General
- A mild sunburn-like sensation is expected. This usually lasts 2-24 hours but can persist up to 72 hours. Mild swelling and/or redness may accompany this, but it usually resolves in 2-3 days.
- Apply ice or cold packs to the treatment area for 10-15 minutes every hour for the next four hours, as needed. An oral, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, such as acetaminophen may be taken to reduce discomfort. Use according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
- In some cases, prolonged redness or blistering may occur. An antibiotic ointment may be applied to the affected area(s) twice a day until healed.
- Bathe or shower as usual. Treated areas may be temperature sensitive. Cool showers or baths will offer relief. Avoid aggressive scrubbing and use of exfoliants, scrub brushes and loofa sponges until treatment area has returned to its pre-treatment condition.
- Until redness has completely resolved, avoid all of the following:
- Applying cosmetics to treated areas.
- Swimming, especially in pools with chemicals, such as chlorine
- Hot tubs and jacuzzis
- Activities that cause excessive perspiration
- Sun exposure to treated ares. Apply an SPF-30 or greater sunscreen to prevent development of new pigmented areas.
For Hair Removal
- Appearance of hair growth or stubble will continue for 7-30 days post-treatment. This is not new hair, but the treated hairs being expelled from the skin.
- In patients with facial hirsutism who have been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome and presenting ovarian hyperrandrogenism, there is a risk of paradoxical effect resulting from the activation of dormant hair follicles in untreated areas close to hirsute-treated areas.
For Pigmented Lesion Treatment
- The lesion may initially look raised and/or darker with reddened perimeter.
- The lesion will gradually turn darker over the next 24-48 hours. It may turn dark brown or even black.
- The lesion will progress to scabs/crusting and will start flaking off in 7-14 days. Do not pick, scratch or remove scabs.
- The lesion is usually healed in 21-30 days. It will continue to fade over the next 6-8 weeks.
For Vascular Lesion Treatment
- The vessels may undergo immediate graying and blanching or they may exhibit a slight purple or red coloring. The vessels will fully or partially fade in about 10-14 days. Do not pick, scratch or remove scabs.
- Repeat treatments may be performed every 7-10 days if skin has fully recovered.
