Six important aftercare instructions following Fraxel laser skin treatments
Fraxel treatments work wonders by boosting collagen production, smoothing out skin texture, and addressing fine lines, acne scars, and pigmentation issues. But here's the secret to getting the best results: how you care for your skin afterward. The days following your laser treatment are critical to ensuring your skin heals beautifully and maintains those amazing, long-lasting results. Fortunately, the recommended aftercare process is not too complicated to follow. Dr. AmandaLloyd, our Board-Certified Dermatologist at the Skin and Vein Institute talks about six essential aftercare instructions to follow to keep your skin healthy and glowing after your first treatment session.
1. Stay hydrated, inside and out
Hydration is crucial for your skin after a Fraxel treatment. Your skin may feel dry or tight in the days following the procedure, so drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer multiple times a day. This can soothe any peeling or flaking that may occur as your skin regenerates.2. Protect yourself from the sun
Following a Fraxel treatment, your skin becomes highly sensitive to sunlight, so it’s important to avoid direct sun exposure for at least a week and consistently apply sunscreen. Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it regularly. Some great mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which protect your skin without irritating it. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses outdoors is also recommended.3. Be gentle with the skin
Resist the temptation to scrub, rub, or exfoliate your skin. Fraxel works by encouraging your skin to regenerate, so you may experience flaking or peeling. This is perfectly normal! However, during this time, stick to a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh products like scrubs, acids, and retinoids. Your skin needs time to heal, and these harsher products can disrupt the process.4. Avoid overheating the skin
For approximately a week post-treatment, avoid activities that can overheat your skin. This includes hot showers, saunas, and vigorous exercise. Excessive heat can cause inflammation and prolong the healing process. Instead, stick to cooler, relaxing activities.
5. Avoid any cosmetics
Your makeup can wait! For the first few days, usually the first five days, we recommend skipping the foundation, concealer, and anything else that could clog your pores or irritate your healing skin. Once you do reintroduce cosmetic products, make sure your brushes are clean, and consider using mineral makeup for a lighter, more skin-friendly option.6. Trust in the healing process
Remember that good things take time. Your skin may appear textured, red, or flaky initially, but this is all part of the healing process. Be patient and consistent with your aftercare routine. Within a week or two, you’ll start to see those fabulous results you deserve!Schedule an appointment today for Fraxel laser treatments!
If you are unsure about any step in your aftercare routine or want personalized recommendations, Dr. AmandaLloyd at the Skin and Vein Institute is here to help! As a Board-Certified Dermatologist, she specializes in assisting patients in achieving radiant, healthy skin with the latest treatments and expert care. Schedule your visit today by calling (760) 452-2080 or reaching us at [email protected].Related Articles
- Seven benefits of Fraxel laser skin treatment at the Skin and Vein Institute
- The Fraxel Advanced Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedure
- Fraxel for youthful, rejuvenated skin
- Patients in Encinitas, CA ask, "What is the cost & benefit of Fraxel Laser Treatment?
- Six important aftercare instructions following Fraxel laser skin treatments
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Sarah B.
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Dr. Lloyd is amazing! She was able to get my skin better than it has ever looked. Her injectables are the best I have ever had and totally natural. So glad I found her!
Larissa S.
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I had the absolute best experience with Dr. Lloyd and her team. Dr Lloyd is so smart and skilled and her team was very professional, informative and kind. She and her team were also the sweetest to follow up with me the next day and a few after that. Top notch, cant recommend more!
Dr. Nancy
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The Skin & Vein Institute has everything that you will need when considering an excellent skin care facility. They have a fabulous spa-like office suite where you can watch videos on how-to take the best care of your skin, you can treat yourself to a cup of tea, or check out the new mini skin care items in the sample bowl!
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Meet Dr. Amanda Lloyd
Dr. Amanda Lloyd is a respected Board Certified Dermatologist based in Encinitas, CA, with over 14 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from UCLA Honors College and a medical degree from the University of Vermont College of Medicine. Dr. Lloyd completed her dermatology residency as chief resident at Baylor University Medical Center. She then was a fellow in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery after which she became board certified in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology. A Fellow of the American Society for Mohs Surgery, she is also a member of the AAD and ABVLM. An editor for JAMA Dermatology, Dr. Lloyd contributes to advancing dermatological knowledge. Her dedication to patient care and education underscores her trustworthiness and expertise.
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