Laser Therapy: ProFractional and BBL

Pre and post care guide

As you prepare for your lasering session, we have some advice and tips for making the most of your treatment. Below you will find practical advice alongside healthy suggestions to help you achieve the transformation you’re hoping for.

01. PREPARE

the days before your laser treatment

What to expect

BBL is a non-invasive, gentle procedure that requires practically zero downtime. In most cases, people can resume their daily routine without any interruptions.

prior to your session, spend a few days preparing your skin with the following advice

• Avoid blood-thinning medications. Over-the-counter medications that rely on blood-thinning should be avoided. We will numb your skin topically before your session begins. Please consult your physician if you are taking Aspirin for medical reasons!

• Avoid topical “anti-aging” and “acne” products for three days prior to your appointment. These may cause irritation or sensitivity during your laser session.
  specifically ingredients such as: Tretinoin (Retin-A), Retinols, Retinoids, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Acne creams, and gels

• Do not use P50 (or retinols) for one week before your session.

• Use a moisturizer with 30+ SPF to protect your skin from sun exposure. If your skin has recently tanned or has even the slightest sunburn, it will affect your treatment.

• Drink water before and after your treatment. We want to make sure your skin is at its best and ready to recover quickly for best results.

• Avoid scented lotions

• Avoid physical exfoliation such as loofa sponges, aggressive scrubbing, and shaving

• Come in with a clean face. Be sure your skin is free from makeup or excess products when you arrive for your treatment.

• No alcohol 48 hours prior

• Avoid sugar and dairy for 24 hours beforehand

• Do not eat a high sodium meals 72 hours pre or post-treatment session

• No antibiotics for 2 weeks

02. POST-SESSION

after and between your sessions

what to expect

During BBL recovery, we recommend that you avoid exfoliants, scented lotions, and aggressive scrubbing. In many cases, patients experience redness, slight bruising, or flakiness, which may persist for a few hours or days. We suggest cold a compress to alleviate any discomfort or swelling you may have.

Freckles and sunspots may turn darker initially and then flake off within 7-14 days for facial treatments and 4-6 weeks for body areas. This is a desired and normal reaction. You may notice small flecks of pigment on the surface of the skin. They often look like coffee grounds. This is your skin expelling the excess pigment. Do not try to scrub this off or pick at it. It will naturally rinse off with a gentle cleanser (like Lait milk cleanser) during your regular skincare routine. The full effects of your BBL treatment depend on you allowing the skin to heal and rejuvenate itself. 

The skin may appear red and swollen and have a mild sunburn sensation. This is normal. It can last from a few hours or a few days after treatment. Applying an ice pack for the first 24 hours will help minimize swelling. On rare occasions, when areas around the eyes are treated, there is a possibility of prolonged swelling which may last up to one to two weeks. If this occurs it is recommended to sleep upright on your back with a few extra pillows

Once these subside, you will notice visibly radiant skin with a smooth and even texture.   

Contact Us If…

In case of itchiness, swelling, or tenderness for an extended period of time (7-14 days), it could be a symptom of an allergic reaction. If a large area or entire area has blistered then contact the office immediately.

03. AFTERCARE ADVICE

Moisturize

• Step one in our BBL aftercare regime is staying hydrated. Drink plenty of water and be sure to keep your skin moisturized.  

• In the event that you experience any peeling, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor and/or anti-scarring solution for one week or until the dermis heals completely. If swelling occurs, apply a cool compress for five to 10 minutes as needed.

allow your skin to heal

• Refrain from scratching, rubbing, or picking at the treatment site until your skin heals entirely. It’s common that brown patches or spots will look darker after your treatment, but it’s absolutely imperative that you do not pick or scrub these spots.

Stay Hydrated

• Within the first few days after your treatment, dry skin is fairly common. Hydration is a key element during your BBL aftercare period. Water is the answer to many of our skincare concerns. 

Avoid chemical or temperature exposure

• If possible, take care to avoid chemical exposure such as swimming pools and spas with multiple chemicals/chlorine.

• Use tepid water. If possible, stay in a comfortable environment and take care to avoid excessive heat or chill.

• Stop retinol and P50 7 days prior to treatment. Can resume the following day after treatment

Avoid Direct Sun Exposure 

• It’s important to note that prolonged sun exposure should be avoided for four weeks before and after treatment. When you do step outside, use both a sunscreen and hat if possible.

• This is why we typically suggest your laser treatments are scheduled in the fall and winter months.

Pain Relievers

• If you experience persistent pain, aloe vera with lidocaine is available over the counter can be applied to the treatment area.