Daily Archives: June 6, 2021

How to Prepare Your Skin for Acne Scar Laser Treatments

Laser treatment is presently one of the best procedures for treating acne scars and improving the appearance of the skin.

If you live in Singapore, you likely may have come across ads that show just how effective the procedure is and the results it promises.

What most people don’t talk about is the side effects of the treatment. Of course, the treatment is 100% safe, painless, and effective, but it isn’t risk-free.

Whether you have signed up for Non-ablative or Ablative laser treatment, there is a chance that you may experience some side effects after the treatment. The odds of experiencing these side effects increase exponentially if you don’t follow the pre-and post-care instructions you are given.

Risks and side effects of laser treatment

Swelling, itching, and Redness

The treated area may become red, itchy, or even swollen after the treatment. The intensity of the redness depends on the nature of your skin and skin condition (rosacea) you have. On average, it may take up to a few days for the swelling and redness to subside.

Scarring

There is a slight risk that Ablative lasers can cause permanent scarring.

Acne

Do you know that the products you use after a laser treatment procedure can affect your results? Applying thick creams on the treated area can worsen your acne problem. It may cause the development of milia (tiny white bumps) on the scarred area.

Skin color

Ablative laser resurfacing can cause the treated area to become lighter or darker than it was before the procedure. Permanent change in color skin is prevalent among people with a darker skin tone. This is one reason why dermatologists don’t recommend the procedure for people with a dark skin tone.

Infection

Laser treatment can cause fungal, bacterial, and even viral infections. Herpes virus, which causes cold sores, is one of the most common infections to spring up after the treatment.

Ectropion

If the treatment is done very close to the lower eyelid, there is a slim chance that the laser will cause the eyelid toturn in out.

Keep in mind that the above side effects may subside after a couple of days or weeks. If they don’t, you should consult your dermatologist.

How to prepare your skin

To ensure that you have a pleasant experience during your laser treatment, there are a few things you mustdo and avoidbefore the day of your appointment. Below are a few of them.

Smoking             

If you smoke, your dermatologist will ask you to stop smoking at least two weeks before and after your treatment. This will help ensure that no complications arise during the procedure and that you heal well.

Take certain medications

If you have a history of herpes infection, you may be required to take antiviral medication before and after your treatment. The medication will help prevent any infection from springing up.

Make arrangements for a ride home

As you likely know, laser treatment is non-invasive and can be done within an hour or two. However, if you are going to be sedated during the procedure, perhaps because of the severity of your acne scar, you should make an arrangement for someone to take you home after the treatment.

Final note

As pointed out above, laser treatment isn’t a risk-free procedure. Complications may arise, especially if you don’t follow the pre-treatment instructions that are given to you. Read more here on acne scar laser treatment procedures available in Singapore.