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    What You Need to Know Before and After Aviclear™ Treatment

    Posted on June 4, 2024
    by Beacon Derm
    in

    For those who suffer from mild to severe acne, AviClear™ can be an excellent solution. As an FDA-approved laser treatment, it can significantly improve your skin as a noninvasive treatment for numerous conditions.

    To get the best results, consider a few AviClear™ pre and post-care steps. Keep in mind that when you meet with our team, we will provide you with more specific insight into what you can expect from your AviClear™ appointment at Beacon Dermatology in Calgary and how to care for your skin before and after treatment.

    How to Prepare for Your AviClear™ Treatment

    Prior to your appointment, avoid the use of any type of skin irritant (for at least three days prior). This includes any products that contain ingredients such as:

    • Tretinoin
    • Retinol
    • Glycolic or salicylic acids
    • Astringents
    • Vitamin C or ascorbic acid
    • Benzoyl peroxide

    For those with long facial hair, it’s best to shave so that most of the hair is minimized. If you have any type of cold sore or other skin infection, you may need to take medication to clear them before you get AviClear™ treatment.

    Make sure you keep your provider up to date on the medications you are taking. Your provider may also recommend taking an over-the-counter pain medication before your appointment.

    What Does an AviClear™ Treatment Session Look Like at Beacon Dermatology?

    You will know what to expect from AviClear™ every step of the way, as your provider will tell you what is happening at all times. There are several steps to this process, which take about one hour or so. It will include:

    • Performing a deep cleanse to remove all traces of oil and sebum. Since the laser is attracted to water, your face will be layered with wet gauze to allow the water to penetrate into the skin.
    • A device will be moved over your skin. It produces a light and a low level of heat to the area.
    • Your provider will work over the target area for a few minutes. You’ll notice pulsing lights as they do.

    The process only takes a few minutes for each area. We offer Penthrox Inhalant Analgesic to help with comfort. Some patients also find T3 helps. If you have any concerns during the process, make sure to let your provider know.

    AviClear™ Aftercare

    AviClear™ aftercare is important. What occurs now can impact the way you feel and the outcome you have. Here’s what to expect.

    Immediately After the Treatment

    Once we complete the procedure, a compress is applied over the top of the treatment area. This helps to cool the skin down and, as a result, reduces the amount of swelling and reddening you may have.

    A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunblock is then applied to your skin. Avoid direct sunlight. Your provider will offer insight into any additional steps to take to protect your skin.

    Care at Home

    The next day, you’ll need to start treating your skin. This includes using a gentle soap and an oil-free moisturizer applied at least twice a day for the next three days. After that, you can go back to your normal skincare.

    You can use makeup the day after your treatment. Make sure you continue to apply UVA/UVB 30+ SPF sunblock to your skin every day. You can expect to see some redness in the treatment area the next day. Some people also see drying out of the skin for up to 4 weeks after treatment.

    There are a few other warnings to consider:

    • Avoid hot tubs or saunas for at least 3 days.
    • Don’t engage in strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours after treatment.
    • Avoid using any skin irritants for at least 3 days.

    Long-Term Aftercare

    Maintain a healthy skin care regimen as much as possible. It’s always a good idea to use sunscreen to block any additional damage to your skin.

    Avoid any irritants to your skin for the next two weeks. That includes waxing, chemical peels, esthetic treatments, and depilatories. This will help give your skin the time to heal.

    If you develop any irritation, blisters, or other signs of skin damage, contact your provider immediately. Avoid using topical treatments on these areas until your provider tells you what to do.

    When Will I See the Results?

    Many people see significant improvement after one or two treatments. Most people see the best results, though, after a third treatment. You’ll continue to see those benefits for 6 to 18 months after treatment. That may mean fewer fine lines and wrinkles, improved acne, and improved skin discolouration. It is important to note that "purging" is very common. As your skin heals, the sebum deep within it may be pushed out. Some patients report getting slightly worse before they see improvement.

    Schedule Your Consultation

    Following these AviClear™ pre and post-care instructions can help you get the results you want and need. Keep in mind there's very little downtime, and most people don't suffer pain.

    Are you ready to get started? Schedule an appointment with Beacon Dermatology now to find out how this treatment can give you a brand-new look.

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