After Care Instructions for Ablative Fractional Laser Resurfacing

1. Avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks following the procedure. If you anticipate potential sun exposure, wear a dense broad-rim hat and sunglasses. Sunscreen should not be applied until the skin is not sensitive to touch (usually day 3-5 after the procedure).

2. Apply an ice pack or bag of frozen peas to the treatment area for 10-15 minutes every hour for the immediate four hours after the procedure (please wrap a clean soft cloth around the ice pack to prevent direct contact with your skin).

3. If provided, please take oral antibiotic or anti-viral medication as directed.

4. You may take an oral, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, if necessary to relieve any discomfort.  Use according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

5. Apply vinegar soaks three times a day for five days following the procedure to assist the rejuvenation process. How to make vinegar soak:

• Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar with a pint of cool water
• Soak a clean white towel with the vinegar mixture then apply the wet cloth against the treated skin for 30 seconds. Repeat until all the treatment areas have been cleanse

6. Apply healing cream liberally to treatment areas three times a day (Aloe-vera gel, Biafine cream, or Aquaphor healing ointment)

7. Bath or shower as usual.

8. Avoid the use of exfoliants, mechanical scrubbing, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, facials, shaving, and waxing for two weeks following the procedure.

9. Make-up may be used once the skin does not feel sensitive to touch.  Use of new make-up is advised to minimize risk of transferring bacteria to the treatment areas.

10. Communicate any questions or concerns to Dr. Liu here.