After years of slathering on serums that make marginal improvements to stubborn sun damage and acne scars, you might be ready to level up with in-office laser treatments. Lasers are powerful aesthetic technologies, but the magic isn’t just in the fancy machines — it’s also in how you treat your skin before and after. The steps you take at home can make the difference between “meh” results and “Wow, is that really my skin?” transformation.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know before and after to ensure beautiful healing and truly radiant results.
Playing the Long Game: 2-4 Weeks Before
Proper preparation for laser skin resurfacing begins weeks before your treatment. These early steps impact your safety, your comfort during the procedure and your final results.
Consultation
You’ll start with a thorough consultation at one of our locations in Nyack or Goshen. During this appointment, we’ll go over your medical history, especially any skin conditions like cold sores or eczema that might affect your treatment. We’ll also examine your skin to choose the appropriate laser type and settings, and take photos to track your progress. You’ll leave with all your questions answered and detailed instructions on how to prepare for a laser treatment.
Medication and Supplement Adjustments
You may need to temporarily change your medications and supplements. We typically recommend avoiding blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen and certain supplements for at least one week to reduce bruising. We also suggest that you stop using retinoids seven to 10 days before your appointment because they can increase skin sensitivity.
If you have a history of cold sores, let us know, as you may benefit from preventative antiviral medication.
Sun Protection
This is absolutely essential: minimize sun exposure before your treatment. Tanned or sunburned skin increases your risk of complications, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation and scarring.
For at least two weeks pre-appointment, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even when it’s cloudy. Wear hats and seek shade when outdoors, and completely avoid tanning beds and self-tanners. If you do get sunburned, we’ll need to reschedule your treatment.
Skincare Routine
Switch to gentle, non-irritating cleansers and moisturizers that won’t sensitize your skin. Stop using exfoliating products, including glycolic acid, salicylic acid and physical scrubs.
If recommended by your provider, start using products containing ingredients like hydroquinone to prepare your skin and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is especially important if you have a darker skin tone.
Final Prep Steps: Days Before and Day-Of
As your laser treatment approaches, follow these do’s and don’ts to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Don’t
Don’t consume alcohol in the 48-72 hours before your appointment, as it can increase sensitivity and redness. Avoid smoking because it impairs healing and can affect your results. Don’t undergo any hair removal treatments like waxing, threading or depilatory creams that might irritate your skin before the procedure.
Do
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser the day of your appointment. Please arrive with clean skin, free from makeup, lotions, creams, perfumes or any other products. Remove jewelry that might get in the way of the treatment area. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to wear after the treatment.
Immediate Aftercare: First 48 Hours
The minutes and days following your treatment are when your skin is most receptive to healing support and most vulnerable to damage.
Managing Common Side Effects
Most clients experience:
- A warm sensation that gradually subsides
- Mild redness that improves within hours or days
- Slight sensitivity
To stay comfortable:
- Use cool compresses for 10-15 minutes if needed
- Avoid hot showers, saunas or anything that could heat your skin
- Skip strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
Cleansing
Keeping your skin clean supports healing and prevents infection:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face
- Follow your provider’s specific instructions for cleansing, which may involve using only water or a very gentle cleanser
- Pat—never rub—your skin dry with a clean, soft towel
- Use clean pillowcases
Moisturizing
Proper hydration supports healing and reduces discomfort:
- Apply the recommended healing ointment or moisturizer as directed, usually several times daily
- Be generous with application; your skin should never feel tight or dry
What to Avoid
During the first 48 hours, steer clear of:
- Heat sources including hot showers, saunas and heating pads
- Strenuous exercise that increases blood flow and sweating
- Picking, scratching or rubbing your skin
- Products containing active ingredients like retinoids or acids
- All sun exposure, even through windows
Optimizing Your Results: Weeks 1-2
This phase is about supporting your skin as it heals and regenerates. These next steps will help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Normal Healing vs. Complications
While some discomfort or irritation is normal after a laser treatment, be alert for signs that warrant medical attention.
Normal healing may include:
- Redness that gradually fades
- Mild swelling that improves daily
- Itching as new skin forms
- Flaking and peeling
Contact us if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Significant swelling that doesn’t improve
- Oozing, pus or signs of infection
- Unusual changes in skin color
Skincare Routine
Continue using gentle cleansers, moisturizers and sunscreens. Avoid products containing active ingredients like retinoids, acids or vitamin C until your provider gives you the green light to reintroduce them. Consider using products specially formulated for post-procedure skin, which may be available for purchase at Bella Tu Med Spa.
Sun Protection
Sun protection is even more critical after your laser treatment. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily without fail, and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Try to avoid direct sun exposure completely for at least a week post-treatment when your skin is more susceptible to damage. When you do go outside, add an extra layer of protection with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and protective clothing.
You’re Ready for Laser Skin Resurfacing!
We hope this guide has prepared you for what to expect before and after your laser skin resurfacing treatment at Bella Tu Med Spa. By following these pre- and post-care tips, you’ll maximize your results and enjoy a smoother, more radiant complexion with minimal downtime.
Every client’s skin is unique, and our team is here to provide personalized guidance to ensure your comfort and success. If you have any questions leading up to your appointment or during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Book your appointment and join the many satisfied clients in Rockland County who trust Bella Tu Med Spa for their skincare needs.
