Pre-treatment
The procedure and expectations should have been explained to you thoroughly and you will have had the opportunity to review the CO2 page with video and the laser in action on YouTube.
Start medication: Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is an effective antiviral antibiotic to minimize your risk of a cold sore arising after treatment that could jeopardize your final results. Ensure that you start your prescription the day before treatment and take it for the full five day. If you suspect that you are getting a cold sore despite this medication, double the dose to two tablets twice a day and call the office 250-860-9919.
Post-Treatment
To maximize your results from your skin rejuvenation, please read this carefully. If you’re unsure or have any questions with regards to your treatments, please ask or phone the clinic for instructions and reassurance.
TREATMENT RESULTS/EXPECTATIONS
- Depending on the depth of treatment, the skin may initially have an appearance ranging from pink and shiny to gray.
- Rough texture may last an average of one to three days.
- Skin may initially have a red and swollen appearance and you may experience some pinpoint bleeding.
Please Do
- Cooling: Ice packs are vital for the first three to four hours after laser therapy is completed and may be required later during the first 24 hours. This will help relieve any swelling and discomfort. You can use frozen peas wrapped in a damp cloth or place wet face clothes in the freezer and apply when they are very cold but not frozen.
- To decrease swelling, elevate the head of your bed using two or more pillows for the first night.
- On day 2, begin gentle cleansing of the skin twice a day with the non-allergenic cleanser as provided (Cetaphil). DO NOT SCRUB! Repeat occlusive ointment (Aquafor) after each wash. This will decrease the healing time and minimize discomfort. If irritation or burning occur with the wash, wait and try the following day.
- Keep treated area covered with the occlusive ointment (e.g. Aquafor) for the first two days. After this time, you may start to apply your own moisturizer. If you are using your own moisturizer, use one without any perfumes, dyes, or alcohol.
- Your skin may feel a little crusty and sandpapery for the first few days. Please do not pick the crusting. Allow the skin to slough off naturally.
- After the first two to three days and when comfortable, resume sunscreen and make-up. You can use anti-itch cream (e.g. Aveeno) after the third day.
- Ensure that you complete the course of anti-viral medication (e.g. Valtrex) post-treatment.
Please Avoid
- Please do not pick the crusting. Allow the skin to slough off naturally.
Pain Management
- We recommend extra strength Tylenol for the first hours post treatment.
Follow-up
- Please return as scheduled for follow-up appointment.
If you have any concerns or questions, please contact the clinic immediately:
Phone 250-860-9919, or toll-free 1.888.860.9919, or email care@veinskin.com.