Laser treatments can deliver incredible results—brighter skin, smoother texture, reduced pigmentation, softened scars, and more. But your outcomes depend heavily on how you prepare your skin beforehand and how you care for it afterward.
Dr. Kappel shares everything you should do in the weeks before, day of, and weeks after your laser treatment to maximize results and reduce complications.
Why Preparation Matters
Different lasers treat different concerns—melasma, lentigines, acne scars, redness, fine lines, or texture. And because each device has its own treatment protocol, the right pre- and post-care helps:
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Enhance results
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Support faster healing
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Reduce inflammation
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Minimize post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
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Prevent complications like irritation or viral outbreaks
Always follow your provider’s instructions, as recommendations vary based on your skin type, history, and the laser being used.
1–2 Weeks Before Your Laser Treatment
✔️ Avoid Sun Exposure
UV exposure increases your risk of hyperpigmentation and interferes with how the laser interacts with the skin.
Avoid:
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Sunbathing
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Tanning beds
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Bronzers & self-tanners
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Outdoor activities without SPF
Skin should be completely free of artificial or natural tan.
✔️ Avoid Skin Trauma
For 1–2 weeks before treatment, avoid anything that disrupts the skin barrier:
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Waxing, threading, or plucking
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Microdermabrasion
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Chemical peels
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Abrasive facials
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Strong exfoliants
Keeping the barrier intact helps the skin tolerate laser energy better.
✔️ Decide Whether to Pause Retinoids or Accutane
Dr. Kappel explains:
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Board-certified dermatologists can safely treat patients who are on tretinoin, retinoids, or even Accutane.
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The decision depends on the dose, duration, skin condition, and type of laser.
Her general recommendation for safety:
👉 Discontinue vitamin A products about 1–2 weeks before treatment, especially with higher-dose Accutane or sensitive skin.
Always follow your provider’s guidance.
✔️ If You’re Treating Pigment (Melasma, Dark Spots, PIH)
Your provider may start you on a brightening agent such as hydroquinone 1–2 weeks prior—especially for Fitzpatrick 3–5 skin types.
Dr. Kappel’s practice approach:
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Pre-treatment hydroquinone is optional.
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Post-treatment brightening is more important.
More on that below.
✔️ Start Antiviral Medication If You’re Prone to Cold Sores
If you have two or more outbreaks per year, start antiviral prophylaxis (such as Valtrex) one week before treatment.
Laser-induced inflammation can trigger HSV reactivation—prevention is key.
✔️ Strengthen Your Skin Barrier
About one week out, begin using barrier-supporting serums such as:
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MDAIRE NMF Intense Barrier Repair Serum
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Elastin-supportive serums
These help minimize post-laser inflammation and speed healing.
✔️ Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment. Hydrated skin heals more efficiently.
The Day of Your Laser Treatment
✔️ Come With a Clean, Product-Free Face
Use a gentle, non-irritating cleanser such as Bio Cleanse 5.5 and avoid:
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Makeup
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Oils
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Active skincare
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Heavy creams
Light moisturizer + SPF is okay.
✔️ Avoid Germ Exposure Before the Laser
If you’re traveling or coming from work:
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Wear a clean mask
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Avoid touching your face
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Avoid resting your face on surfaces
Your skin will be more vulnerable afterward.
✔️ Bring Sun Protection
You’ll need it immediately after.
Bring:
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A wide-brim hat
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Clean sun shield
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Broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen
✔️ Prepare for Recovery
Consider bringing:
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A clean cold compress
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A gentle moisturizer
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A hydrating, non-active serum
These can help if swelling or redness appears quickly.
1–2 Weeks After Your Laser Treatment
✔️ Avoid All Sun Exposure
This is the most important rule after laser.
For at least 1–2 weeks:
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Avoid direct sunlight
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Wear SPF every single day
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Wear a hat outdoors
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Avoid outdoor workouts during peak UV hours
Darker skin tones and patients treating pigmentation must be especially cautious.
✔️ Use Gentle, Supportive Skincare
Use:
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Barrier-restorative serums
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Nourishing hydrators like NMF Hydrator
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Gentle cleansers (Bio Cleanse 5.5)
Avoid:
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Vitamin C
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Retinol
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Glycolic acid
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Scrubs
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Exfoliating brushes
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Picking at peeling skin
Let the skin exfoliate naturally.
✔️ Avoid Heat & Intense Activity
Heat can exacerbate swelling or hyperpigmentation.
Avoid for ~1 week:
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Hot showers
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Saunas & steam rooms
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Intense workouts
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Hot yoga
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Jacuzzis
✔️ Be Cautious With Occlusive Ointments
Some thick balms can clog pores and worsen breakouts. Use only what your provider recommends.
✔️ Avoid Alcohol & Smoking
They both impair healing. Avoid for at least one week before and after treatment.
✔️ Cold Compresses—Used Correctly
Cold compresses help with swelling, but:
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Use them sparingly
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Make sure they are clean
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Do not apply ice directly to the skin
Post-Laser Pigment Care (Melasma, Dark Spots, PIH)
Dr. Kappel often recommends starting hydroquinone or other brighteners one week after your treatment.
Use for 1–3 months to:
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Stabilize melanocytes
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Prevent recurrence
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Maintain brightness
Pigment naturally wants to return—maintenance matters.
Maintaining Your Results Long-Term
Expect your skin to naturally return toward baseline over time. To preserve results:
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Schedule maintenance laser treatments 1–2× yearly
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Use vitamin C and retinoids once cleared by your provider
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Protect your skin from the sun every single day
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Continue pigment suppression if needed
Consistency is the secret to long-lasting skin clarity and brightness.
Products Dr. Kappel Recommends Around Laser Treatments
While product selection varies by skin type and laser, these are staples in our practice:
Before & After (Barrier Support)
After Laser Once Cleared by Provider
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Hydroquinone or pigment suppressors (case-by-case)
Have Questions About Pre- or Post-Laser Care?
Our team at Stefani Kappel MD Dermatology can help customize a pre- and post-laser plan based on your:
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Skin type
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Treatment goals
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Laser modality
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History of pigment or acne
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Current skincare routine
