What skincare to avoid after laser?

Wanting glowing, smooth skin is an aspiration of many, but it can be hard to achieve alone. Through years of built-up dead skin cells, dirt, and other impurities, the skin can look dull, aged, and damaged. That is why many turn to laser skin treatments to help refresh their skin. Laser skin treatments are often performed to improve an individual’s aesthetic appearance. At V&P Laser Hair Removal and skin Care we offer various laser skin treatments to our patients from in and around Chicago, IL. We ensure that our patients get optimal results by giving them detailed instructions on how to care for their skin after the treatment.

There are some sacrifices to make after you get a laser hair removal treatment, and one of these sacrifices is to putting some of your favorite products on hold for a while.

Here’s a list of products from our technicians at V&P Laser Hair Removal & Skin Care to avoid after laser hair removal treatments.

Products to Avoid

• Exfoliating Scrubs and Acids: These can be way too harsh for your freshly lasered skin. While exfoliation is important for maintaining healthy skin, post-laser skin is sensitive and prone to irritation. Skip the scrubs and opt for gentle cleansers instead.
• Retinol and Retinoids: These powerhouse ingredients are known for boosting collagen production and cell turnover, but they can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Since sun exposure is a big no-no after laser, it’s best to give retinol a break until your skin heals completely.
• AHAs and BHAs: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are common exfoliating ingredients found in many skincare products. Similar to scrubs and retinoids, they can irritate your skin and make it sun-sensitive after a laser treatment.
• Hydroquinone: This ingredient is used to lighten dark spots, but it can also irritate your skin and make it more susceptible to sun damage. Avoid hydroquinone-containing products until your doctor gives you the green light.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: This acne-fighting ingredient can be drying and irritating, especially for post-laser skin. If you have acne, consult your dermatologist for alternative treatments during your laser recovery period.
• Fragrances and Perfumes: These can be surprisingly irritating, even for those without sensitive skin. After a laser procedure, your skin is even more prone to reacting negatively to fragrances. Opt for fragrance-free skincare products for a while.

Avoid Strenuous Activities

For the first couple of days following your laser treatment, avoid doing any strenuous activity that could cause sweating. This could irritate the skin and make inflammation worse.

It is important to remember how sensitive the skin is after treatments with lasers. Treat your skin well by keeping it hydrated, clean, and protected from harmful substances.