Pre-treatment Recommendations

 

To ensure the best possible outcome from your Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment and to minimize potential complications, please carefully read and follow these instructions. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact our office.

 

4 WEEKS BEFORE TREATMENT:

• SUN EXPOSURE: Strictly avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds. Your skin must not be tanned (including spray tans or self-tanners) at the time of treatment. Tanned skin increases the risk of complications such as blistering and pigmentation changes. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.

• Certain Medications: Inform Dr. Schaefer if you have taken Accutane® (isotretinoin) within the past 6-12 months, as this may affect healing.

• Photosensitizing Medications: Discuss any medications that can cause photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to light) with Dr. Schaefer.

 

2 WEEKS BEFORE TREATMENT:

• Skincare Products: Discontinue the use of topical retinoids (e.g., Retin-A®, Tretinoin, Differin®, Tazorac®), exfoliants (e.g., glycolic acid, salicylic acid, AHAs, BHAs), and any potentially irritating skincare products on the areas to be treated, unless otherwise directed by Dr. Schaefer.

• Aggressive Skin Treatments: Avoid other aggressive skin treatments in the planned treatment area, such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or other laser treatments, unless specifically coordinated by Dr. Schaefer.

• Hair Removal: Avoid waxing, tweezing, or using depilatory creams in the treatment area. Shaving is acceptable.

 

1 WEEK BEFORE TREATMENT:

• Medications & Supplements: Avoid medications and supplements that can increase bleeding or bruising, such as:

  • Aspirin (unless prescribed by a physician for a medical condition)

  • NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Advil®, Motrin®, Naproxen, Aleve®)

  • High-dose Vitamin E

  • Fish oil / Omega-3 fatty acids

  • Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, St. John's Wort
    (If you are on prescribed blood thinners like Warfarin (Coumadin®) or Plavix®, do NOT stop them without consulting your prescribing physician. Discuss this with Dr. Schaefer well in advance.)

 

• Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex): If you have a history of cold sores or herpes outbreaks near the treatment area, please inform Dr. Schaefer immediately. She may prescribe an antiviral medication (e.g., Valtrex®, Acyclovir) to start taking 1-2 days before your treatment and continue for several days after to prevent an outbreak.

24-48 HOURS BEFORE TREATMENT:

• Alcohol: Avoid alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration and potentially increase bruising.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to ensure your skin is well-hydrated.

 

DAY OF TREATMENT:

• Clean Skin: Arrive at your appointment with the treatment area clean and free of all makeup, lotions, perfumes, sunscreens, or any other topical products.

• Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, especially if treating areas on the body. A button-down shirt may be easier if treating the face or neck.

• Shaving (Men): Men undergoing facial treatment should shave on the morning of the procedure.

• Contact Lenses: If treating around the eyes, you may be asked to remove contact lenses. Bring your glasses.

• Arrange Transportation (if applicable): Depending on the extent of the treatment and any pre-medication given for comfort (if applicable), you might feel more comfortable having someone drive you home. Discuss this with our office.

• Topical Anesthetic: A topical anesthetic cream will be applied to the treatment area in our office approximately 45-60 minutes before your procedure to minimize discomfort. Please arrive on time to allow for this.

• Eat a Light Meal: Have a light meal or snack before your appointment.

 

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS:

• Medical History: Please ensure Dr. Schaefer is aware of your complete medical history, including any allergies, current medications (prescription and over-the-counter), and any history of skin conditions or poor healing.

• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Inform Dr. Schaefer if you are pregnant, suspect you might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding. This treatment is generally not recommended under these conditions.

• Questions: This is your opportunity to ask any remaining questions before the procedure. We want you to feel fully informed and comfortable.

 

Failure to follow these pre-treatment instructions may result in the need to reschedule your appointment or could increase your risk of complications.

 

After Care Instructions: Fractional CO2 Laser

 

Proper aftercare is crucial for achieving the best results from your Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment and minimizing the risk of complications. Please read and follow these instructions carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact our office at 808-261-1121. 

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• Appearance & Sensation: Expect the treated area to be red, swollen, and feel warm, similar to a moderate to severe sunburn. You may experience pinpoint bleeding, oozing, or a "grid" pattern from the laser. These are normal reactions.

