What Should I Do to Prepare for Treatment?
Patients that are undergoing treatment with the Exceed system should be sure to:
- Discontinue anticoagulant therapy, Aspirin, or high–dose nonsteroidal anti–inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for 14 days prior to treatment.
- If you have a history of cold sores, please inform your Provider, as you may need to be pretreated with an antiviral medication.
- Discontinue topical retinoids or other skin irritants for a minimum of 3-5 days prior to treatment.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use SPF 50.
What Can I Expect After Treatment?
Immediately post treatment, the localized pin-point bleeding should subside within 5-10 minutes of treatment. Pain or discomfort may occur with gradual cessation following the treatment. Transient mild to moderate erythema (redness) and edema (swelling) can last for up to 6 days. Other inflammatory responses such as itching, warming, flaking or peeling can occur and will typically subsides within 8 days of treatment.
Pre-Treatment Care
- Sun Protection: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds for 5-7 days prior to treatment. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher to protect your skin from the sun. Remember to reapply every two hours and wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
- Self Tanners: The use of self-tanning skin products must be discontinued two weeks before treatment. Any residual self- tanner should be removed prior to treatment.
- Skincare Products: Do not use any retinoids, exfoliants, or harsh skincare products on the treatment area for at least 5 days before the treatment.
- Oral Medications: Inform your laser professional about any oral medications you are taking, especially those known to cause photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to the sun).
- Discontinue anticoagulant therapy, aspirin, or high doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) a minimum of 14 days prior to treatment.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated in the days leading up to your treatment to support your skin’s healing process.
- Makeup: Arrive at the appointment with clean, makeup-free skin.
- Skin Condition: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any active skin infections or outbreaks, as the treatment may need to be rescheduled to ensure optimal results. Note: Those with a history of cold sores should receive acyclovir prior to treatment.
- Avoid alcohol: Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the treatment to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Post-Treatment Care
For the first week and until completely healed, cleanse the treatment area with a gentle cleanser and pat dry, do not rub. Avoid washcloths, harsh irritants, and scrubs until the treated area is completely healed. The treated area should be kept as hydrated as possible for one week post-treatment. Avoid excessive sun exposure to the treatment area and gently pat in a sunblock of at least SPF 50 or higher at all times for at least one month following the procedure. Please don’t pick the treated area. It is imperative to let the area heal on its own. If the area is picked at and further interruption of the epidermal layer occurs, this can increase the risk of infection, PIH, and other post-procedure complications.
