometimes lighten (bleach) or cause temporary discoloration of facial hair, especially if the hair is pigmented (dark). This happens because the laser targets pigment (melanin), and the hair follicles contain pigment, too.
What to know:
- Facial hair might lighten temporarily after treatment.
- This effect is more common in people with darker hair.
- The lightening usually fades over time as hair regrows.