Q-Switch Laser

- Limited activity to reduce excessive perspiration is advised as well as no hot tubs, steam, sauna, or excessively hot shower use for 24-48 hours. - Cool compresses may be used for comfort and the treated area should be cared for delicately for at least 12-24 hours. - Mineral makeup may be worn after 48 hours. - No use of exfoliants, AHA or BHA and Retinol or Retin-A (Vitamin A) containing products (these are commonly exfoliating cleansers, toners, scrubs, serums, or masks) for 7-14 days post treatment. - The use of the Aftercare kit is required for optimal healing, this will be applied immediately after the treatment and you ma re apply every 2-3 hours or as needed. Continue daily use for up to 14 days. Alternatively, Mild gentle cleansers, hyaluronic acid/hydrating or healing serums, moisturizer and SPF can be used daily Patients who may be prone to sensitivity, hayfever or allergies are encouraged to continue use of the YL Aftercare for up to 4 weeks until the skin returns to normal. - The use of SPF 30 or above applied daily is mandatory post treatment for 4 weeks. Reapplication is advised after 4-5 hours. The controlled damage in the epidermal layer reduces the skin’s natural defense mechanisms and may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and as a result, the treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change. Long Term commitment to sun safe practices and daily SPF 30 or above use is highly recommended for long term skin health and result maintenance. - Antihistamines and Anti Inflammatory may be used to assist in reducing and managing swelling, urticaria or itching post treatment. - Mild Exfoliation is suggested 7-14 days post treatment as advised by your practitioner to assist with the removal of micro crusting, exfoliation is to be gentle and not vigorous. Erythema (redness) and sensitivity in the area of treatment is expected to be strongly visible for several hours to several days and decreases with time, some mild pinkness can be visible for some patients for several weeks. - Oedema (swelling) of the skin in the treated area is expected. Severity of swelling will vary from patient to patient and can range from minimal to severe. Those prone asthma, allergies, increased sensitivities or taking certain medications may be more likely to experience significant swelling post treatment. Swelling is temporary and will subside within 1-7days. - Urticaria (itching) or hive-like appearance is also associated with the thermal energy affecting the surrounding skin. Antihistamines daily are recommended to manage. - Micro crusting, gridding or stamping will appear and can last days to several weeks according to the areas treated. This will initially look like little dots (sometimes brown or black) on the skin or have the texture of sandpaper. Slower shedding of micro crusts, gridding or sandpaper texture is noted in areas around the eyes, neck and decolletage but will subside with time. - Purpura (bruising) is seen when a blood vessel bursts which can occur but is usually rare. - Skin breakouts and purging of underlying congestion is common in those with oily or acne-prone skin. This does not require further treatment and will normalize 7-14 days post treatment. - A blister can form up to 48 hours after treatment. An antibiotic cream or ointment can be used. Other short term effects include bruising, superficial crusting, and discomfort. - Hyperpigmentation (browning) and hypopigmentation (lightening) have not been noted with the treatment however this is always a possibility with any energy-based treatment. Hyperpigmentation can be minimised by correct pre-treatment preparation and strict aftercare adherence. This is more common in certain skin types and in Fitzpatrick skin types IV-V is almost certain to occur after energy based treatments. This is temporary and improved with correct aftercare. - Infection is not usual after treatment, however, herpes simplex virus infections around the mouth can occur following treatments. This applies to both individuals with a past history of the virus or individuals