Dr. Mark Barlow MD, Plastic Surgeon in Houston, Clear Lake, Texas

General

• Redness, swelling and heat sensation are normal responses after the procedure and will last a few days (4 – 10 days). You should plan on about a day of redness per 10 microns. (For example: a 30 micron-peel = three days of redness).
• Redness, swelling and heat sensation are normal responses after the procedure and will last a few days (4 – 10 days). You should plan on about a day of redness per 10 microns. (For example: a 30 micron-peel = three days of redness).
• If swelling does occur, use a cold compress or crushed ice to bring the swelling down. Sleeping with your head elevated the first night after your procedure will also help to keep swelling to a minimum.
• The daily scheduled outlined here is to begin on day 2 with day 1 being the day AFTER your treatment. The day of treatment is NOT considered Day 1.

Cleansing

• On the second day after your treatment, Gently cleanse the skin twice a day with lukewarm water. Use your hands to gently apply the water and finish by patting dry with a soft cloth, taking care not to rub the treated area. Re-apply the post-laser ointment to treated area.
• On the third day after your treatment, gently cleanse the skin twice a day with lukewarm water and a lipid-free cleanser, such as Mary Kay™ 3-in-one Cleanser. Use your hands to gently apply the cleanser and water, finish by patting dry with a soft cloth, taking care NOT to rub the treated area.
• After cleansing your face, re-apply your post-laser ointment (i.e. Aquaphor), taking care to cover all treated areas. The ointment is providing a protective barrier that will keep the skin moist and provide protection to your skin from damaging pollutants as your skin heals. You may discontinue use of the ointment once your face is no longer sensitive or red.
• Be sure to wash your hair behind you when showering to avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area.
• Peeling and flaking generally begin to occur 48-72 hours after your procedure. REMEMBER: DO NOT PICK at the skin or use any harsh scrubs to "speed up" the peeling process. Instead washing more frequently will help promote the peeling process.
• Once your face is no longer sensitive or red to the touch, you may discontinue use of the post-laser ointment. You should then begin using a good moisturizing cream, to help re-hydrate your skin. Dr. Barlow recommends Mary Kay™ Time Wise Age Fighting Moisturizer, Mary Kay™ Oil Free Hydrating Gel, or Mary Kay™ Intense Moisturizer.
• Seven to ten days after your procedure date, a light microdermabrasion product, such as the Mary Kay™ MicrodermAbrasion System may be used to help remove any remaining peeling or flaking skin. Following with a re-hydrating moisturizer, such as Mary Kay™ Intense Moisturizer.
• Consult with our estheticians for microdermabrasion.

Additional Notes

• In the event that cold sores are frequent occurrences for you, taking an anti-viral medication such as Valtrex is recommended, please discuss this issue with Dr. Barlow.
• You should try to avoid direct sunlight following the procedure and during the healing process. However, if you must be in the sun for ANY length of time, you should wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. The proper application is to first apply the post-laser ointment followed by the sunscreen. Sunscreens contain harsh chemicals that may irritate the healing skin.
• MicroLaserPeel™ may be repeated every 8 weeks until the desired effect is achieved.
• A good skin care program will maximize the lasting benefits of this treatment. Your skin will be fully hydrated and look its best as soon as two (2) weeks post-procedure.
• Patients will be furnished with a Clinical-Strength Microdermabrasion set on the day of their peel, compliments of Dr. Barlow.