Laser Post-Care Guide
1. Immediately After Treatment (First 24 Hours)
- Redness & Warmth: Your skin may feel like a mild sunburn—warm, pink, and slightly tight. This usually resolves within 24–48 hours.
- Swelling: Mild swelling, especially around the eyes or lips, is normal.
- Makeup: Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours post-treatment to allow your skin to breathe.
- Cooling: Apply cool compresses or an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth to calm heat and swelling.
2. Cleansing & Skincare
- Cleansing: Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser (e.g., Cetaphil, CeraVe). Wash with lukewarm—not hot—water.
- Moisturizing: Apply a bland, hydrating moisturizer (Aquaphor, CeraVe, Vanicream). This keeps skin hydrated and helps healing.
- No Active Ingredients: Avoid retinol, vitamin C, glycolic/salicylic acid, or any exfoliating products for 7–10 days.
3. Sun Protection
- Absolute Must: Your skin will be photosensitive. Strict sun avoidance is critical.
- SPF: Use a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily, even indoors.
- Physical Protection: Wide-brim hats, sunglasses, and limiting direct sun exposure are highly recommended.
4. Expected Skin Changes
- For BBL:
- Pigmented spots may darken ("peppering") and flake off within 7–14 days.
- Redness and small vessels should fade gradually.
- For MOXI:
- Skin will develop a “sandpaper” texture as micro-epidermal debris surfaces.
- Flaking/peeling usually occurs days 3–5 and can last up to a week.
- Do NOT pick, scratch, or exfoliate—let skin naturally shed.
5. Activity Restrictions
- First 48 Hours:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, hot tubs, or anything that causes excessive heat/sweating.
- First Week:
- Avoid self-tanners, tanning beds, or harsh skincare treatments.
- No chemical peels, waxing, or exfoliating facials.
6. Comfort Measures
- Itching/Tightness: Use a bland moisturizer or Aquaphor.
- Pain Relief: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is preferred if needed. Avoid NSAIDs (like Advil) unless instructed, as they may increase bruising risk.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support skin healing.
7. Timeline for Recovery
- Day 1–2: Redness, warmth, swelling.
- Day 3–5: MOXI roughness + flaking begins; BBL spots darken.
- Day 5–7: Flaking subsides; skin looks fresher, more even.
- Day 7–14: Final shedding; pigmentation clears.
- 4–6 Weeks: Best results appear. Series of treatments may be needed for optimal correction.
8. When to Call Your Provider
- Severe pain not relieved by cool compresses or Tylenol.
- Blistering, oozing, or signs of infection.
- Persistent swelling beyond 5 days.
- Any concerns about healing or unexpected reactions.
Key Takeaway: Be gentle, keep skin hydrated, protect from sun, and allow natural healing. Results build over time—trust the process.