• Cool Compresses: Apply cool compresses (e.g., a soft cloth soaked in ice water, or gel packs wrapped in a soft cloth) to the treated area for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day for the first 1-2 days. This will help reduce swelling and discomfort. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.

• Pain Management: You may take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) as directed. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin if possible, as they can increase bruising, unless prescribed by Dr. Schaefer or your primary physician.

• Keep Head Elevated: When resting or sleeping, use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated. This will help minimize swelling, especially if the face was treated.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which aids in the healing process.

• Gentle Cleansing:

  • Starting the evening of your treatment or the next morning.  Gently cleanse the treated area 2-3 times a day with a mild, non-irritating cleanser (e.g., Cetaphil®, CeraVe® Gentle Cleanse) and lukewarm water. Use your fingertips only – do NOT use a washcloth, scrub, or exfoliating device. Pat dry very gently with a clean, soft towel.

• Moisturizer/Healing Ointment:

  • Apply a bland, hydrating moisturizer or a specific healing ointment (e.g., Aquaphor®, CeraVe® Healing Ointment) liberally and frequently to the treated area, especially after cleansing. Keeping the skin moist is crucial for healing and comfort. Reapply throughout the day as needed to prevent dryness.

• Apply cooled sheet mask for 20 min once or twice a day, 

• Avoid Irritants: Do not apply any products to the treated area that have not been approved by Dr. Schaefer, including makeup, exfoliants, retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or perfumed products.

 

DAYS 3-7 (AND ONWARD UNTIL HEALED):

• Healing Process: Your skin will likely feel very dry, tight, and may begin to peel, flake, or develop a "bronzed" appearance or fine coffee-ground-like crusting. DO NOT PICK, SCRATCH, RUB, OR PEEL THE SKIN. Allow it to shed naturally. Picking can lead to scarring, infection, or pigmentation problems.

• Continued Cleansing & Moisturizing: Continue gentle cleansing and liberal application of moisturizer/healing ointment as described above.

• Sun Protection (CRUCIAL):

  • Strict sun avoidance is mandatory. The newly treated skin is extremely sensitive to sunlight and prone to hyperpigmentation (darkening).

  • Avoid direct sun exposure completely for at least 1-2 weeks, or until the skin is fully healed.

  • Once the skin is no longer raw or oozing (usually around day 5-7, but follow Dr. Schaefer’s guidance), begin applying a broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, even if indoors or on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.

  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors.

• Makeup: You may typically resume wearing mineral-based makeup once the skin is no longer peeling or raw, and feels comfortable (usually 5-10 days post-treatmen). Ensure makeup brushes are clean.

• Itching: Some itching is common as the skin heals. You may take an over-the-counter antihistamine (e.g., Benadryl®, Claritin®, Zyrtec®) if needed. Try not to scratch. Continue to apply moisturizer.

• Shaving (Men): Avoid shaving the treated area until the skin is no longer sensitive or raw (typically 5-7 days, or as advised). When you resume, use a clean razor and be very gentle.

 

ACTIVITIES TO AVOID DURING HEALING (Typically 1-2 weeks, or as advised):

• Strenuous Exercise: Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or flushing.

• Hot Environments: Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and very hot showers/baths.

• Swimming: Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean until the skin is fully healed to prevent infection.

• Irritating Products: Continue to avoid harsh skincare products (retinoids, exfoliants, etc.) for 2-4 weeks.

 

WHEN TO CONTACT OUR OFFICE - Call 808-261-1121 if you experience:

• Signs of infection: Increasing redness, warmth, pain, swelling, pus-like discharge, or fever.

• Severe or worsening pain not relieved by recommended measures.

• Blistering (beyond very fine, expected pinpoint crusting).

• Suspected allergic reaction to any product.

• Any other concerns or unexpected reactions.

 

LONG-TERM CARE & RESULTS:

• Sun Protection: Continued diligent sun protection is essential to maintain your results and protect your skin.

• Results Timeline: Initial results may be visible once the initial healing phase is complete, but collagen remodeling and further improvements can continue for 3-6 months or longer. Multiple milder treatments may be needed for optimal results. 

• Initial redness will fade to pink, but skin can remain pink for several months.