Wise Skin Wednesday: Prepping for Your Laser Treatment

Wise Skin Wednesday: Prepping for Your Laser Treatment

Discover how to prepare for facial laser treatments at Tailored to You for a smoother treatment experience and optimal results.

One of the questions we hear most often is, "What should I do before my laser treatment?"

Whether you're coming in for Pico Facial Rejuvenation, Erbium, Phoenix CO₂, Pixel8 RF Microneedling, or another laser treatment, preparing your skin beforehand helps create the best environment for healing and results.

Every treatment is different, so your provider will always give you instructions specific to your appointment. However, these are some of the most common recommendations we discuss with our patients.

1. Stay Out of the Sun & Skip the Self-Tanner

One of the most important things you can do before your laser treatment is protect your skin from unnecessary UV exposure.

Avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning beds, sunburns, and self-tanner leading up to your appointment. While self-tanner doesn't expose your skin to UV rays, it can affect your provider's ability to accurately evaluate your skin tone and treatment area. Sunburned or recently tanned skin can also be more sensitive, which may increase the risk of unwanted side effects.

Wearing sunscreen every day is one of the easiest ways to protect your skin before and after treatment. If you've had significant sun exposure or recently used self-tanner, let your provider know before your appointment. Depending on the treatment and timing, we may recommend waiting until your skin is ready.

2. Pause Certain Skincare Products

Some active ingredients can make your skin more sensitive before a laser treatment.

Depending on your procedure, your provider may ask you to temporarily stop using products that contain:

• Retinol or Retin-A
• Prescription retinoids
• Glycolic acid
• Salicylic acid
• Other exfoliating acids
• Physical scrubs

Always follow the timeline your provider gives you, as it can vary depending on the treatment.

3. Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Healthy, hydrated skin responds better to many treatments.

Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment and use a gentle moisturizer to support your skin barrier.

4. Skip Waxing and Aggressive Hair Removal

Avoid waxing, chemical depilatories, or aggressive exfoliation on the treatment area before your appointment.

These can leave your skin more sensitive than normal.

5. Arrive with Clean Skin

On the day of your appointment, come with clean skin whenever possible.

Skip makeup, lotions, perfumes, self-tanner, and heavy skincare products unless your provider tells you otherwise.

6. Share Any Changes in Your Health

Let your provider know if you've recently:

• Started a new medication
• Been on antibiotics
• Developed a cold sore
• Become pregnant
• Had significant sun exposure
• Experienced a skin irritation or rash

These details help us determine if it's best to proceed with treatment or adjust your plan.

7. Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Every laser works a little differently.

A Phoenix CO₂ treatment has different preparation and recovery than Pico Facial Rejuvenation or Pixel8 RF Microneedling. That's why your consultation is such an important part of the process.

If you're unsure about something, ask. We'd much rather answer questions beforehand than have you guessing at home.

The Best Results Start Before Your Appointment

Preparing your skin isn't complicated, but it can make a meaningful difference in your comfort, healing, and overall results.

Our goal is to make sure every patient feels informed and confident before treatment. We'll always walk you through what to expect, answer your questions, and provide instructions tailored to your specific procedure.

If you've been considering a laser treatment but aren't sure which one is right for you, stop by Tailored to You or give us a call. We'd be happy to help you find the treatment that best fits your skin and your goals.

We'll see you next week for another Wise Skin Wednesday!