What You Need to Know Before Going For a Photofacial?

Photofacial is fast becoming popular again not just in laser clinics in Singapore but also in laser clinics worldwide, because it has proven to be effective, safe and non-invasive hyperpigmentation treatment. While this procedure is applicable to all skin types of all skin tone, precautionary measures are still needed before undergoing the treatment.

If you have open wounds or lesions, or recent surgery, on the area you want to get treated, you will have to postpone the treatment for pigmentation at a later time. You also should not have had radiation or chemotherapy – or Accutane (used to treat nodular acne) – in the past 12 months. Most important, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, then photofacial for melasma removal will have to be delayed.

Once you and your skin care specialist have set a date for your photofacial treatment, you will need to make preparations to ensure you get the best possible outcome, and avoid side effects.

Avoid the sun

If you are planning to get a tan, you will need to skip sunbathing as tanned skin puts you at higher risk of a burn. Remember, photofacial uses Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), and that energy is absorbed by the melanin in your skin, so getting tanned interferes with the effectiveness of the treatment. Seek the shade for at least two weeks before heading for your laser pigmentation treatment.

Wear sunscreen

Sun spot removal can be done on hands, and if this is the area you want treated, you will need to regularly apply broad-spectrum sun protection on them, or on any exposed area. Choose sunscreen with broad spectrum (protection from UVA and UVB) and SPF 30 or higher.

Stop smoking

You have one less thing to worry about if you are not smoking. But if you are, you will need to quit smoking at least six weeks prior to your trip to an aesthetic laser clinic. Smoking interferes with the healing of your skin, and by avoiding it for a sufficient time before your age spot removal procedure; you will encourage better healing afterwards.

Refrain from applying retinoids

Retinoids make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which is why dermatologists often recommend applying it at night. Since your skin will be receiving pulses of light, it is a good idea to avoid products that increase your skin’s sensitivity.